Eggnog Pudding Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, creamy dessert that perfectly captures the warm, festive flavors of the holidays, you absolutely have to try my Eggnog Pudding Recipe. This pudding is silky smooth, richly spiced, and just sweet enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling heavy. I promise, once you make this, it’s going to become your go-to comfort treat during chilly months—or anytime eggnog calls your name! Keep reading because I’m sharing all my best tips to help you nail it on the first try and add some delicious optional toppings for that extra festive flair.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Eggnog Pudding Recipe works together to bring out that rich, creamy texture and authentic holiday flavor you crave. When picking your eggnog, I recommend going for a good-quality bottled one or even homemade if you have the time—that makes a noticeable difference in taste.

• Eggnog: The star of the show; choose a creamy, flavorful eggnog to get that authentic holiday vibe.
• Heavy whipping cream: Adds lush creaminess to the pudding’s texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens while balancing the spices; adjust slightly if you prefer it less sweet.
• Cornstarch: This thickening agent gives the pudding its silky, custard-like body without any lumps.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and tames the sweetness.
• Ground nutmeg: Classic spice that pairs beautifully with eggnog; freshly grated is best when you can get it.
• Large egg yolks: They provide richness and help thicken the pudding naturally.
• Rum extract: Gives that warm, boozy note without the alcohol, but feel free to swap with real rum if you like.
• Unsalted butter: Adds shine and a velvety mouthfeel when stirred in at the end.

Variations

I love playing around with this Eggnog Pudding Recipe to suit the occasion or my mood. It’s such a flexible dessert that you can dress up or down easily. Whether you want something rich and boozy or simpler and kid-friendly, there’s a tweak you can try.

• Make it boozy: Adding a tablespoon or two of your favorite rum instead of the rum extract gives it a grown-up kick that my family goes crazy for at holiday parties.
• Dairy-free twist: Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk, and make sure to use egg-free cornstarch or a suitable thickener for a vegan-friendly version.
• Add spices: I sometimes mix in a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to deepen the warmth of the pudding, which makes it taste even more festive.
• Different toppings: Aside from sugared cranberries, I like to stir in some toasted pecans or sprinkle shaved dark chocolate on top for texture and contrast.

How to Make Eggnog Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Liquids and Dry Ingredients Separately

Start by combining the eggnog and heavy cream in a glass measuring cup—this makes it easy to pour slowly later. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, salt, and nutmeg until evenly combined. This step is key to avoid clumps when you add the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Incorporate Egg Yolks and Gradually Combine Everything

Next, add the egg yolks to your dry ingredients in the saucepan and whisk until smooth—no lumps here! Now, very slowly pour in your eggnog and cream mixture, whisking constantly. I find this gradual combining helps keep your pudding silky without scrambling the eggs.

Step 3: Cook and Thicken on Medium Heat

Place the saucepan on medium heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula. Watch closely as the pudding thickens—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of your spoon like a luscious custard. Don’t rush this part or leave it unattended; stirring ensures it thickens evenly and doesn’t burn on the bottom.

Step 4: Finish with Rum Extract and Butter, Then Chill

Once it’s thickened and just starting to boil, remove your saucepan from heat, then stir in the rum extract and butter pieces until silky smooth. For an ultra-smooth texture, I strain the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. I promise it’s worth the wait!

How to Serve Eggnog Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

My favorite way to serve this pudding is topped with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream, a light dusting of grated whole nutmeg for that warm, spicy aroma, and those irresistibly festive sugared cranberries I make alongside it. They add a lovely tart crunch that balances the sweetness perfectly. I honestly think these garnishes elevate the pudding from delicious to unforgettable every time.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving this pudding as part of a holiday spread, it pairs beautifully with spiced cookies like ginger snaps or shortbread, and soft Christmas bread. For a lighter option, some toasted nuts or fruit compote on the side complements the creaminess without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving this pudding in individual glass jars or mini mason jars—so cute and festive! Layering with crushed gingerbread cookies at the bottom adds texture and a surprise crunch. Another trick I discovered is scooping the pudding into elegant dessert glasses and topping with edible gold leaf or cinnamon sticks for a fancy holiday party touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store any leftover eggnog pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and creamy for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again to refresh the texture.

Freezing

I’ve tried freezing this pudding, but honestly, the texture changes a bit and can get grainy once thawed. If you want to freeze it, I recommend turning it into a semi-frozen treat like a semifreddo by partially freezing and whipping it occasionally to keep creaminess.

Reheating

This pudding is best served chilled, so I don’t usually reheat leftovers. If you prefer it warm, gently heat it on low in a saucepan, stirring constantly until just warmed through—avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Eggnog Pudding Recipe turns out—its rich flavors and creamy texture feel like a warm hug wrapped in holiday traditions. When I first tried it, I was surprised by how simple it was to make yet so luxurious to eat. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just treating yourself, I’m confident you’ll enjoy every spoonful. Give it a try and make it your own with toppings and tweaks that excite you. Trust me, once you taste this pudding, you’ll be adding it to your dessert rotation season after season.

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