Go Back

Classic Non-Alcoholic Eggnog

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Beverage
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Medium Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
  • Wire whisk
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Instant-Read Thermometer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric Hand Mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Whole Milk or coconut milk for dairy-free option
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream or full-fat coconut cream for dairy-free
  • 1/3 cup Pure Maple Syrup or 1/4 cup sugar, adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg freshly grated preferred
  • 1/8 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 pinch Sea Salt
  • 4 Large Egg Yolks pasteurized eggs recommended for safety
  • 2 Large Egg Whites pasteurized, for optional whipped topping
  • 1 pinch Ground Nutmeg for dusting
  • 4 Cinnamon Sticks optional, 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.

shelfrecipes.com