Name: Low Fat Eggnog Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 7
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups 1% milk; 1 vanilla bean; 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup sugar; 1 tsp cornstarch; nutmeg; spiced rum

Indulge in the festive spirit with a lighter twist on the traditional holiday beverage. This low-fat eggnog maintains all the creamy, spiced goodness you love, but with fewer calories.

Photos of Low Fat Eggnog Recipe

When shopping for this recipe, be sure to get a vanilla bean, which might not be a staple in every household. You can find it in the spice or baking aisle of most supermarkets. Additionally, opt for 1% milk to keep the fat content low, and don't forget the spiced rum if you want a boozy kick.

Ingredients For Low Fat Eggnog Recipe

1% milk: A lower-fat alternative to whole milk, providing a creamy texture with fewer calories.

Vanilla bean: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the eggnog; found in the spice or baking aisle.

Eggs: Essential for creating the custard-like base of the eggnog.

Sugar: Sweetens the eggnog to balance out the spices.

Cornstarch: Used to thicken the mixture without adding extra fat.

Nutmeg: A classic spice for eggnog, adding warmth and depth.

Spiced rum: Optional, but adds a festive kick to the drink.

One reader, Benji Israel says:

This low fat eggnog recipe is fantastic! It's creamy, flavorful, and guilt-free. The hint of vanilla and nutmeg makes it perfect for the holidays. Plus, it's easy to make. Highly recommend!

Benji Israel

Mastering the Art of Low Fat Eggnog: Key Techniques

How to split a vanilla bean: Use a sharp knife to cut the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with the back of the knife. How to temper eggs: Gradually add hot liquid to the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly and turning into scrambled eggs. How to thicken eggnog: Stir the mixture constantly over medium heat until it begins to thicken, ensuring it doesn't boil to avoid curdling.

How To Make Low Fat Eggnog

Reminisce childhood Christmas joys with this classic and low fat eggnog recipe that is creamy and rich, better than the store-bought eggnog.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cups1% milk
1vanilla bean
2largeeggs
⅓cupsugar
1tspcornstarch
nutmeg,freshly grated, to garnish
spiced rum,or bourbon, optional, extra points

Instructions

Heat 2-½ cups of milk in a medium saucepan.
Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Add the seeds and pod to the saucepan, and simmer over medium heat.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch until it turns light yellow.
Temper the eggs by gradually pouring the hot milk mixture, about 1 cup at a time, into the egg mixture, whisking constantly (this is important, otherwise, you’ll make scrambled eggs).
Pour the mixture back into the pan.
Place over medium heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the eggnog begins to thicken, in about 6 to 7 minutes.
Remove from the heat and immediately stir in the remaining ½ cup milk to stop the cooking.
Remove the vanilla pod, let it cool, and transfer to a pitcher. Chill until ready to serve.
Spike the eggnog with liquor, if desired, and garnish with nutmeg.

Recipe Notes

Nutrition

Calories: 104.71kcal
Fat: 2.37g
Saturated Fat: 1.11g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.81g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.31g
Carbohydrates: 15.28g
Fiber: 0.00g
Sugar: 15.09g
Protein: 5.32g
Cholesterol: 58.37mg
Sodium: 66.49mg
Calcium: 138.90mg
Potassium: 177.83mg
Iron: 0.29mg
Vitamin A: 83.51µg

Streamlining Your Low Fat Eggnog Recipe for Efficiency

Use pre-ground nutmeg: Save time by using pre-ground nutmeg instead of grating it fresh.

Skip the vanilla bean: Substitute the vanilla bean with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to save time on scraping and simmering.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Use a blender: Blend the milk, eggs, sugar, and cornstarch together to save time on whisking.

Chill faster: Pour the eggnog into a shallow dish to cool it faster in the fridge.

Substitute Ingredients For Low Fat Eggnog Recipe

1% milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk is lower in calories and fat, making it a good alternative for a low-fat recipe.
vanilla bean - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract provides a similar flavor profile and is more readily available and cost-effective.
large eggs - Substitute with egg whites: Using egg whites reduces the fat and cholesterol content while still providing the necessary texture and binding properties.
sugar - Substitute with stevia: Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener that can help reduce the overall calorie content of the recipe.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a similar thickening agent that is often considered more natural and can be used in the same quantity.
nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon offers a warm, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients well and can be used as a flavorful alternative.
spiced rum - Substitute with bourbon: Bourbon provides a similar depth of flavor and warmth, making it a suitable substitute for spiced rum.

