Homemade Eggnog for the Holidays

There’s something undeniably festive about a glass of eggnog during the holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or cozying up by the fire, this creamy, spiced drink is a must-have. And the best part? This recipe is versatile enough to suit everyone at the table—whether you prefer traditional dairy or dairy-free options.

Let us guide you through the surprisingly simple process of tempering egg yolks for a perfectly creamy and sweetened eggnog that’s full of holiday cheer.

Ingredients for Homemade Eggnog

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this festive favorite:

• 6 medjool dates (soaked in boiling water for 10 minutes to soften)

• 1.5 cups whole milk (or your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk)

• 1.5 cups heavy cream (or non-dairy half and half)

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ⅛ tsp salt

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 6 Chino Valley Ranchers Humane Harvest Egg Yolks (save the egg whites for a pumpkin apple cocktail or meringue!)

• ¼ cup sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blend and Heat the Base:

• In a blender, combine the milk and pitted, soaked dates. Blend until smooth.

• Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a medium saucepan. Add the heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and cinnamon stick.

• Heat the mixture over medium heat until it’s hot, but avoid bringing it to a boil.

2. Temper the Egg Yolks:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar.

• Slowly add the hot milk mixture to the yolks, one spoonful at a time, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling. Repeat this process 8–10 times to temper the yolks.

3. Combine and Heat:

• Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.

• Heat over medium-low, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly. Do not boil!

4. Cool and Chill:

• Pour the eggnog into a glass container and let it cool to room temperature.

• Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. The eggnog will thicken as it cools.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or an extra dash of nutmeg.

• For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon, dark rum, or brandy.

Why Homemade Eggnog?

Making eggnog from scratch not only gives you control over the ingredients but also delivers a freshness that store-bought options can’t compete with. Plus, it’s a great way to use our Humane Harvest Eggs, ensuring your eggnog is rich, creamy, and made with the highest quality ingredients from happy, pasture-raised hens.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Tempering: Tempering the egg yolks ensures they mix smoothly into the milk without scrambling.

• Choose Your Sweetener: Medjool dates provide natural sweetness, but you can adjust to your preference with more or less sugar.

• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy milk and cream with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a delicious non-dairy version.

Whether you’re sipping this creamy delight by the tree or serving it up at a holiday party, we’d love to see your eggnog moments. Tag us @chinovalleyranchers and share the holiday cheer!