1-First Step: Mise en place Gather all ingredients and measure them. Separate the steps in bowls and have a whisk and a fine mesh sieve ready. If you plan to add alcohol, measure 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup total and set aside to add after cooking. For safety, have a candy or instant-read thermometer ready if you want exact temperature control.

2-Second Step: Beat the eggs and sugar Whisk 6 large egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar together in a medium bowl until the mixture is light and creamy. This aerates the yolks and helps create the smooth custard texture that defines a traditional eggnog recipe.

3-Third Step: Heat the dairy In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 2 cups milk, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently until the mixture reaches a bare simmer. You want small bubbles around the edge, not a rolling boil.

4-Fourth Step: Temper the eggs Temper the eggs by gradually adding big spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture while whisking vigorously. Repeat until most of the hot mixture is incorporated. This prevents scrambled eggs and yields a silky custard base.

5-Fifth Step: Finish cooking Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan. Over medium-low heat, whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until it slightly thickens or reaches about 160 degrees F. The mixture will thicken more as it cools. If you do not have a thermometer, the custard should coat the back of a spoon.

6-Sixth Step: Flavor and strain Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract and any optional alcohol (brand y, bourbon, rum, or whisky) if you are making spiked eggnog. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a container to remove any tiny cooked bits for a perfectly smooth drink.

7-Seventh Step: Chill and adjust Cover the container with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled. For a thinner, completely smooth consistency, blend the mixture with 1 or 2 tablespoons of milk before serving. Shaking or blending before serving helps if separation occurs in the fridge.

8-Final Step: Serve Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg and whipped cream if desired. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week. For adult gatherings, add a splash more alcohol to each cup to taste.