This Easy Homemade Eggnog Ice Cream is a creamy, dreamy treat perfect for the holidays! With a rich eggnog flavor, it’s a fun way to enjoy this festive drink in dessert form.
I love making this ice cream because it’s super simple. Just mix, freeze, and you’re ready to scoop! Plus, it makes my holiday desserts a little bit cooler—literally! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggnog: You can use store-bought eggnog for convenience, but homemade works beautifully too! If you’re dairy-free, try using almond milk or coconut milk eggnog. It may change the flavor, but it can still be delicious!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the ice cream. If you’re looking for lighter options, you could use half-and-half instead, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar: The sugar sweetens the ice cream, but you can substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Just remember that this may affect the final texture and sweetness!
Ground Nutmeg & Cinnamon: Freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon will elevate the flavor. If you don’t have these spices, pumpkin pie spice can be a great all-in-one alternative!
How Do I Get the Creamiest Ice Cream?
Getting the perfect creamy texture is key, and here are some important steps to follow:
- Blend the mixture thoroughly so no sugar granules remain. This helps create a smooth texture.
- Make sure your ice cream maker is fully chilled before pouring in the mixture. Cold equipment is crucial for creamy ice cream!
- Don’t skip the freezing time after churning. This will help firm up the ice cream properly.
And remember, the longer you churn, the creamier your ice cream will be. Just keep an eye on the consistency so it doesn’t get too hard!
Easy Homemade Eggnog Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Spices and Flavor:
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus more for serving
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare and will need at least 4 hours to freeze. So, set aside a little time for preparation, and then let the freezer do the hard work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Whisk together the eggnog, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Make sure to whisk well so the sugar completely dissolves into the creamy mixture.
2. Churn the Mixture:
Next, pour your eggnog mixture into an ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes. You’ll want it to thicken to a soft-serve consistency.
3. Transfer and Sprinkle:
Once it’s ready, transfer the soft ice cream into an airtight container. If you like, add a sprinkle of additional ground nutmeg on top for that extra flavor kick!
4. Freeze to Firm Up:
Put the container in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm enough to scoop. This step is crucial because it helps achieve the perfect texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s time to serve, scoop that creamy eggnog ice cream into bowls or glasses. For a festive touch, you can garnish with cinnamon sticks or a light dusting of nutmeg. Enjoy your homemade treat! 🎉
FAQs for Easy Homemade Eggnog Ice Cream
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, coconut cream, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on your choice.
How Long Does This Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
This eggnog ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For the best texture, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping, as it may harden more than store-bought ice cream.
Can I Make This Recipe Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Yes, you can! Simply pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals until the ice cream is firm and creamy. It may take a little longer, but it’s definitely doable!
What Can I Use Instead of Sugar?
If you want a healthier option, consider using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level and final texture may vary, so adjust to your taste!
