If you love the festive flavors of holiday classics but want something creamy, comforting, and just a bit fancy, this Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe is going to become your new go-to treat. Imagine that rich, spiced eggnog flavor transformed into a silky pudding that’s perfectly smooth and indulgent. Each spoonful is like a cozy hug in dessert form, with hints of nutmeg and a touch of rum extract to elevate it just right. It’s not only simple to make but also wonderfully festive, making it a perfect dessert for winter gatherings or a special solo indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the magic in this Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe comes from a short and straightforward list of ingredients. Each one plays its role beautifully—from the creamy eggnog base to the luscious butter that gives it that irresistible finish. The pantry essentials and fresh components combine to give the pudding its silky texture and warm holiday flavor.
- 2½ cups eggnog: The star of the show, bringing classic holiday spices and creaminess.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and velvety smooth texture.
- â…” cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding just right without overpowering.
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch: The thickening agent that transforms this into pudding perfection.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Infuses a warm, aromatic spice that’s signature to eggnog.
- 4 large egg yolks: Adds richness and helps with a silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon rum extract: Brings that festive, boozy flavor without alcohol.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces: Makes the pudding extra creamy and glossy.
- Whipped cream: For topping and extra indulgence when serving.
- Grated whole nutmeg: A final dusting for aroma and presentation.
- Sugared cranberries: Optional sparkly garnish for that festive crunch and pop of color.
How to Make Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Eggnog Mixture
Begin by combining your eggnog and heavy whipping cream in a glass measuring cup. Setting this mixture aside allows you to focus on whisking together your dry ingredients and egg yolks, which is a crucial step for a perfectly smooth pudding without lumps.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground nutmeg. This blend ensures an evenly thickened pudding with the perfect hint of spice that’s signature to every bite.
Step 3: Incorporate the Egg Yolks
Add your egg yolks directly into the saucepan with the dry ingredients. Whisk them thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, which will be the base for your creamy pudding’s texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Egg Mixtures
Slowly pour your eggnog and cream mix into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This slow addition is key to tempering the yolks, preventing them from scrambling and ensuring your pudding ends up silky and consistent.
Step 5: Cook Until Perfectly Thickened
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. In 8 to 10 minutes, your mixture will thicken and start boiling gently. Keep it boiling for 30 seconds more to cook the cornstarch fully, giving you that luscious pudding texture.
Step 6: Add Flavor and Finish with Butter
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the rum extract along with the butter pieces until everything melts smoothly together. The butter adds irresistible richness and a glossy finish that makes each spoonful dreamy.
Step 7: Strain and Chill
For an ultra-smooth pudding, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a serving bowl. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Step 8: Prepare Sugared Cranberries (Optional)
If you want that extra festive sparkle, coat fresh cranberries in sugar syrup, let them dry, then roll in granulated sugar and dry again. These add a sweet-tart crunch that complements the creamy pudding perfectly.
How to Serve Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Start with a generous dollop of fluffy whipped cream on each pudding serving, then lightly dust grated nutmeg over the top to awaken all those lovely warm spices. Finish with a few sugared cranberries for a festive pop of color and texture that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This pudding stands out on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, buttery cookies or shortbread to add a crunchy contrast. Warm spiced nuts or a fresh fruit compote can also balance the richness if you want to round out your dessert table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve portions in elegant glass ramekins or vintage teacups for a charming holiday look. You can even layer the pudding with crushed ginger snaps or cinnamon cookie crumbs for a trifle-inspired twist that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pudding covered tightly in the fridge. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to 3 days, making it a convenient dessert to prep in advance or enjoy as a leftover treat.
Freezing
Because of its creamy texture, freezing is not recommended for Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe as it can alter the smooth consistency. It’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled.
Reheating
This pudding is delightful served chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, gently reheat in a double boiler while stirring constantly. Avoid microwave reheating as it can cause curdling or uneven warming.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this pudding?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog is perfect and brings that authentic holiday flavor to your pudding, making it quick and convenient without compromising taste.
Is the rum extract essential, or can I leave it out?
The rum extract adds that special festive touch, but you can omit it if preferred or replace it with vanilla extract for a different twist.
How do I make sugared cranberries?
Simply coat fresh cranberries in a simple sugar syrup, let them dry, roll in sugar, and dry again. This process adds sparkle and a sweet coating that makes them a fabulous garnish.
Can I make this pudding non-dairy?
Yes! Use a non-dairy eggnog and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or another creamy plant-based option to keep the texture rich.
What if my pudding isn’t thickening?
If the pudding doesn’t thicken, it might need a bit more cooking time. Keep stirring over medium heat until you see it bubbling and thickening, but be careful not to overcook.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your friends or simply treat yourself to something truly special this season, don’t hesitate to try this Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe. It’s comforting, festive, and surprisingly simple to make. Once you taste that creamy, spiced goodness, you’ll understand why this pudding feels like a holiday tradition all on its own.
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Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Eggnog Pudding combines the rich, creamy flavors of classic eggnog with a smooth, velvety pudding texture. Enhanced with warm spices like nutmeg and a hint of rum extract, this festive dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings. Topped with whipped cream, grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Pudding
- 2½ cups eggnog
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- â…” cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Toppings
- Whipped cream, for serving
- Grated whole nutmeg, for garnish
- Sugared cranberries, for garnish (prepared by coating cranberries in sugar syrup and letting them dry)
Instructions
- Combine liquids: In a glass measuring cup, mix together the eggnog and heavy whipping cream; set it aside for later use.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground nutmeg until thoroughly combined.
- Add egg yolks: Incorporate the four large egg yolks into the sugar mixture and whisk until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine eggnog mixture: Slowly pour the eggnog and cream mixture into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth base.
- Cook pudding: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously. Cook the mixture until it thickens and begins to boil, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Maintain the boil for about 30 seconds more while stirring constantly to fully cook the starch and eggs.
- Finish pudding: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the rum extract and the pieces of unsalted butter until the pudding is ultra-smooth and creamy.
- Strain pudding: Pass the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps or cooked egg bits for a silky texture.
- Chill pudding: Cover the surface of the pudding directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to fully set.
- Prepare sugared cranberries: Make a sugar syrup and coat fresh cranberries thoroughly. Allow them to dry, then roll in granulated sugar, and dry again according to the sugared cranberry preparation method.
- Serve: When ready to serve, scoop the pudding into bowls or glasses. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg, and a few sugared cranberries for a festive touch.
Notes
- Be sure to whisk constantly during cooking to prevent the pudding from burning or curdling.
- Covering the pudding surface with plastic wrap directly helps prevent a skin from forming.
- Sugared cranberries add a beautiful decorative touch and balance the richness with tartness and sweetness.
- For an adult version, you may add a splash of rum instead of rum extract if desired.
- This pudding can be made a day ahead for convenience and improved flavor melding.
