During the holidays, there’s just something wonderful about a warm cup of eggnog.
This Maple Bourbon Eggnog is thick and creamy, and the pure maple syrup makes it just the right amount of sweet.
It’s the best thing to eat on a cold night, whether you’re by the fire or throwing a holiday party.
The bourbon gives it a grown-up touch, but don’t worry, I have a version for kids too! Let’s prepare this holiday staple together. You’ll be surprised at how simple it is!
Ingredients
- Four big eggs, with the whites and yolks separated
- 1/3 cup of pure maple syrup is preferable.
- Two cups of whole milk
- One cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg (plus some for decoration)
- 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 cup bourbon (optional; add more or less to taste)
- A little salt
- Cinnamon sticks (optional for garnish)
Tools Needed
- A medium saucepan
- Bowls for mixing
- Whisk
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Cups and spoons for measuring
- Fine-mesh sieve (optional, for added smoothness)
Instructions
- Put the milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a little salt in a medium-sized pot. Stir it every now and then over medium-low heat until it is heated but not boiling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are smooth and a little pale. Very slowly add the warm milk mixture while constantly whisking to temper the eggs. After mixing, put the mixture back in the saucepan and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring all the time, until it thickens a little.
- Use an electric hand mixer to whip the egg whites in a another bowl until soft peaks form. For a light and fluffy texture, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the warm custard mixture.
- If you’re using it, mix in the bourbon. Let the eggnog cool down a bit, then put it in the fridge for at least two hours to chill.
- Pour the cold eggnog into holiday glasses, top with nutmeg, and add a cinnamon stick as a garnish. Cheers!
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh eggs for the creamiest, fluffiest eggnog.
- Controlling the Temperature: When you temper the eggs, pour the hot milk mixture in slowly so the eggs don’t scramble.
- Whisk It Well: Beating the egg whites until they are frothy makes the eggnog light and airy.
- Change the sweetness: Do you want it sweeter? Add a little more maple syrup to taste.
- Skip the bourbon for a family-friendly version that everyone can enjoy!
- No bourbon? Instead of rum or brandy, try spiced rum or brandy, or leave it out altogether.
- No lactose? For a variation without dairy, use almond milk and coconut cream.
- Want more flavor? A little bit of ground cloves or a dash of almond extract will do.
Storage & Serving Tips
Eggnog tastes nicer after it has been in the fridge for a day. Make it the night before your event so that the flavors can mix well. Before serving, just give it a whisk.
You may keep leftover eggnog in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Before serving it again, whisk it well because it might have separated a little.
Let’s finish it up!
This is Maple Bourbon Eggnog, which is both tasty and festive. This recipe is sure to make you and your loved ones happy, whether you make it for yourself or share it with them. Try it out and tell me how it went in the comments! Did you make the version for kids or add your own twist? I can’t wait to hear about it! To warm nights and tasty goodies! 🎄