This year, we were inspired by Safest Choice Eggs to try our hands at creating homemade eggnog. I’m not usually a fan of eggnog, but since I was approached by Safest Choice Eggs to review their product and host an Eggnog Recipe Contest (coming on Thursday!) I thought we’d give it a shot. And of course it was wonderful. Creamy, tasty and the perfect drink when enjoying all of those Christmas cookies. In fact, it was so good that we’re making another batch to share with Dad-oo’s family when we travel there in a couple of weeks. I hope they enjoy it!

Kahlua Eggnog

2 cups skim milk
3 whole cloves
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 Safest Choice egg yolks (save those egg whites, they make a great egg sandwich for lunch!)
3/4 cups sugar
2 cups half and half
1 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Kahlua liquor to taste – about 1 tablespoon worked for us (mint, caramel or chocolate are some other great flavors to try)

Combine milk, cloves, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla, and cinnamon in a saucepan, and heat over lowest setting for 5 minutes. Slowly bring milk mixture to a boil.

In a large bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Whisk together until fluffy. Whisk hot milk mixture slowly into the eggs (very, very slowly or the eggs will curdle). Pour mixture into saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3 minutes, or until thick. Do not allow mixture to boil. Strain to remove cloves, and let cool for about an hour.

Stir in half and half, 2 teaspoon vanilla, nutmeg and Kahlua. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

This recipe can easily be doubled, if you have a large crowd to serve. It was just right for our little family.

If you’re interested in learning more about Safest Choice Eggs, head on over to their web site. Or become a Facebook fan for a $1.00/1 coupon. And don’t forget out the Eggnog Recipe Contest coming Thursday!