There’s something undeniably cozy about eggnog. That creamy, spiced flavor brings instant warmth and nostalgia, especially when the holiday season rolls around. But what if you could capture that same comforting magic in a spreadable form? Enter Homemade Eggnog Jam – a silky, spoonable jam that brings festive cheer to everything from breakfast toast to warm biscuits and even dessert cheese boards.
This jam isn’t your average preserve. With its custard-like consistency and rich eggnog flavor, it feels indulgent yet familiar. The combination of vanilla, nutmeg, and a splash of rum extract transforms simple ingredients into something special you’ll want to jar and gift all season long.
Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Jam
Homemade Eggnog Jam is more than just a sweet spread; it’s like having the holidays in a jar. It spreads like a dream over warm toast or scones and adds a gourmet touch to simple breakfast or brunch dishes. It also makes an impressive DIY gift, beautifully packaged with a ribbon and tag.
Unlike traditional jams made with fruit, this one leans into creamy richness. It’s thickened with eggs and sugar, flavored with warming spices, and gently cooked to create a velvety texture that screams holiday comfort.
Can I Use Store-Bought Eggnog in Eggnog Jam?
You can, but for the best flavor and consistency, homemade is the way to go. Store-bought eggnog tends to be overly thick and sweet. Making your own allows you to control the sugar and spice levels. If you do use store-bought, choose one that’s not ultra-pasteurized and without artificial flavors.
Ingredients for the Homemade Eggnog Jam
This jam relies on just a handful of ingredients, each chosen to bring that unmistakable eggnog taste to life. It’s creamy, sweet, spiced, and just a little bit fancy.
- Egg yolks
- Granulated sugar
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Nutmeg
- Vanilla extract
- Rum extract (optional but recommended)
- Butter
Each of these plays a key role. Egg yolks give the jam its custard base and luxurious texture. Granulated sugar sweetens while also helping to thicken. Whole milk and heavy cream form the creamy backbone. Nutmeg is the signature eggnog spice, while vanilla and rum extract round out the festive flavor. A touch of butter adds silkiness at the end.

How To Make the Homemade Eggnog Jam
Step 1: Whisk the Base
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until well combined and pale in color. This step helps ensure a smooth texture once heated.
Step 2: Add the Dairy and Spices
Slowly add in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Add the nutmeg, vanilla extract, and rum extract, and continue whisking until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Cook It Low and Slow
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon, making sure to scrape the bottom to prevent scorching. Cook until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon – about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 4: Finish with Butter
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the butter. This adds a rich finish and silky smoothness. Pour the jam into sterilized jars while hot and seal.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Let the jars cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. The jam will continue to set as it chills.
How to Store and Serve Eggnog Jam
This eggnog jam keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to two weeks, as long as it’s stored in a clean, airtight jar. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Once opened, use within 10 days for the freshest flavor.
This recipe yields about 2 to 2½ cups, enough to fill 2 small jars or one larger mason jar. It’s ideal for gifting during the holidays or adding to your breakfast rotation.
For serving, you can use this jam on toast, croissants, English muffins, pancakes, or waffles. It’s also fantastic dolloped on top of cheesecake, swirled into yogurt, or layered in a festive trifle.
What to Serve With Eggnog Jam?
Toasted Brioche
Buttery and soft, brioche is the perfect canvas for this rich jam.
Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky biscuits and creamy eggnog jam? A winter morning must.
Pancakes or Waffles
Drizzle or spread it over your favorite breakfast stack for a seasonal twist.
Cheesecake Topping
A spoonful on top of a plain cheesecake turns it into a holiday dessert.
Yogurt Parfaits
Layer the jam with vanilla yogurt and granola for a spiced breakfast treat.
Cream Cheese and Crackers
Pair it with savory cheese for a sweet-savory bite at your next gathering.
Gingerbread Cookies
Spread a little between two cookies for an eggnog-flavored sandwich cookie.
Want More Holiday Treat Ideas?
If you can’t get enough of seasonal flavors, you’ll love exploring these other festive treats:
- Try the Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake for a rich and fruity dessert.
- The Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies combine crispy, creamy, and spiced in each bite.
- Cozy up with Creamy and Easy Egg Custard Pie – a classic comfort dessert.
- Add some crunch with Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies for the ultimate gooey-sweet snack.
- Or go simple with Classic French Butter Cookies that melt in your mouth.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with rum extract or skip it? Try it with nutmeg or a dash of cinnamon instead?
I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. If you have any questions or tips, drop them below – let’s help each other create delicious memories.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!
Conclusion
Homemade Eggnog Jam brings together the rich, nostalgic flavor of holiday eggnog with the simplicity of a cozy homemade spread. Whether you’re making it for a loved one or treating yourself, it’s sure to become a wintertime favorite. Jar it, gift it, or keep it all to yourself – this is holiday cheer in every spoonful.

Homemade Eggnog Jam
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2.5 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Eggnog Jam recipe captures the cozy flavors of the holidays in a creamy, spiced spread. Made with egg yolks, cream, nutmeg, and a touch of rum extract, it’s the perfect festive treat for toast, biscuits, or gifting. Enjoy this holiday jam recipe with rich eggnog flavor and smooth custard texture.
Ingredients
6 egg yolks
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon rum extract
2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
1. In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale and smooth.
2. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Add nutmeg, vanilla, and rum extract.
3. Cook mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10 to 15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth.
5. Pour hot jam into sterilized jars and seal. Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate.
6. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
This jam continues to thicken as it cools in the fridge.
For the best flavor, use freshly grated nutmeg.
Rum extract adds depth, but you can skip it for an alcohol-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Jam & Spreads
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 18mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