Serving Suggestions for a Delightful Eggnog Experience

Use elegant glassware: Serve the eggnog in crystal-clear, stemmed glasses to elevate its presentation. The transparency of the glass will showcase the creamy texture and the delicate color of the eggnog.
Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg: Just before serving, grate fresh nutmeg over the top of the eggnog. The aromatic spice will not only enhance the flavor but also add a visually appealing touch.
Add a vanilla bean garnish: After removing the vanilla bean pod from the mixture, rinse it and let it dry. Use it as a garnish by placing it across the rim of the glass. This adds a sophisticated touch and hints at the rich vanilla flavor within.
Incorporate a cinnamon stick: Place a cinnamon stick in each glass. It serves as a stirrer and infuses the eggnog with a subtle, warm spice, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Serve with a side of spiced rum: Offer a small, elegant carafe of spiced rum on the side. This allows guests to customize their eggnog to their liking, adding a personal touch to the presentation.
Chill the glasses: Before serving, chill the glasses in the refrigerator. This ensures that the eggnog stays cold longer, providing a refreshing experience from the first sip to the last.
Use a silver tray: Present the eggnog glasses on a polished silver tray. The reflective surface will enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of luxury to the presentation.
Add a festive touch: Decorate the tray with a few sprigs of fresh holly or rosemary. This adds a seasonal, festive element that complements the holiday spirit of eggnog.
Serve with a small dessert: Pair the eggnog with a delicate, bite-sized dessert like a macaron or a petit four. This adds an extra layer of indulgence and sophistication to the presentation.

Essential Equipment for Crafting the Perfect Low Fat Eggnog

Medium saucepan: Used to heat the milk and infuse it with the vanilla bean.
Vanilla bean scraper: A small tool to scrape out the seeds from the vanilla bean.
Large bowl: Used to whisk the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch together.
Whisk: Essential for whisking the egg mixture and tempering the eggs with the hot milk.
Wooden spoon: Used to stir the eggnog mixture constantly as it thickens.
Pitcher: For transferring the eggnog to chill until ready to serve.
Measuring cups: To measure the milk and sugar accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure the cornstarch and spiced rum accurately.
Nutmeg grater: For grating fresh nutmeg over the eggnog as a garnish.

Preserving the Goodness: Storing and Freezing Low Fat Eggnog

Pour the eggnog into an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. This will help prevent any unwanted odors from seeping into the eggnog and keep it fresh for longer.
Store the eggnog in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The key is to keep it chilled at all times to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage.
If you want to keep the eggnog for an extended period, you can freeze it for up to 6 months. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing, and the eggnog may separate.
To freeze, pour the eggnog into a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. Label the container with the date and amount of eggnog.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen eggnog, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Give it a good stir or shake before serving to redistribute any separated ingredients. If the texture seems off, you can blend it briefly to smooth it out.
If you've spiked the eggnog with rum or other liquors, keep in mind that it won't freeze solid due to the alcohol content. The alcohol will also help preserve the eggnog, so it may keep for a bit longer in the fridge, up to 7-10 days.

Reviving Leftover Eggnog: Reheating Tips and Tricks

To reheat leftover low fat eggnog, start by pouring the desired amount into a saucepan. Place the pan over low heat and stir the eggnog constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon to prevent scorching and ensure even heating.
As you reheat the eggnog, be careful not to let it boil, as this can cause the eggs to curdle and ruin the smooth texture. Keep the heat low and stir patiently until the eggnog reaches your desired temperature.
If you find that the eggnog has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out by whisking in a small amount of milk while reheating. This will help restore its original consistency.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Pour the eggnog into a microwave-safe container and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval, until it reaches the desired temperature. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the eggnog to curdle or develop hot spots.
If you want to add a festive touch to your reheated eggnog, consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg or a cinnamon stick. This will enhance the aroma and flavor of the drink.
For an adult version, you can spike the reheated eggnog with a shot of spiced rum, bourbon, or brandy. Stir the liquor in just before serving to ensure a well-balanced flavor.
If you have a large batch of leftover eggnog, consider reheating only the portion you plan to serve and leaving the rest in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the quality and freshness of the eggnog for future servings.

Fascinating Trivia About Low Fat Eggnog

A unique aspect of this low fat eggnog recipe is the use of cornstarch as a thickening agent. This helps achieve a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream, making it a lighter alternative to traditional eggnog.

Budget-Friendly Eggnog: Is Low Fat Eggnog Cost-Effective?

This low fat eggnog recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using 1% milk and basic pantry staples like eggs, sugar, and cornstarch, it keeps expenses low. The only slightly pricier ingredient is the vanilla bean, but it adds a rich flavor. Optional spiced rum can be skipped to save money. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $6-$8 USD.

Is Low Fat Eggnog a Healthy Choice?

