Egg liqueur

Eggnog – A homemade delicacy full of nostalgia

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1-2 hours
Total time: 1-2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 500 ml of eggnog

If you are looking for a way to bring a special touch to your holidays, look no further! Eggnog is a classic recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation, bringing with it memories and unforgettable moments around the table. This recipe is perfect for enjoying with family or gifting to loved ones. Here’s how to prepare this delicious eggnog that will add a touch of refinement to any occasion.

Ingredients

- 6 egg yolks
- 200 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla (preferably ground bourbon paste)
- 250 ml milk
- 200 ml sweetened liquid cream (e.g., Meggle)
- 250 ml brandy (or other strong alcohol, such as gin or vodka)

Step by step

Step 1: Prepare the base of the eggnog
Start by preparing the ingredients. Make sure they are all at room temperature for a smooth texture. In a saucepan, add 250 ml of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the milk close to boiling point. It is important not to let the milk boil, just heat it well.

Step 2: Whisk the egg yolks
In a bowl, add the 6 egg yolks and 200 g of sugar. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it becomes creamy and light in color. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth texture in the eggnog.

Step 3: Combine the ingredients
Once the milk is warm enough, take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully pour the warm milk over the egg yolk and sugar mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. This technique is called "tempering" and is essential for obtaining a smooth and delicious eggnog.

Step 4: Heat the mixture
Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan and place it over low heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly. Do not let the mixture boil, as this can affect the texture of the eggnog.

Step 5: Cool and add the cream
Once the mixture has thickened, let it cool to room temperature. After it has cooled, add 200 ml of liquid cream. Use a whisk to mix vigorously, ensuring the cream is well incorporated into the egg mixture.

Step 6: Finalize the eggnog
Finally, add the 250 ml of brandy, mixing well. If you want to experiment, replace the brandy with gin or vodka, but be careful: adjust the amount to 180-200 ml to maintain a balance of flavors.

Step 7: Bottle and chill
Pour the eggnog into clean bottles and seal them tightly. Store them in the refrigerator. The longer the eggnog sits, the tastier it will become, and the foam on top will gradually disappear. We recommend letting the eggnog chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Practical tips

- If you prefer a sweeter eggnog, use unsweetened liquid cream and add 2-3 tablespoons of extra sugar.
- Eggnog pairs perfectly with cakes, pastries, or even ice cream. Try using it as a filling for cakes or as a sauce for ice cream!
- This eggnog is also ideal for enjoying on its own, chilled or on the rocks.

Nutritional information

This eggnog recipe, per 50 ml serving, contains approximately 150-200 calories. The eggnog is rich in protein due to the egg yolks, and the brandy adds an extra layer of flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole eggs?
It is not recommended, as the yolks provide the creamy texture and specific flavor of the eggnog.

2. What other alcohol can I use?
Besides brandy, you can experiment with rum or whiskey, each bringing a distinct note to your eggnog.

3. How long can I keep eggnog?
Eggnog keeps well in the refrigerator for about 2-3 weeks, but the sooner you enjoy it, the fresher and tastier it will be.

4. When is the best time to serve eggnog?
This eggnog is perfect for holidays, gatherings with friends, or simply to add a special touch to relaxing evenings at home.

Personal note

This eggnog recipe reminds me of my childhood when my mother carefully poured the eggnog into beautifully decorated glasses, and its sweet, creamy aroma filled the whole room. It is very easy to prepare and will surely become a tradition in your family, just as it was in mine. So embrace this recipe and let it bring a touch of magic into your life!