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Creamy Slow Cooker Spiced Eggnog: Easy Homemade Holiday Recipe

creamy slow cooker spiced eggnog - featured image

This creamy slow cooker spiced eggnog is rich, velvety, and infused with warm holiday spices. Set it and forget it for a foolproof homemade drink that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large eggs (room temperature)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 vanilla bean pod (or 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
  • Pinch of salt
  • Whipped cream (for serving, optional)
  • Extra freshly grated nutmeg (for serving, optional)
  • Cinnamon sticks (for serving, optional)
  • Bourbon, dark rum, or brandy (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 room-temperature eggs and ¾ cup sugar for 2-3 minutes until pale yellow and slightly thick.
  2. Pour in 4 cups whole milk and 2 cups heavy cream. Whisk until completely combined.
  3. If using a vanilla bean pod, split it lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add both seeds and pod to the slow cooker. If using vanilla extract, set aside for later.
  4. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk to distribute spices.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Cover and set to LOW heat (do not use HIGH).
  6. Cook on LOW for 2 hours, stirring gently every 30 minutes to prevent skin from forming and ensure even heating.
  7. After 2 hours, check for doneness: the eggnog should coat the back of a spoon. If still thin, cook for another 15-30 minutes.
  8. If using a vanilla bean pod, remove it. Pour eggnog through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean pitcher or serving bowl. If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
  9. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Ladle into mugs, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg. Serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use room-temperature eggs and fresh spices. Do not cook on HIGH heat to avoid scrambling the eggs. The eggnog can be served warm or chilled. For a spiked version, add bourbon, dark rum, or brandy to individual cups. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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