Homemade Eggnog
A classic holiday treat made with local dairy and eggs for an even richer experience.
MAKES 6 cups
6 local eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups local whole milk
1 cup local heavy cream
1/2 to 1 1/2 cups bourbon, rum, cognac, or a mix (optional)
Freshly grated nutmeg, for serving
Separate the eggs, placing the yolks in a medium bowl and the whites in a large bowl. Cover the whites and refrigerate.
Whisk the yolks with the sugar by hand or with a mixer until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and a lemon-yellow color.
Whisk in the milk, cream, and liquor (if using) until combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. The more liquor you add, the longer it will keep — non-alcoholic eggnog should be consumed within 1 day; eggnog with 1/2 to 1 cup of liquor will keep for several days
Just before serving, whisk the egg whites in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer at high speed until they form stiff peaks.
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the eggnog base — this gives the eggnog a frothy, extra-creamy texture. Some of the egg whites will also float to the top, like cappuccino foam.
Transfer the eggnog to a pitcher or punch bowl. Top individual glasses with a grating of nutmeg over top.
RECIPE NOTES
This recipe contains raw eggs. Use very fresh, organic local eggs, if at all possible. Consuming raw or undercooked eggs can increase your risk for certain food-borne illnesses, especially if you have a medical condition.
Even richer eggnog: Play with the proportions of whole milk to cream, keeping 3 cups total dairy. Heavy cream will make your eggnog thicker and creamier. Boozy eggnog will also continue to thicken in the fridge as it ages.
Recipe adapted from thekitchn.com