2cupsWhole Milkor coconut milk for dairy-free option
1cupHeavy Creamor full-fat coconut cream for dairy-free
1/3cupPure Maple Syrupor 1/4 cup sugar, adjust to taste
1/4teaspoonPure Vanilla Extract
1/4teaspoonGround Nutmegfreshly grated preferred
1/8teaspoonGround Cinnamon
1pinchSea Salt
4Large Egg Yolkspasteurized eggs recommended for safety
2Large Egg Whitespasteurized, for optional whipped topping
1pinchGround Nutmegfor dusting
4Cinnamon Sticksoptional, for stirring
Instructions
In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine milk, cream, half the maple syrup (about 3 tablespoons), vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 160°F (71°C) and is steaming but not boiling.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks with remaining maple syrup until pale and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes with electric mixer on medium speed.
Remove hot milk mixture from heat. Slowly drizzle about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
Continue adding hot milk in a thin stream, whisking continuously, until all milk is incorporated into the egg mixture.
Pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan and return to medium-low heat. Stir constantly with whisk until mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, reaching 160°F (71°C). Do not let it boil or eggs will scramble.
Immediately strain the eggnog through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any lumps. Cover with plastic wrap directly touching surface to prevent skin formation.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled. Stir before serving and adjust sweetness if needed.
Optional: Beat egg whites to soft peaks and gently fold into chilled eggnog for extra richness. Serve in chilled glasses with a dusting of nutmeg and cinnamon stick stirrers.
Notes
FOOD SAFETY:
Use pasteurized eggs when possible, especially for vulnerable groups (children, pregnant women, elderly, immunocompromised). Heat mixture to 160°F (71°C) to ensure safety.TEMPERING TIPS:
Add hot milk very slowly to eggs while whisking constantly. If mixture curdles, strain through fine-mesh sieve and whisk vigorously, or blend briefly to smooth.STORAGE:
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving as separation is natural. Do not freeze as texture will change.SCALING:
Easily double recipe for larger gatherings. Use 500ml (2 cups) = 473ml metric conversion for international users.MAKE-AHEAD:
Best made day before serving to allow flavors to meld. Taste and adjust spices before serving as they intensify overnight.