Follow Me On Social Media!
Homemade Eggnog Pudding: A Creamy Holiday Dessert You’ll Crave All Winter Long
Few desserts capture the cozy magic of the holiday season quite like Homemade Eggnog Pudding. Rich, silky, warmly spiced, and deeply comforting, this dessert transforms the classic holiday drink into a spoonable treat that feels indulgent yet familiar. If you love eggnog but want something a little different from the usual latte or cocktail, this pudding recipe is the perfect answer.
Eggnog pudding delivers all the nostalgic flavors you expect—nutmeg, vanilla, creamy dairy, and subtle sweetness—wrapped into a luscious, custard-like dessert. It’s elegant enough for Christmas dinner yet simple enough to make on a quiet winter evening. Best of all, it requires no baking, minimal ingredients, and just a bit of stovetop attention.
This recipe is designed to be approachable, even if you’ve never made pudding from scratch before. Unlike boxed mixes, homemade eggnog pudding offers a depth of flavor and luxurious texture that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Plus, you can customize it endlessly, from adding whipped cream to spiked adult versions or dairy-free alternatives.
Whether you’re planning a holiday party, looking for a make-ahead dessert, or simply craving something cozy and sweet, this egg nog dessert recipe deserves a place in your seasonal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Eggnog Pudding
There are plenty of reasons this recipe stands out as a holiday favorite:
- True holiday flavor – Made with real eggnog and warm spices for authentic taste
- Ultra-creamy texture – Smooth, velvety pudding that melts in your mouth
- No oven required – Perfect for busy holidays when oven space is precious
- Make-ahead friendly – Chill it overnight and serve when ready
- Customizable – Easy to adapt for dietary needs or flavor twists
This pudding is especially ideal if you want a dessert that feels festive without being overly heavy or complicated.
Ingredients for Homemade Eggnog Pudding
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh nutmeg and real eggnog make a noticeable difference.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups eggnog (full-fat preferred)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Crushed gingersnap cookies
- Cinnamon sticks
- White chocolate shavings
Instructions: How to Make Eggnog Pudding from Scratch
Making pudding at home is easier than you might think. Just follow these steps carefully and stir consistently for perfect results.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Slowly whisk in the eggnog and milk until smooth and fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.
- Heat the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken (about 6–8 minutes).
- Once warm, slowly ladle a small amount of the hot mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously to temper them.
- Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the pudding thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Transfer pudding to serving bowls, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Garnish and serve chilled.
Texture and Flavor: What Makes Eggnog Pudding Special
Unlike vanilla pudding, eggnog pudding has a deeper, warmer flavor profile. Nutmeg takes center stage, supported by vanilla and gentle sweetness. The egg yolks add richness, while cornstarch ensures a smooth, spoonable consistency.
The result is a creamy holiday pudding that feels luxurious without being heavy. It’s comforting, aromatic, and unmistakably festive.
Tips for Perfect Eggnog Pudding Every Time
- Stir constantly to prevent lumps or scorching
- Use full-fat eggnog for the richest texture
- Temper the egg yolks slowly to avoid scrambling
- Fresh nutmeg provides the best aroma and flavor
- Chill thoroughly for optimal thickness
If your pudding seems too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of milk before serving.
Variations and Flavor Twists
This recipe is a wonderful base for creative variations:
- Bourbon Eggnog Pudding – Stir in 1–2 tablespoons bourbon or rum
- Chocolate Eggnog Pudding – Add 2 oz melted white chocolate
- Dairy-Free Version – Use almond or oat eggnog and plant milk
- Low-Sugar Option – Replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener
- Spiced Orange – Add orange zest for brightness
Serving Suggestions for the Holidays
Eggnog pudding is incredibly versatile. Serve it:
- In elegant glass cups for dinner parties
- Layered with cookies as a parfait
- In mini jars for holiday gifting
- Topped with whipped cream and cinnamon
- Alongside gingerbread or shortbread
It pairs beautifully with coffee, chai, or a warm mug of tea.
Cultural Context: Eggnog as a Holiday Tradition
Eggnog dates back centuries, evolving from medieval milk punches to today’s iconic holiday drink. In American culture, eggnog is deeply associated with Christmas, winter gatherings, and festive indulgence. Turning it into pudding is a modern twist that honors tradition while offering something fresh and exciting.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Eggnog pudding can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator. For best texture, stir gently before serving and add toppings just before presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Eggnog Pudding is everything a holiday dessert should be: comforting, festive, creamy, and unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it at Christmas dinner or enjoying a quiet winter night at home, this recipe delivers warmth and joy in every spoonful.
Once you try it, you may never look at eggnog the same way again.
Homemade Eggnog Pudding
A rich, creamy holiday pudding made with real eggnog, warm spices, and a silky smooth texture.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk sugar, cornstarch, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a saucepan.
- Slowly whisk in eggnog and milk until smooth.
- Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Temper egg yolks with hot mixture, then return to saucepan.
- Cook 2–3 minutes until custard-like.
- Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla.
- Chill covered for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Use full-fat eggnog for the creamiest texture. Stir constantly to prevent lumps.