This low-fat eggnog recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional eggnog, which is typically high in fat and calories. By using 1% milk instead of whole milk or cream, the recipe significantly reduces the amount of saturated fat. The use of a vanilla bean adds natural flavor without the need for excessive sugar or artificial flavorings.

However, the recipe still contains a considerable amount of sugar (⅓ cup) and the addition of spiced rum increases the calorie content. While the cornstarch helps thicken the eggnog without the need for heavy cream, it is a refined carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes.

To further improve the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the sugar content by using a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract, or simply decrease the amount of sugar used
Replace the cornstarch with a healthier thickening agent, such as chia seeds or ground flax seeds, which provide additional fiber and nutrients
Use organic, free-range eggs to ensure higher quality and nutritional value
Opt for a lower-calorie alcoholic option, such as vodka or gin, or skip the alcohol altogether to reduce the calorie content
Increase the nutrient density by adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder or a handful of nuts for healthy fats and protein

By incorporating these changes, you can create a more nutritious and guilt-free version of this classic holiday beverage while still enjoying the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog.

Our Editor's Take on This Delectable Low Fat Eggnog Recipe

This low-fat eggnog recipe is a delightful twist on a holiday classic, offering a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. The use of 1% milk and cornstarch helps maintain a creamy texture while keeping the fat content low. The vanilla bean adds a rich, aromatic depth, and tempering the eggs ensures a smooth consistency. The option to spike with spiced rum allows for a festive touch. Overall, it's a balanced and thoughtful recipe that caters to health-conscious individuals without compromising on the indulgent essence of traditional eggnog.

Enhance Your Low Fat Eggnog Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety butternut squash soup, its natural sweetness enhanced by a hint of cinnamon. This warm, comforting bowl pairs perfectly with the creamy, spiced notes of your low-fat eggnog.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: A refreshing salad featuring tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and crisp greens. The tangy vinaigrette dressing will cut through the richness of the eggnog, creating a harmonious balance.

Maple Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a touch of maple syrup and a sprinkle of thyme. These sweet and savory bites will complement the spiced undertones of your festive drink.

Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus: Crisp asparagus spears wrapped in salty prosciutto and roasted to perfection. The savory, slightly smoky flavor will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy eggnog.

Apple Cinnamon Tart: A delicate tart filled with spiced apples and a hint of cinnamon. The flaky crust and warm filling will echo the comforting spices in your eggnog, making for a perfect pairing.

Exploring Eggnog Variations: Alternative Recipes to Try

Vanilla Chia Pudding: Indulge in a creamy, guilt-free treat with this vanilla chia pudding. It's a delightful blend of chia seeds, almond milk, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for breakfast or a light dessert, this pudding is packed with fiber and omega-3s.

Spiced Almond Milk: Warm up with a cozy cup of spiced almond milk. Infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of honey, this drink is both soothing and nutritious. It's a wonderful alternative to traditional hot chocolate.

Pumpkin Spice Smoothie: Blend up a taste of autumn with this pumpkin spice smoothie. Combining pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, and a mix of spices, this smoothie is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall while staying healthy.

Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal: Start your day with a bowl of cinnamon apple oatmeal. This hearty breakfast features rolled oats, fresh apples, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It's a warm and comforting way to fuel your morning.

Maple Pecan Granola: Crunch into a batch of maple pecan granola. Made with rolled oats, pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup, this granola is perfect for topping yogurt or enjoying as a snack. It's sweet, nutty, and utterly satisfying.

Why trust this Low Fat Eggnog Recipe:

This low-fat eggnog recipe is a healthier twist on a classic holiday favorite. By using 1% milk and a touch of cornstarch, it maintains a creamy texture without the extra calories. The addition of a real vanilla bean ensures a rich, authentic flavor. Plus, tempering the eggs prevents curdling, guaranteeing a smooth and velvety drink. Whether you enjoy it spiked with spiced rum or simply garnished with nutmeg, this recipe is both delicious and guilt-free.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this low fat eggnog recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of milk like almond milk, soy milk, or even whole milk if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might change slightly.

How long can I store the eggnog in the fridge?

You can store the eggnog in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Can I make this eggnog without alcohol?

Absolutely! The eggnog tastes great on its own without any alcohol. Just skip the spiced rum step and enjoy it as a non-alcoholic treat.

What can I use if I don't have a vanilla bean?

If you don't have a vanilla bean, you can use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract instead. Add it to the milk mixture when you start heating it.

How do I avoid making scrambled eggs when tempering the eggs?

The key is to pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture very slowly while whisking constantly. This gradual process helps to gently raise the temperature of the eggs without cooking them too quickly.