Alton Brown Eggnog Recipe is made with egg yolks, whole milk, heavy cream, bourbon, freshly grated nutmeg, and egg whites. This recipe creates a rich and creamy holiday drink with a light, frothy texture. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and yields 6 to 7 cups.
Alton Brown Eggnog Recipe Ingredients
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
- 1 pint whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 ounces bourbon
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 4 egg whites
How To Make Alton Brown Eggnog Recipe
- Beat the Yolks: In a stand mixer bowl, beat the egg yolks until lightened in color. Gradually add 1/3 cup sugar and beat until dissolved.
- Mix Liquids: Stir in the milk, heavy cream, bourbon, and grated nutmeg.
- Whip the Whites: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites to soft peaks. Gradually add 1 tablespoon sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Combine and Chill: Whisk the egg whites into the yolk mixture. Chill before serving.
For Cooked Eggnog:
- Prepare Egg Base: Beat yolks and sugar in stand mixer until smooth.
- Heat Dairy: In a saucepan, bring milk, cream, and nutmeg to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Temper Yolks: Slowly add hot mixture into yolks while stirring. Return everything to the pan and cook to 160°F.
- Add Bourbon and Chill: Remove from heat, stir in bourbon, and chill in the refrigerator.
- Whip Whites: Beat egg whites to soft peaks, gradually add sugar, and beat to stiff peaks.
- Finish: Fold whipped egg whites into the chilled base. Serve.

Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg offers more aroma and flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Cold eggnog tastes better and has a smoother texture.
- Choose Good Bourbon: The quality of bourbon affects the final flavor.
- Temper Carefully: For cooked eggnog, add hot milk slowly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Serve with Garnish: Sprinkle extra nutmeg on top before serving.
What To Serve With Eggnog
This festive drink pairs well with gingerbread cookies, shortbread, pecan pie, or a cheese board. It’s also great with holiday breakfast pastries or spiced cakes.
How To Store Eggnog
Refrigerate: Store eggnog in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
Freeze: Not recommended, as dairy and eggs may separate when thawed.
Eggnog Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
FAQs
Can I make eggnog without alcohol?
Yes, simply omit the bourbon for a non-alcoholic version.
Is raw eggnog safe to drink?
If using fresh, pasteurized eggs, raw eggnog is generally safe. Use the cooked version for added safety.
Can I make eggnog ahead of time?
Yes, it actually improves in flavor after chilling for a few hours.
What can I use instead of bourbon?
You can substitute with rum, brandy, or omit alcohol entirely.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, a hand mixer works just fine for both yolks and egg whites.
Try More Recipes:
- Alton Brown Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Alton Brown Mac And Cheese Recipe
- Alton Brown Turkey Recipe
Alton Brown Eggnog Recipe
Description
A rich and creamy holiday classic made with eggs, milk, cream, and a splash of bourbon.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg yolks in a stand mixer until light. Add 1/3 cup sugar and beat until dissolved.
- Stir in milk, cream, bourbon, and nutmeg.
- Beat egg whites to soft peaks. Add 1 tablespoon sugar and beat to stiff peaks.
- Whisk egg whites into the yolk mixture and chill before serving.
- Beat egg yolks with 1/3 cup sugar.
- Heat milk, cream, and nutmeg to a boil. Temper into yolks, then cook to 160°F.
- Stir in bourbon, chill. Beat egg whites with remaining sugar and fold in.
