How to Make the Best Eggnog and the Best Hot Cocoa in the South
Nothing says “Southern holiday gathering” like a glass of creamy, homemade eggnog. Whether you’re enjoying it by the fire or serving it at a festive soirée, eggnog is a time-honored tradition that can easily be elevated with a few creative touches. Here’s how to craft the ultimate eggnog recipe from scratch and dress it up in deliciously unexpected ways.
The Best Homemade Eggnog Recipe
Ingredients:
6 large egg yolks
¾ cup sugar
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
½ to 1 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy (optional, but encouraged!)
Instructions:
Whisk the Base: In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale.
Heat the Milk Mixture: In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and nutmeg. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring constantly, until just simmering (don’t let it boil!).
Temper the Eggs: Slowly add a ladleful of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. Gradually add the tempered eggs back into the saucepan.
Cook Until Thickened: Continue heating the mixture over medium-low, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 160–165°F).
Cool and Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Spirited Option: Stir in your choice of bourbon, rum, or brandy before serving.
Serve: Pour into glasses, top with a sprinkle of nutmeg, and enjoy!
Ways to Dress Up Your Eggnog
Whipped Cream Crown: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and garnish with grated chocolate or cinnamon sticks for a decadent finish.
Eggnog Latte: Combine eggnog with freshly brewed espresso for a cozy coffee twist. Sprinkle with nutmeg for extra flair.
Salted Caramel Swirl: Drizzle salted caramel sauce into each glass and swirl before serving. Top with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Peppermint Eggnog: Crush peppermint candies and rim your glass with them. Add a splash of peppermint schnapps for a minty surprise.
Nutty Nog: Toast crushed pecans and sprinkle them on top. Pair with a splash of hazelnut liqueur for a nutty twist.
Ultimate Hot Cocoa Guide: Make It Cozy, Make It Fancy
When the temperature dips, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming mug of hot cocoa. But let’s not settle for store-bought packets. With this homemade recipe and creative upgrades, your hot cocoa will steal the spotlight at every holiday gathering.
The Best Homemade Hot Cocoa Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Heat the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium-low, whisking constantly, until warm.
Melt the Chocolate: Stir in chocolate chips and continue whisking until fully melted and smooth.
Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Serve: Pour into mugs and top with your favorite garnishes!
Ways to Dress Up Your Hot Cocoa
S’mores Hot Cocoa: Top with toasted marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, and a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Mexican Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Mocha Cocoa: Stir in a shot of espresso or coffee for a caffeine boost. Add whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.
Peppermint Bliss: Drop in a peppermint candy cane for stirring, and garnish with crushed candy canes on top.
Bourbon Hot Cocoa: Add a splash of bourbon and a pinch of smoked salt for a grown-up indulgence.
Peanut Butter Cup Cocoa: Stir in a spoonful of creamy peanut butter until melted. Top with chocolate shavings and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.
Tips for Presentation:
Rimmed Mugs: Dip the rims of your mugs in melted chocolate and roll in sprinkles, crushed cookies, or peppermint bits.
Serve Family-Style: Set up a “Hot Cocoa Bar” with bowls of marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and syrups so everyone can customize their cup.
Holiday Flair: Garnish with festive touches like mini candy canes, rosemary sprigs, or edible glitter.
