Alright, gather ’round, folks, because we’re about to talk about eggnog. Not that sad, watery carton stuff you buy because you feel obligated, but the real deal. The kind of rich, creamy, homemade concoction that makes you wonder why you ever settled for less. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a winter hug, a festive treat, and honestly, an excuse to feel a little bit fancy without actually trying too hard. Trust me, your holiday season (and your taste buds) are about to get a serious upgrade.

Speaking of upgrades, there was one year I decided to be Martha Stewart and involve the kids in grating the nutmeg. “It’ll be fun!” I chirped, optimistically handing my then-five-year-old a microplane and a whole nutmeg. What followed was less “festive family bonding” and more “snowstorm in the kitchen,” as finely grated nutmeg (and a fair bit of actual skin, I suspect) rained down on every surface. My husband, ever the helpful one, walked in, surveyed the scene, and just said, “Looks like you spiced things up.” Then he grabbed a handful of the rogue nutmeg from the counter and sprinkled it into *his* glass of store-bought eggnog. I just sighed, grabbed the rum, and poured myself a double. Some traditions are best left to the grown-ups, or at least, to children supervised by someone with more patience than I possess.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away! Plus you'll get new recipes every week. Yes please!

🥚

MORE OF OUR FAVORITE…

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Eggnog Recipe

This stuff tastes like a fancy dessert in a glass, not just vaguely sweet dairy. Prepare for actual flavor, people!
Bragging rights, obviously. When someone asks where you bought this liquid gold, you can casually say, “Oh, I just whipped it up myself.” Cue impressed gasps.
You get to control the booze level. Want it potent enough to forget your holiday stress? Go for it. Keeping it kid-friendly? Easy peasy. It’s your party, literally.
It’s warm and comforting, like a fuzzy blanket but with more rum (optional, but highly recommended).
It smells amazing while it’s cooking, making your kitchen feel festive without you having to actually decorate. Win-win!

Time-Saving Hacks

Don’t want to separate a million eggs? Buy a carton of egg whites and egg yolks. Yes, it feels wrong, like cheating on your eggs, but it works.
Too many dishes? Whisk everything directly in the saucepan. Who needs a separate bowl when you have a perfectly good pot? And if you’re truly committed to avoiding dishes, just rinse it out and use it for your morning oatmeal. Multi-tasking!
Need to chill it fast? Stick the pot in an ice bath in your sink. Or, if it’s winter in North America, just put it outside for a bit. Nature’s refrigerator, baby!

Serving Ideas

Serve this glorious Homemade Eggnog Recipe with some classic Christmas cookies if you’re feeling fancy, or just a plate of store-bought ones if you’re, well, human. A side of gingerbread makes it extra festive, or a shot of espresso turns it into a surprisingly delicious (and very adult) coffee drink. You could even drizzle some chocolate syrup on top if you’re feeling extra indulgent. Pair it with a full bottle of wine if the kids have driven you absolutely bonkers today. Or honestly, just enjoy it simple and unadorned in your favorite mug, while hiding from everyone in a closet. No judgment here.

What to Serve It With

Tips & Mistakes

Storage Tips

Store it in the fridge… if there’s any left. Cold midnight leftovers? Sometimes better than fresh.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap whatever you want—sugar ↔ honey, soy sauce ↔ tamari, or skip steps and call it “deconstructed.” It still counts.

Frequently Asked Questions

I can’t have gluten… will this still work?

Yep. Use tamari or coconut aminos. You’ll survive and still brag about it online.

Do I have to peel the pineapple first?

Unless you enjoy chewing bark… yes, peel it. Your teeth will thank you.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Sure. Just drain it well or enjoy syrup soup. Still tasty, though.

How sweet is this? Can I tone it down?

Absolutely. Cut the sugar—or don’t, and embrace the sugar rush.

What if I skip the sesame oil?

Then you’ll miss the nutty vibe, but relax—it’s still food. You’ll live.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!