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Bourbon Eggnog: Quick Homemade Recipe with Fresh Nutmeg

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This quick and easy bourbon eggnog comes together in under ten minutes with simple ingredients like eggs, milk, cream, sugar, bourbon, and fresh nutmeg. It’s creamy, perfectly spiced, and far superior to store-bought versions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups bourbon (such as Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace)
  • 1 whole nutmeg, for grating fresh
  • Optional: cinnamon sticks, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish

Instructions

  1. Whisk the eggs and sugar together in a large mixing bowl for about 2 minutes until pale yellow and slightly thick (ribbon stage). Alternatively, pulse in a blender 4-5 times on low.
  2. Add the milk and heavy cream. Whisk or blend until fully combined (about 15 seconds in a blender).
  3. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Whisk or pulse to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice.
  4. Add 1 cup of bourbon and whisk gently. Taste and add more bourbon in 1/4 cup increments if desired (up to 1 1/2 cups total).
  5. Pour into a pitcher or jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and texture to thicken.
  6. When ready to serve, pour eggnog into cups or mugs. Grate fresh nutmeg directly over each serving (about 4-5 passes with a microplane). Stir lightly or leave floating.
  7. Optional: Top with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.

Notes

For egg safety, use pasteurized eggs or gently heat the eggnog base to 160°F on the stove, then cool before adding bourbon. For a dairy-free version, substitute oat milk and coconut cream. Bourbon can be replaced with rye whiskey or brandy. Eggnog keeps in the fridge for 3-5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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