Homemade Eggnog Pudding

When the holiday season rolls around, certain flavors instantly bring comfort and nostalgia—and eggnog is one of them. Rich, creamy, and warmly spiced, eggnog has long been associated with cozy evenings, festive gatherings, and cherished traditions. This homemade eggnog pudding takes everything you love about classic eggnog and transforms it into a luscious, spoonable dessert that feels both familiar and new.

Smooth, velvety, and delicately spiced, eggnog pudding is an easy dessert that delivers big flavor without requiring complicated techniques. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, cookie exchanges, or anytime you want a comforting treat that feels a little special.

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Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Pudding

This pudding is a standout holiday dessert for so many reasons:

• Ultra-creamy texture
• Classic eggnog flavor
• Simple stovetop method
• Make-ahead friendly
• Elegant but comforting

It’s rich without being heavy, sweet without being cloying, and spiced just enough to feel festive.

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What Makes Eggnog Pudding Special

Traditional eggnog is made with milk, eggs, sugar, and warm spices like nutmeg. This pudding uses those same elements but thickens them gently with cornstarch, creating a dessert that’s silky smooth and deeply comforting.

Unlike store-bought pudding mixes, this homemade version allows you to control the sweetness and spice, resulting in a more balanced and authentic flavor.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses classic pantry ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Whole milk
• Egg yolks
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Unsalted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Each ingredient contributes to the pudding’s luxurious texture and nostalgic flavor.

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How to Make Homemade Eggnog Pudding

This recipe comes together on the stovetop with just a little attention.

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken.
4. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks.
5. Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.
6. Return the egg mixture to the saucepan.
7. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, whisking constantly, until thick and smooth.
8. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
9. Pour pudding into serving dishes.
10. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent skin from forming.
11. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
12. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh nutmeg before serving.

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Pro Tips for Silky-Smooth Pudding

Whisk constantly.
This prevents lumps and scorching.

Temper the eggs slowly.
This avoids scrambling the yolks.

Strain if needed.
For extra-smooth pudding, strain before chilling.

Chill thoroughly.
The pudding thickens more as it cools.

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Festive Variations

Make this pudding your own:

• Extra spice: Add cinnamon or cloves
• Boozy twist: Add a splash of rum or bourbon
• Lighter version: Use 2% milk
• Dairy-free: Use coconut milk
• Layered dessert: Serve with gingersnap crumbs

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How to Serve Eggnog Pudding

This dessert is incredibly versatile:

• Serve in small dessert cups
• Layer in parfait glasses
• Top with whipped cream and shaved chocolate
• Garnish with cinnamon sticks or nutmeg

It’s elegant enough for holiday entertaining but easy enough for casual nights in.

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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make ahead:
Prepare up to 2 days in advance.

Storage:
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days.

Avoid reheating:
Eggnog pudding is best served chilled.

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A Cozy Holiday Dessert You’ll Make Every Year

This homemade eggnog pudding captures the warmth and comfort of the holidays in every spoonful. Creamy, spiced, and nostalgic, it’s a dessert that feels festive without being fussy.

Once you try it, it’s sure to become a new holiday tradition—one you’ll look forward to year after year.