This creamy eggnog ice cream is a festive treat that’s super simple to make at home. Just mix eggnog, cream, and sugar, and freeze! It’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
I’ve always loved how rich and dreamy it is—just the thing to cool off after a long day of holiday prep. I sometimes spoon some on top of my pie! 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggnog: Store-bought eggnog is convenient, but homemade gives you control over sweetness and spices. If you want a non-dairy option, use almond or coconut eggnog instead; just check the flavor, as it will change the final taste.
Heavy Cream: This is key for a creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half instead, though it won’t be quite as rich. Coconut cream also works if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar keeps it sweet, but you could swap in brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or try a sugar substitute like agave syrup for a lower-calorie option.
Spices: The mix of nutmeg and cinnamon brings warmth. If you’re a fan of other spices, a pinch of ginger or cloves can add a nice twist. Feel free to adjust according to your taste!
How Do You Get the Creamiest Ice Cream?
The key to super creamy ice cream is in the churning process! Churning incorporates air and breaks up ice crystals, giving you that smooth texture. Here’s how to do it well:
- Make sure your ice cream maker’s bowl is completely frozen before starting—check the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Churn the mixture for the full recommended time to achieve the right consistency. If it stops thickening, it’s done!
- Transfer to a container and freeze for a while longer. This helps firm it up for perfect scoops later on.
By following these tips, you’ll create a delicious eggnog ice cream that friends and family will love. Enjoy making this cozy treat!
Easy Homemade Eggnog Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 tablespoon rum or brandy (for an adult version)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream takes about 10 minutes for prep, plus around 20-25 minutes for churning in your ice cream maker, and then a minimum of 4 hours to freeze completely. So, set aside a bit of time for making, churning, and freezing your treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the eggnog, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Keep whisking until everything is blended and the sugar has dissolved. You want it smooth and creamy for the best texture!
2. Add Some Spirit (Optional):
If you’d like to make this a festive adult treat, stir in the optional rum or brandy. This will give your ice cream that extra kick of flavor that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
3. Churn the Mixture:
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and churn for about 20-25 minutes until the ice cream reaches a soft, creamy consistency. This process is what makes your ice cream fluffy!
4. Freeze to Firm Up:
After churning, transfer the ice cream into an airtight container. For the best results, pop it in the freezer for at least 4 hours to firm up nicely. The longer it freezes, the better the texture will be!
5. Scooping Time:
Before you’re ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This makes it easier to scoop. Then, scoop it into bowls or dessert glasses for a beautiful presentation.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
For that festive touch, sprinkle a little extra nutmeg over the top and add a cinnamon stick if you wish. Now you can enjoy your rich, creamy homemade eggnog ice cream with friends and family!
This treat is sure to become a holiday favorite—enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQs for Easy Homemade Eggnog Ice Cream
Can I Use Store-Bought Eggnog?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog is a convenient choice and works perfectly in this recipe. Just pick a brand you enjoy, or try making your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Look for a dairy-free eggnog or make your own using almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk to keep it entirely dairy-free.
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No worries! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours until it’s creamy and frozen. This helps break up ice crystals for a smoother texture!
How to Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It can stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks, but make sure to let it soften a bit at room temperature before serving, as homemade ice cream can get quite hard in the freezer.
Enjoy creating your eggnog ice cream and spreading holiday cheer!
