Name: Indulge in Homemade Eggnog Pudding for Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 365 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Eggnog (Use dairy-free versions for a non-dairy option.); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar (Try coconut sugar for a more natural option.); ¼ cup Cornstarch (Can be substituted with arrowroot powder for gluten-free needs.); ¼ teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Can be swapped with pumpkin pie spice.); 4 large Egg Yolks (Use a commercial egg replacer for a vegan version.); 1 teaspoon Rum Extract (Can be omitted or replaced with vanilla extract.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can be omitted for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup Whipped Cream (A dollop adds lightness and elevates the dessert's look.); 1 cup Sugared Cranberries (Adds a festive touch; crushed gingersnaps can be used as a substitute.); to taste Grated Nutmeg (Garnish for classic holiday flavor enhancement.)

As winter nights cozy up, the aroma of eggnog seems to dance through the air, evoking joyous memories of holiday gatherings. If you’ve ever looked at leftover eggnog and wondered how to transform it into a delightful treat, this Homemade Eggnog Pudding is your answer! This creamy dessert captures that festive eggnog flavor in a rich, silken texture that’s simply irresistible. With minimal effort, you can whip up a decadent holiday dessert that not only wows your guests but also offers an opportunity to use up those extra cups of eggnog. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for busy holiday schedules. Ready to treat yourself to this festive delight? Let’s dive into how to make this creamy Homemade Eggnog Pudding!

Why is Homemade Eggnog Pudding a Must-Try?

Creamy Delight: This Homemade Eggnog Pudding is a luscious treat that perfectly captures the essence of holiday flavors!

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a festive dessert that’s ready to impress.

Versatile Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Swap in crushed gingersnaps for a delightful crunch or add sugared cranberries for a festive touch.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this pudding a day in advance, so it’s ready when you are, ensuring your holiday celebration is stress-free.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Rich, sweet, and oh-so-decadent, this pudding will leave your guests craving more. Serve it in individual ramekins for a gorgeous presentation, just like with my Homemade Raspberry Swirl dessert!

Homemade Eggnog Pudding Ingredients

• Perfect for this holiday dessert!

For the Pudding

Eggnog – Provides the signature flavor; use dairy-free versions for a non-dairy option.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds richness and creaminess; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pudding; try coconut sugar as a more natural option.
Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent; substitute with arrowroot powder for gluten-free needs.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor.
Ground Nutmeg – Traditional eggnog spice that adds warmth; can be swapped with pumpkin pie spice if desired.
Egg Yolks – Provide richness and help thicken the pudding; use a commercial egg replacer for a vegan version.
Rum Extract – Adds depth of flavor; can be omitted or replaced with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic twist.
Unsalted Butter – Increases creaminess; can be omitted for a dairy-free version.

For the Topping

Whipped Cream – A dollop adds lightness and elevates the dessert’s look.
Sugared Cranberries – Adds a festive touch and a bit of tartness; crushed gingersnaps can be a fun substitute!
Grated Nutmeg – Garnish for a classic holiday flavor enhancement.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Eggnog Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Eggnog Mixture
Begin by combining 2 cups of eggnog and 1 cup of heavy whipping cream in a large glass measuring cup. Give it a gentle stir until fully blended. Set this aside, letting the cream settle to create a rich foundation for your Homemade Eggnog Pudding.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of cornstarch, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Whisk until there are no lumps, combining the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure a smooth pudding base without any gritty texture.

Step 3: Combine the Egg Yolks
Add 4 egg yolks to the dry mixture, whisking vigorously until everything is smoothly incorporated. The mixture will become thick and creamy, signaling that it’s ready to be combined with the eggnog blend. This adds richness and ensures that your pudding has a velvety texture.

Step 4: Add the Eggnog Mixture
Gradually pour the reserved eggnog and cream mixture into the saucepan, whisking continuously to combine. This gradual incorporation helps prevent the egg yolks from scrambling. Keep whisking until the entire mixture is uniform and well-blended for the perfect Homemade Eggnog Pudding.

Step 5: Cook the Pudding
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 8-10 minutes. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently. When the pudding is capable of coating the back of a spoon, you know it’s ready for the next step.

Step 6: Incorporate Rum Extract and Butter
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of rum extract and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until fully melted. The warm pudding will take on an extra layer of flavor and creaminess, making your Homemade Eggnog Pudding absolutely indulgent.

Step 7: Strain the Pudding
To achieve the silky smooth texture, strain the pudding mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a medium bowl. This step removes any unwanted lumps, ensuring that every spoonful of your Homemade Eggnog Pudding is perfectly creamy and delightful.

