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Creamy eggnog jam brings the cozy, spiced flavors of the holidays to your breakfast table and beyond. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a luxurious spread that is smooth, rich, and tastes just like a sip of festive eggnog. Perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself, this jam transforms toast, pastries, or pancakes into a holiday treat.
The first time I made this jam, it was meant to be a whim for a brunch, but it quickly became a holiday request. Now everyone asks for a jar of this creamy eggnog jam alongside their cinnamon rolls during winter.
Ingredients
- Eggnog: Choose high quality from your favorite local dairy or make your own for the richest flavor
- Sugar: Ensures a silky texture and brings out all those sweet eggnog notes
- Cornstarch: The key to a creamy thickness Use fresh cornstarch so it dissolves easily
- Vanilla extract: Pick pure vanilla for warmth and depth
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth and makes the jam taste cozy
- Ground nutmeg: Essential for that classic eggnog essence Go for whole nutmeg and grate fresh if you can
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and that signature glossy finish Be sure your butter smells fresh
- Dark rum: Optional but truly brings out authentic old fashioned eggnog flavor Choose one you love to sip
- Powdered pectin: Use if you want a firmer jam texture not required for a softer spread
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Eggnog Base:
- In a medium saucepan whisk the eggnog and cornstarch together until completely smooth with no lumps The cornstarch needs to be fully dissolved for a silky jam Next add the sugar cinnamon and nutmeg Cook the mixture over medium heat stirring without stopping so it does not scorch or curdle Watch for it to thicken and approach a simmer This typically takes about seven minutes and you will notice it turning more custardy
- Add Butter and Flavoring:
- Turn the heat down to medium low and add the unsalted butter Stir gently until all butter melts into the hot mixture Drop in the vanilla extract and dark rum if you are using Stir well to blend everything Let these flavors meld over gentle heat for around two minutes You should smell the spices coming through at this stage
- Thicken the Jam:
- If you prefer a firmer set for the jam sprinkle in the powdered pectin Slowly whisk while you add so clumps do not form Allow the mixture to cook for one to two minutes more Keep moving your whisk to prevent sticking If you want a creamier custard like consistency you may skip the pectin
- Cool and Jar the Jam:
- Take the saucepan off the heat Let the jam cool for about ten minutes It will continue to thicken as it sits Pour the warm jam into clean jars with tightly fitted lids Refrigerate once cool The flavor deepens and the texture becomes beautifully spreadable
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My favorite part has to be the butter which makes every spoonful so velvety and rich My niece always insists on licking the spoon just for that creamy streak Every Christmas morning we slather this jam on hot croissants and those memories are now family tradition
Storage Tips
Store your eggnog jam in tightly sealed glass jars and keep them in the refrigerator for best freshness The jam continues to thicken in the fridge If you want to freeze it be sure to use freezer safe containers and leave enough headspace as the jam expands After thawing give it a good stir back to its creamy state
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer an alcohol free version skip the rum altogether and add a touch more vanilla Want dairy free Use a good oat milk or coconut eggnog along with a vegan butter A pinch of allspice or a bit of orange zest can also add interest without veering from the classic flavor
Serving Suggestions
Creamy eggnog jam is beautiful slathered on toast biscuits or croissants It also makes an excellent filling for thumbprint cookies or dolloped onto warm pancakes I have even used it as a swirl in homemade ice cream for a festive twist Turn any breakfast into a cozy holiday celebration
A Brief History of Eggnog Jam
Eggnog itself has roots dating back to Medieval Europe as a luxurious drink for special occasions Transforming it into a jam is a modern spin that lets those same holiday flavors be enjoyed far beyond a festive glass The tradition in my kitchen started with leftover eggnog after a party and now this jam means the holidays have truly arrived
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This jam is perfect for turning ordinary mornings into festive moments of joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade eggnog instead of store-bought?
Yes, both homemade and store-bought eggnog work well in this spread. Homemade provides customizable flavor and richness.
- → What does the dark rum add?
Dark rum enhances the authentic eggnog flavor, giving the spread extra depth and subtle warmth. It is optional.
- → Do I need to use pectin?
Pectin is optional. It delivers a firmer, more traditional consistency. Without it, the spread is creamier and more custard-like.
- → How should I store the finished jam?
Once cooled, pour into sterilized jars and refrigerate. It keeps well chilled for up to two weeks.
- → Can I serve this with something other than toast?
Absolutely! It’s delicious on pancakes, waffles, scones, or even as a sweet swirl in yogurt or oatmeal.