Homemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe
Introduction
This Homemade Eggnog Pudding captures the rich, creamy flavors of classic eggnog in a smooth, comforting dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s spiced with nutmeg and enhanced with a touch of rum extract for festive warmth.

Ingredients
- 2 and 1/2 cups eggnog
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Grated whole nutmeg, for garnish
- Sugared cranberries, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: In a glass measuring cup, combine the eggnog and heavy whipping cream. Set aside.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground nutmeg.
- Step 3: Add the egg yolks to the saucepan and whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Step 4: Slowly pour the eggnog and cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly until blended.
- Step 5: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and begins to boil, about 8–10 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon. Boil for an additional 30 seconds.
- Step 6: Remove from heat. Stir in rum extract and butter until the butter melts and the pudding is smooth. Strain the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any lumps.
- Step 7: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight until fully chilled and set.
- Step 8: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, a dusting of grated whole nutmeg, and sugared cranberries. Enjoy your festive pudding!
Tips & Variations
- For a boozier dessert, substitute the rum extract with 1 to 2 tablespoons of dark rum.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream and a non-dairy eggnog alternative.
- To make sugared cranberries, simply toss fresh cranberries in a simple syrup, then coat with sugar and let dry.
- Ensure constant stirring during cooking to prevent the pudding from scorching or forming lumps.
Storage
Store the eggnog pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir if needed. This pudding is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly and makes this recipe quick and easy to prepare.
Can I prepare this pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely. This pudding benefits from chilling overnight to develop its flavor and achieve the perfect set.
PrintHomemade Eggnog Pudding Recipe
This Homemade Eggnog Pudding is a creamy, spiced dessert perfect for the holiday season. Made with rich eggnog, heavy cream, and warm spices like nutmeg, it has a smooth, velvety texture enhanced with a hint of rum extract. Topped with whipped cream, freshly grated nutmeg, and festive sugared cranberries, this pudding is a delightful treat to impress your guests or enjoy as a cozy indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 and 1/2 cups Eggnog
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 4 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
For Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Grated whole nutmeg, for garnish
- Sugared cranberries (recipe below)
Instructions
- Combine Eggnog and Cream: In a glass measuring cup, mix the eggnog and heavy whipping cream together and set aside for later use.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- Add Egg Yolks: Whisk in the egg yolks into the dry mixture until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Eggnog Mixture: Slowly pour the eggnog and cream mixture into the egg yolk and dry ingredients while whisking constantly to combine everything smoothly without lumps.
- Cook the Pudding: Place the saucepan over medium heat on the stove. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and reaches a boil, about 8-10 minutes. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Continue boiling for an additional 30 seconds to fully activate the cornstarch.
- Add Flavor and Butter: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the rum extract and unsalted butter pieces until the butter has completely melted and the pudding is smooth.
- Strain and Chill: Pour the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps. Cover the surface of the pudding directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, top the pudding with whipped cream, a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries for a festive presentation. Enjoy your rich and creamy eggnog pudding!
Notes
- Ensure you whisk constantly while cooking to prevent lumps and avoid burning the pudding.
- Covering the pudding surface with plastic wrap helps prevent a thick skin from forming during chilling.
- For best flavor, chill overnight to allow the pudding to fully set and the flavors to meld.
- Sugared cranberries add a festive sweet-tart garnish and can be prepared ahead of time.
- Use fresh nutmeg for garnish for a more aromatic and authentic flavor.
Keywords: Eggnog pudding, holiday dessert, creamy pudding, festive dessert, rum extract pudding, eggnog recipe, Christmas pudding

