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Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe

4.5 from 80 reviews

This Homemade Eggnog Pudding is a rich and creamy dessert that captures the festive flavors of classic eggnog in a smooth, custard-like pudding. Infused with warm spices and a hint of rum extract, this pudding is perfect for holiday gatherings. Topped with whipped cream, grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries, it’s an elegant and comforting treat to enjoy chilled.

Ingredients

Scale

Pudding Base

  • 2 and 1/2 cups Eggnog
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 Tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon rum extract
  • 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Garnish

  • Whipped cream
  • Grated whole nutmeg, for garnish
  • Sugared cranberries (recipe below)

Instructions

  1. Combine Eggnog and Cream: In a glass measuring cup, mix the eggnog and heavy whipping cream together and set aside for later use.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
  3. Add Egg Yolks: Add the egg yolks to the dry mixture and whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
  4. Incorporate Eggnog Mixture: Slowly pour the eggnog and cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to combine evenly without curdling.
  5. Cook Pudding: Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until it thickens and starts to boil, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. The pudding should coat the back of a spoon. Keep it boiling for another 30 seconds to ensure the starch is fully cooked.
  6. Add Flavorings and Strain: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the rum extract and unsalted butter until melted and smooth. Strain the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
  7. Chill the Pudding: Cover the surface of the pudding directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the pudding set and flavors meld.
  8. Serve and Garnish: When ready to serve, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries for a festive touch. Enjoy the creamy, spiced delight!

Notes

  • For a non-alcoholic version, use rum extract only or omit entirely if preferred.
  • Make sure to stir constantly while cooking to prevent the pudding from scorching or forming lumps.
  • Covering the pudding surface with plastic wrap while cooling is essential to avoid skin formation.
  • Sugared cranberries can be made by tossing fresh cranberries in simple syrup and granulated sugar, then letting them dry until crystallized.
  • This pudding can be prepared a day in advance to allow the flavors to deepen and the texture to firm up perfectly.

Keywords: Eggnog pudding, holiday dessert, creamy pudding, festive dessert, eggnog recipe, Christmas dessert