This one’s cozy, sweet, and full of holiday magic. If you’re someone who waits all year for eggnog season, this Eggnog Jam is for you. It tastes like a creamy eggnog latte and spreads like a dream.
Think of it like Christmas morning on toast—or spooned over pancakes, waffles, or even stirred into your oatmeal. It’s smooth, rich, lightly spiced, and so simple to make.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe came out of a kitchen experiment that turned into a holiday tradition. I wanted that eggnog flavor without drinking a full glass—and this jam delivers. We now make it every December, pop it in little jars, and hand it out as gifts. It always gets a “Wait…this is eggnog??” reaction.
- Creamy and thick like custard
- Spices up toast, pancakes, and desserts
- Great homemade gift idea
- You can make it in 15 minutes
- Keeps in the fridge for weeks
What You’ll Need
- 1½ cups eggnog (use full-fat for best texture)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Servings & Time
Makes: About 1½ cups
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Pro Tips
- Use full-fat eggnog. Low-fat makes the jam too thin.
- Stir constantly while cooking to avoid scrambled eggs.
- Strain the jam if you want it silky smooth.
- Let it cool before jarring—it thickens more as it sits.
- Add a splash of bourbon or rum extract for grown-up flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Clean jar or bowl for storage
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free eggnog (almond or oat-based). Texture may vary slightly.
- Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup or honey in place of sugar, but reduce amount slightly.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for extra spice.
- Boozy Version: Add 1 tsp rum extract or bourbon with the vanilla.
Make Ahead Tips
This jam keeps beautifully. Make it up to a week ahead and store it sealed in the fridge. Flavors deepen after a day or two.
How to Make Eggnog Jam
Step 1: Mix the eggnog, sugar, yolks, and cornstarch
In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1½ cups eggnog, ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 egg yolks, and 1 tbsp cornstarch until smooth.
Step 2: Heat and stir until thickened
Turn the heat to medium and cook the mixture, whisking constantly, for about 7–9 minutes or until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
Step 3: Add nutmeg, butter, vanilla, and salt
Turn off the heat. Stir in ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, 1 tbsp unsalted butter, ½ tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the butter is melted and the jam is smooth.
Step 4: Optional – Strain the jam
For extra smooth jam, pour through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or jar.
Step 5: Cool and jar
Let the jam cool for 10–15 minutes, then spoon into a clean jar or bowl and refrigerate.
Leftovers and Storage
Store your jam in an airtight jar in the fridge. It’ll last up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just leave room in the jar for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The egg yolks and cornstarch are the thickening agents. Eggnog has sugar and dairy, so when you heat it slowly with the yolks and starch, it binds everything into a thick, silky custard. The cornstarch keeps it from curdling and gives it that perfect jammy texture.
Common Mistakes
- Not whisking constantly – This will cause lumps or scrambled eggs.
- High heat – Stick to medium to avoid scorching the bottom.
- Using low-fat eggnog – It won’t set right. Use full-fat!
- Skipping the strainer – If you want silky-smooth jam, straining helps.
What to Serve With Eggnog Jam
- Spread on toast or English muffins
- Dollop on pancakes or waffles
- Stir into warm oatmeal or overnight oats
- Spoon over vanilla ice cream
- Swirl into yogurt
FAQ
Can I can this for shelf storage?
No—this recipe isn’t tested for canning. Keep it refrigerated.
Can I use store-bought eggnog?
Yes! Just go for full-fat versions for best results.
Can I double the recipe?
You sure can—just keep stirring and maybe extend the cooking time slightly.
Does it taste eggy?
Not really! The yolks add creaminess, but the vanilla and nutmeg take over the flavor.
Final Thoughts
Eggnog Jam is one of those simple but magical things you’ll want to make every holiday season. It’s cozy, warm, and tastes like Christmas in a spoon. Whether you gift it or keep it for yourself, it’ll add something special to your mornings. Give it a try and let me know how it turned out—drop a comment with your thoughts or questions. I’d love to hear from you!
