Creamy festive egg nog.

This delicious egg nog is a perfect holiday treat, featuring a rich blend of eggs, sugar, milk, cream, and optional bourbon or rum. The egg nog is wonderfully creamy and can be enhanced with freshly grated nutmeg and ground cinnamon for a festive touch. Store the egg nog in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Before serving, chill the egg nog well and give it a good stir. Serve it in glasses, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon. Enjoy this classic holiday beverage with family and friends for a cozy, festive experience.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup bourbon or rum (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become light in color.
2. Gradually add 1/2 cup of sugar to the egg yolks, whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. In a saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is steaming but not boiling.
4. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
5. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon or rum (if using).
7. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
8. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the egg nog mixture until well combined.
9. Chill the egg nog in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
10. Serve the egg nog in glasses, garnished with freshly grated nutmeg and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.