One of the most traditional and festive beverages of the holiday season is eggnog. Regardless of whether you choose to make the eggnog with alcohol or not, it is a delicious, rich treat that encompasses all of the delicious spices and flavors of the holidays. This particular recipe greatly lowers the calorie count by using low fat milk in place of heavy cream and whole milk, to give the same delicious texture and flavor with much less guilt. This recipe is also cooked, so there is no risk of infecting any holiday party guests with salmonella from your homemade eggnog. This is a delicious and creamy treat that is sure to become a holiday tradition in your household.
Ingredients:
- 4 extra-large eggs, at room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, or ½ teaspoon jarred ground nutmeg
- 4 cups low fat milk
- 3 oz. bourbon (optional)
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Directions:
1. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved. This should take approximately 2 minutes. Add in the vanilla, milk and nutmeg, and continue to beat until all of the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
2. Pour the mixture into a large saucepan and turn the burner to medium heat. Bring the eggnog just to a simmer (160°F). Hold the temperature for 1 minute, then remove it from the heat. Do not allow the eggnog to come all of the way to a boil.
3. Pour the cooked eggnog through a strainer into a pitcher. Stir in the bourbon. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until ready to serve.
4. Pour into glasses and sprinkle with additional nutmeg for garnish.
This recipe make 8 servings.
There it is, an easy way to add a homemade flair to one of the most festive and delicious beverages of the holiday season. By making it yourself, you even have the option of saving on some of the fat calories that you would get from drinking store-bought eggnog. It is a slightly healthier take on a decadent old favorite.
