Old-Fashioned Eggnog

Old-Fashioned Eggnog

SERVINGS: 18
TIME: Prep: 40 min. + chilling

Ingredients:

* 12 eggs
* 1-1/2 cups sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2 quarts milk, divided
* 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
* 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 2 cups whipping cream
* Whipped cream and additional nutmeg, optional

Directions:
In a heavy saucepan, whisk together the eggs, sugar and salt. Gradually add 1-qt. of milk. Cook and stir over low heat until a thermometer reads 160°, about 25 minutes. Pour into a large bowl; stir in vanilla, nutmeg and remaining milk. Place bowl in an ice-water bath; stir frequently until cool. If mixture separates, process in a blender until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

When ready to serve, beat cream in a mixing bowl on high until soft peaks form; whisk gently into cooled mixture. Pour into a chilled 5-qt. punch bowl. If desired, top with dollops of whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg. Yield: 18 servings (about 3 quarts).