Eggnog Pudding with Sugared Cranberries and Nutmeg Recipe

Introduction

Eggnog pudding is a creamy, festive dessert that captures the rich flavors of classic holiday eggnog in a smooth, silky pudding. It’s perfect for celebrating the season or finishing any meal with a seasonal touch.

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 (recipe below), for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a glass measuring cup, combine the eggnog and heavy cream. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground nutmeg.
3. Step 3: Add the egg yolks to the saucepan and whisk until smooth and fully combined with the dry ingredients.
4. Step 4: Slowly pour the eggnog and cream mixture into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
5. Step 5: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens and begins to boil, about 8 to 10 minutes. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon. Continue boiling for 30 seconds more.
6. Step 6: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the rum extract and butter pieces until fully melted and the pudding is smooth. Strain the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl for extra smoothness.
7. Step 7: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the pudding surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
8. Step 8: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, a dusting of grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries for a festive finish.

Tips & Variations

• For a boozy kick, substitute rum extract with 1 to 2 tablespoons of your favorite rum or bourbon.
• If you prefer a lighter dessert, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream combined with eggnog.
• Sugared cranberries can be made by tossing fresh cranberries in a simple syrup, then coating them with granulated sugar and letting them dry.
• To avoid lumps, whisk continuously while cooking and strain the pudding before chilling.

Storage

Store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep garnishes separate until serving. To reheat, warm gently on low heat while stirring or enjoy chilled for best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make eggnog pudding without eggs?

This recipe relies on egg yolks to thicken and give a creamy texture. For an egg-free version, you can try using a cornstarch-thickened eggnog custard base, but the flavor and texture will differ.

How do I prevent the pudding from forming a skin while cooling?

Pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding before chilling prevents a skin from forming and keeps the texture smooth.

Eggnog Pudding with Sugared Cranberries and Nutmeg Recipe

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4.4 from 56 reviews

This Eggnog Pudding is a creamy, festive dessert perfect for the holiday season. Made from rich eggnog, egg yolks, and a touch of rum extract, it is thickened on the stovetop to a luscious custard-like consistency. Topped with whipped cream, grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries, this pudding is both comforting and elegant to serve at any winter gathering.

• Author: liam
• 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

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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

Toppings

• Whipped cream
• Grated whole nutmeg, for garnish
• Sugared cranberries (recipe below)

Instructions

1. Combine Eggnog and Cream: In a glass measuring cup, mix together the eggnog and heavy whipping cream. Set this mixture aside to be incorporated later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground nutmeg until thoroughly combined.
3. Add Egg Yolks: Add the 4 large egg yolks to the dry mixture and whisk until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
4. Incorporate Eggnog Mixture: Slowly pour the eggnog and cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling and to ensure a smooth blend.
5. Cook the Pudding: Place the saucepan over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir constantly as you cook until the mixture thickens and starts to boil, about 8 to 10 minutes. The pudding is ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Allow it to boil for an additional 30 seconds while stirring continuously.
6. Finish the Pudding: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the rum extract and butter pieces until they melt completely and the mixture becomes smooth. For an extra smooth texture, strain the pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a separate bowl.
7. Chill: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the pudding surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the pudding to set and the flavors to meld.
8. Serve: Before serving, garnish the pudding with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg, and sugared cranberries. Enjoy this delightful holiday treat!

Notes

• Ensure constant stirring during cooking to prevent curdling or burning on the bottom of the pan.
• Straining the pudding after cooking creates a silky smooth texture, but this step can be skipped if desired.
• The sugared cranberries add a festive touch and balance the creamy sweetness of the pudding with a tart flavor.
• This pudding can be made a day ahead to save time and enhance flavor.
• For an alcohol-free version, simply omit the rum extract or substitute with vanilla extract.

Keywords: eggnog pudding, holiday dessert, creamy pudding, festive dessert, stovetop pudding, egg yolk pudding, rum extract dessert