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Party-Perfect Bourbon Eggnog with Fresh Nutmeg

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This creamy, spiced bourbon eggnog with fresh nutmeg is the result of obsessive testing and late-night tasting sessions. It’s the kind of drink that makes your guests close their eyes after the first sip, perfect for turning a simple gathering into something memorable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large eggs, separated (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups bourbon (Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • Fresh nutmeg for grating

Instructions

  1. Separate the eggs. Place yolks in a large mixing bowl and whites in another. Ensure no yolk gets into the whites.
  2. Whisk the yolks with 1/2 cup sugar for 2-3 minutes until pale yellow and thick (ribbon stage).
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk, heavy cream, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium-low until steaming but not boiling (small bubbles around edges).
  4. Temper the eggs: Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of hot milk mixture into egg yolks while whisking constantly. Then slowly pour egg mixture back into saucepan with remaining milk, whisking continuously.
  5. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Pour mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to catch any cooked egg bits.
  7. Let cool for 10 minutes, then stir in bourbon and vanilla extract.
  8. Whip egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form (3-4 minutes with mixer).
  9. Gently fold whipped egg whites into eggnog mixture until just combined with no white streaks.
  10. Pour into a pitcher or jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  11. Serve chilled, topped with freshly grated nutmeg.

Notes

The overnight rest is non-negotiable for best flavor. Room temperature eggs work best. Watch heat carefully to avoid curdling. For non-alcoholic version, omit bourbon and add extra cup of milk. For dairy-free, use full-fat oat milk and coconut cream. Eggnog keeps up to 5 days in fridge and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon eggnog, homemade eggnog, holiday drink, party drink, eggnog recipe, fresh nutmeg, Christmas drink

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/party-perfect-bourbon-eggnog-with-fresh-nutmeg-50-characters/