Step 8: Chill the Pudding
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, though overnight is preferred. Letting the pudding rest enhances its flavors and achieves the right consistency.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
When ready to serve, dish the Homemade Eggnog Pudding into individual ramekins or glasses. Garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries for a festive touch. This beautiful presentation will make your holiday dessert a showstopper!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Homemade Eggnog Pudding ahead of time is a fantastic way to minimize stress during the busy holiday season! You can make the pudding up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while saving valuable time on the day of your gathering. Simply follow the recipe up until straining the pudding, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Once chilled, serve directly from the fridge, garnished with fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries just before serving. Rest assured, your Homemade Eggnog Pudding will be just as delicious when prepared ahead!

What to Serve with Creamy Homemade Eggnog Pudding

Creating a cozy holiday meal that pairs beautifully with this creamy delight can elevate your gatherings to new heights.

Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, aromatic drink that complements the sweet flavors of your pudding while enhancing the festive spirit.
Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spice of gingerbread offers a delightful crunch contrasting the silky pudding, creating a delicious texture combination.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and slight caramelization echo the flavors in the pudding, rounding out a comforting meal.
Pecan Pie: An iconic holiday dessert, with its nutty richness, pairs wonderfully with the creamy eggnog flavor, enhancing the overall treat.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the pudding, providing a refreshing pop that brightens every bite.

These pairings enrich the experience and create a mesmerizing holiday table, where each element plays a perfect harmony with the creamy Homemade Eggnog Pudding!

Homemade Eggnog Pudding Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful pudding and make it your own with these fun, tasty swaps!

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free delight. It’s rich, tropical, and still deliciously creamy.
Sugar Alternatives: Use maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar to add a unique twist. Both options bring warmth and depth, enhancing the holiday flavors.
Spice It Up: Replace ground nutmeg with chai spice for a warm, spicy flair. It complements the eggnog beautifully, giving your pudding a comforting, cozy vibe.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of almond extract along with the eggnog for a delightful nutty twist. It infuses a touch of sophistication that pairs perfectly with the creamy pudding.
Chocolate Lover’s: Incorporate a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the pudding for a chocolatey variation! It’s an unexpected and delicious twist that will please chocoholics at your holiday gathering.
Fruit Infusion: Pour in a splash of orange or lemon zest during cooking for a zesty bright note! It lightens the pudding while adding a festive citrus holiday charm.
Decadent Serve: Top with a drizzle of bourbon caramel sauce for an indulgent finish. This sweet addition takes your presentation up a notch and adds a flavor explosion.
Make it Crunchy: Consider adding crushed peppermint candies as a topping instead of sugared cranberries for a refreshing crunch and festive flair, reminiscent of holiday candy canes!

With these variations, you’re sure to impress your guests and create unique memories around the dessert table. For more exciting recipes, don’t forget to check out my Crust Pepperoni Pizza for a family favorite to serve alongside your pudding!

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Eggnog Pudding

Fridge: Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover directly with plastic wrap to maintain its creamy texture and prevent any skin from forming.

Freezer: If you need to store it longer, freeze the pudding in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: For best results, gently reheat the pudding on the stovetop over low heat while stirring occasionally. Add a splash of eggnog or cream to restore its silky consistency if needed.

Make-Ahead Tip: This Homemade Eggnog Pudding can be made a day in advance, making it a convenient option for holiday gatherings!

Expert Tips for Homemade Eggnog Pudding

Whisk Continuously: Avoid lumps and scorching by whisking constantly while cooking. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture for your Homemade Eggnog Pudding.

Check Consistency: To know when it’s thick enough, dip a spoon into the pudding; it should coat the back without running off easily.

Fine Mesh Sieve: Straining through a fine mesh sieve removes any unwanted lumps, giving your pudding that velvety finish everyone loves.

Cover Properly: Press plastic wrap directly onto the pudding surface before chilling to prevent a skin from forming, keeping it silky smooth.

Make-Ahead Magic: This pudding is great made in advance; it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making your holiday preparations easier.

Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of eggnog should I use for the pudding?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use a rich, creamy eggnog, whether store-bought or homemade. If you prefer a non-dairy option, look for almond or coconut-based eggnog as a substitute.

How should I store leftover Homemade Eggnog Pudding?
You can store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the surface with plastic wrap directly to avoid any skin from forming while it chills.

Can I freeze Homemade Eggnog Pudding, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze the pudding! First, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or eggnog to restore its creaminess.

Why is my Homemade Eggnog Pudding not thickening?
If your pudding isn’t thickening as expected, make sure to cook it over medium heat, whisking constantly until it reaches a gentle boil. This should take about 8-10 minutes. If it still seems runny, try adding an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken it up. Remember, it should coat the back of a spoon!

Is this pudding suitable for those with allergies?
The Homemade Eggnog Pudding contains eggs, dairy, and sugar, so if anyone has allergies, consider using substitutes such as a commercial egg replacer and coconut cream for a non-dairy option. Always check ingredient labels if you have guests with known allergies.

Can I use a different spice instead of nutmeg?
Very! While nutmeg is traditional for eggnog, consider using pumpkin pie spice for a delightful twist. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly but can add a lovely autumnal touch to your Homemade Eggnog Pudding!