Frequently Asked Questions
What is Festive Spiced Eggnog?
Festive Spiced Eggnog is a rich, creamy holiday beverage made with eggs, milk, rum, and warm spices, based on a classic Cook's Illustrated recipe.
Who is the original source for this eggnog recipe?
The recipe is inspired by the culinary standards of the renowned Cook's Illustrated.
How many eggs are needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 6 large eggs plus 2 additional egg yolks, all beaten.
What type of sugar should I use?
Use 10 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Is there salt in the eggnog?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt.
What kind of milk is recommended for the base?
The recipe specifies using 4 cups of whole milk for a creamy texture.
What alcohol is best for this eggnog?
You can use 1/2 cup of either dark rum or spiced rum.
How much vanilla extract is added?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
How much nutmeg is used in the mixture?
Use 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for garnish.
How much heavy cream is needed?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks.
How do I begin the mixing process?
Whisk the eggs, yolks, sugar, and salt together in a heavy saucepan before placing it on the heat.
How should the milk be incorporated?
The whole milk should be stirred in gradually, 1/2 cup at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition.
What temperature should the custard reach?
The mixture should be heated over a low flame until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to cook the custard?
It takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes of continuous stirring over the lowest flame.
How do I know the custard is thick enough?
The custard is ready when the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Why is the custard strained?
Straining the custard through a fine-mesh sieve removes any solids for a perfectly smooth texture.
When do I add the rum and vanilla?
The dark rum, vanilla extract, and grated nutmeg are stirred into the custard after it has been strained.
How should the eggnog be chilled?
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the mixture is completely chilled.
When is the heavy cream added to the eggnog?
The heavy cream is whipped and folded into the custard just before serving.
What consistency should the whipped cream have?
The cream should be whipped until it reaches very soft peaks.
How is the whipped cream combined with the custard?
It should be gently folded in to maintain a light and airy texture.
How should I serve the finished eggnog?
Serve the eggnog in chilled cups with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg on top.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 150 calories per serving of this eggnog.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 9 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this drink?
The eggnog contains 17.9 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content of the eggnog?
There are 3.4 grams of protein in each serving.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
Each serving contains 14 grams of sugar.
How many total ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients: eggs, egg yolks, sugar, salt, milk, rum, vanilla, nutmeg, and heavy cream.
What tags are associated with this festive drink?
Tags include eggnog, holiday drinks, beverages, festive, and winter beverages.
Is this eggnog considered a dessert drink?
Yes, it is tagged as a dessert drink and christmas festive beverage.