Single-serve eggnog made with milk, cream, egg yolk, sugar, and nutmeg for a creamy and spiced holiday drink. This easy homemade eggnog recipe can be served hot or chilled and is perfect for one person. Add rum, bourbon, whiskey, or brandy for a classic holiday cocktail version. Quick to prepare, this one-person eggnog is ideal for cozy winter nights, festive gatherings, or a simple seasonal treat.
Ingredients
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 shot rum, bourbon, whiskey, or brandy (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Warm the Milk: In a small saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Mix Egg Yolk: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, sugar, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Temper the Egg: Slowly add about half of the warm milk to the egg mixture, one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from curdling.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
- Cook Eggnog: Place over low heat and stir constantly for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 160°F (70°C) or thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Avoid boiling.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve: Pour into a mug. Add a shot of rum, bourbon, whiskey, or brandy if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. Top with whipped cream if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This single-serve eggnog is creamy, rich, and perfectly spiced, making it a cozy holiday drink for one. It’s simple to make at home using basic ingredients, with the option to add your favorite spirit for an extra kick.
Tips
- Whisk constantly when cooking to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Use whole milk for a richer flavor, or low-fat milk for a lighter version.
- Chill the eggnog for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Variations and Substitutions
- Non-Alcoholic: Simply skip the alcohol.
- Dairy-Free: Replace milk and cream with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Spices: Add cinnamon or a pinch of cloves for extra holiday flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Re-stir before serving.
Q: Can I use a whole egg instead of just the yolk?
A: Using a whole egg will make the eggnog richer and slightly frothier.
Q: What if I don’t have a thermometer?
A: Cook on low heat until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
Serving
Serve chilled in a mug or festive glass. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a classic presentation. Add a cinnamon stick for garnish if desired.
Suggestions
- Pair with holiday cookies or gingerbread for a complete treat.
- Make it a cozy winter evening drink by warming instead of chilling.
- Experiment with different spirits like rum, bourbon, or brandy for flavor variations.
Eggnog For One
1
servings5
minutes15
minutesIngredients
½ cup milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 large 1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons 2 granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1 shot rum, bourbon, whiskey, or brandy (optional)
Whipped cream (optional)
Directions
- Warm the Milk: In a small saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Mix Egg Yolk: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, sugar, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Temper the Egg: Slowly add about half of the warm milk to the egg mixture, one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from curdling.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
- Cook Eggnog: Place over low heat and stir constantly for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 160°F (70°C) or thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Avoid boiling.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve: Pour into a mug. Add a shot of rum, bourbon, whiskey, or brandy if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. Top with whipped cream if desired.
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