I LOVE to bake and that helps Santa keep his round belly when he “taste tests” all of the food and drink that I whip up. I know that many of you like to try out new baking ideas so I’m going to share some of my favorite holiday recipes and baking tips here for you to try (be sure to ask an adult first!).  Enjoy!

Homemade Egg Nog!

Egg Nog has starting showing up in stores but did you know you can make this delicious treat at home? You wont believe how easy and DELICIOUS homemade eggnog is, and this recipe really is the best! Thick and creamy with the perfect flavor! You’ll never ask your parents to buy store-bought eggnog again!

Ingredients:

• • 12 large eggs
  • 1-1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 8 cups whole milk, divided
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • Additional nutmeg, optional

Directions:

• • In a heavy saucepan, whisk together eggs, sugar and salt. Gradually add 4 cups milk; cook and stir over low heat until a thermometer reads 160°-170°, 30-35 minutes. Do not allow to boil. Immediately transfer to a large bowl.
  • Stir in vanilla, nutmeg and remaining milk. Place bowl in an ice-water bath, stirring until milk mixture is cool. (If mixture separates, process in a blender until smooth.) Refrigerate, covered, until cold, at least 3 hours.
  • To serve, beat cream until soft peaks form. Whisk gently into cooled milk mixture. If desired, sprinkle with additional nutmeg before serving.

Test Kitchen Tips:

• • Eggnog may be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for several days. Whisk it before serving.
  • If you’re entertaining the 21-and-over crowd, spike this easy eggnog recipe with bourbon or dark rum.

Nutrition Facts (1 cup):

• • 411 calories
  • 25g fat (14g saturated fat)
  • 247mg cholesterol
  • 251mg sodium
  • 35g carbohydrate (35g sugars, 0 fiber)
  • 13g protein.