Secret-Recipe Eggnog

Step 1 -In a medium bowl, whip together the egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy.

Step 2 -In a saucepan over medium-high heat on the stove-top, combine the whipping cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt, stirring and bringing to a bare simmer.

Step 3 -Once the milk mixture reaches a bare simmer, pour a large spoonful of it into the egg and sugar mixture while whisking the eggs and sugar intensely. Gradually add more of the milk mixture to the egg mixture in the same manner, so you can temper the eggs and thus prevent scrambling.

Step 4 -Once you have added most of the milk mixture to the egg mixture, pour the egg and milk mixture back into the saucepan on the stove.

Step 5 -Whisk over the heat until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. If using a food thermometer, it should read 160 degrees F.

Step 6 -Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla.

Step 7 -Pour the eggnog into a pitcher, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until cool.

Step 8 -Serve chilled with cinnamon and whipped cream.