Homemade Eggnog Pudding with Sugared Cranberries Recipe

If you’re searching for a festive and luscious dessert that captures the cozy spirit of the holidays, this Homemade Eggnog Pudding with Sugared Cranberries Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a creamy, velvety pudding infused with the rich flavors of eggnog and nutmeg, perfectly spiced with a hint of rum extract, all topped with the bright, tart crunch of sugared cranberries. It’s comfort in a bowl with a touch of elegance, ideal for sharing around the table or treating yourself after a chilly day. Ready in just minutes but with the depth of a show-stopping dessert, this recipe combines nostalgia and festive cheer in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet thoughtfully chosen to build the perfect balance of creaminess, spice, and sweetness. Each one plays a unique role, from the smooth richness of eggnog to the zing of nutmeg, creating the pudding’s signature holiday flavor and velvety texture.

• 2½ cups eggnog: The star of the dish, providing that classic, creamy holiday base packed with nutmeg and vanilla notes.
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream: Adds extra richness and body for the pudding’s perfect smoothness.
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens gently, balancing the spice and tartness of the toppings.
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch: Essential for thickening the pudding to that satisfying custard-like consistency.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming one-dimensional.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Boosts the warm spice profile that’s signature to eggnog treats.
• 4 large egg yolks: Provide richness and help create that silky pudding texture.
• 1 teaspoon rum extract: Adds a wonderful depth and holiday spirit without the alcohol.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces: Finishes the pudding with added creaminess and sheen.
• Whipped cream: For topping, adding lightness and a cloud of sweetness.
• Grated whole nutmeg: A fresh sprinkle elevates aroma and presentation.
• Sugared cranberries: The perfect tart, sparkling garnish that contrasts the creamy pudding beautifully.

How to Make Homemade Eggnog Pudding with Sugared Cranberries Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Creamy Base

Start by mixing your eggnog and heavy whipping cream together in a glass measuring cup. This blend forms the silky canvas for your pudding, marrying rich creaminess with the festive eggnog flavor, so set this aside and let those holiday vibes begin.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, and ground nutmeg. This dry mixture is the secret to that thick, spiced texture we all crave. The nutmeg will start sending out its warm, inviting aroma right away, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg Yolks

Add the egg yolks to the dry mixture and whisk until everything is smooth and fully combined. This step enriches the pudding base, giving it that custardy softness that clings beautifully to a spoon.

Step 4: Combine Liquids and Yolks with Care

Slowly pour the eggnog and cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This gradual process keeps the eggs from scrambling and ensures a perfectly smooth batter, so take your time here for the best results.

Step 5: Cook Until Thickened

Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously. Watch as your pudding slowly thickens, reaching a luscious, creamy consistency that just starts to bubble—that’s about 8 to 10 minutes. Once it comes to a boil, keep stirring and let it boil for 30 more seconds to activate the cornstarch fully.

Step 6: Add the Flavor Finishing Touches

Remove the pudding from the heat and stir in the rum extract and butter pieces. The rum extract brings that classic eggnog depth, while the butter melts into the pudding to give it a gorgeous glossy finish and silkiness that melts in your mouth.

Step 7: Strain for Silky Smoothness

Pour your pudding through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This simple step ensures any tiny lumps are caught, resulting in the creamiest, smoothest dessert base imaginable.

Step 8: Chill the Pudding

Cover the pudding’s surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The chilling process helps it fully set, so be patient—it will be worth the wait!

Step 9: Prepare the Sugared Cranberries

Make your sugared cranberries by coating fresh cranberries in sugar syrup, then rolling them in granulated sugar. Let them dry until sparkling and firm. These tart jewels provide a stunning and delicious contrast that perfects your pudding presentation.

Step 10: Serve with Festive Flair

Just before serving, dollop whipped cream on top, dust with freshly grated nutmeg, and scatter your sugared cranberries over the pudding. This final touch creates a delightful medley of textures and tastes that will wow your guests or treat yourself to a beautiful holiday indulgence.

How to Serve Homemade Eggnog Pudding with Sugared Cranberries Recipe

Garnishes

For an irresistible presentation, generous dollops of whipped cream crowned with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg bring lightness and aromatic warmth. The sugared cranberries add an eye-catching pop of jewel-like color and a pleasant tartness that pairs exquisitely with the sweet pudding.

Side Dishes

This pudding pairs wonderfully with buttery shortbread cookies or spiced pecans for some extra crunch. You could even serve it alongside a hot cup of mulled cider or cocoa to keep the cozy theme alive throughout your dessert course.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pudding in individual glass jars or elegant glassware, layering with whipped cream and garnishes between spoonfuls for a beautiful parfait effect. Or use small ramekins topped with sugared cranberries to create charming single-serve desserts that look sophisticated but are so easy to assemble.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pudding can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly sealed to preserve its creamy texture and prevent it from absorbing any other fridge odors. Give it a gentle stir before serving to restore its silky consistency.

Freezing

This pudding is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, as freezing can alter its texture, making it grainy once thawed. If you must freeze, store in an airtight container and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, though you may notice some slight separation.

Reheating

If you prefer a warm pudding, gently reheat leftovers over low heat on the stove while stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Add a splash of milk or cream if the pudding feels too thick, heating until just warm — never boiling — for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought eggnog for this pudding?

Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly and saves time. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand with good flavor, as it’s the foundation of the pudding’s taste.

Is there a non-dairy alternative for the heavy cream?

You can substitute coconut cream or a rich oat-based cream for the heavy cream if you prefer dairy-free options. This will slightly change the flavor but maintain the creamy texture.

How long do sugared cranberries keep?

Sugared cranberries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They maintain their sparkle and crunch, making them great to prepare ahead of time.

Can I make this pudding without eggs?

The egg yolks play a crucial role in thickening and enriching the pudding. While you could try using a cornstarch-based thickener alone, it won’t have the same silky, custard-like texture that eggs provide.

What if I don’t have rum extract?

If you don’t have rum extract on hand, you can substitute with a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of real rum if you prefer, adjusting to taste. Each option imparts its own lovely warmth to the pudding.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Eggnog Pudding with Sugared Cranberries Recipe is a joyous way to bring festive cheer to your dessert table. It’s humble in its ingredients but elevated by its flavors and textures, offering a cozy yet elegant treat that you can proudly serve year after year. Whether for holiday gatherings or a special wintry night in, I hope you find as much joy making and savoring this pudding as I do!

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