Recipe Details

Ingredients

• 4 c. 

  whole milk

• 2/3 c. 

  granulated sugar

• 1 

  (3" to 4") cinnamon stick; plus more for serving (optional)

• 2 

  whole cloves

• 6 

  large egg yolks, beaten

• 1/4 

  to 1/2 c. rum or brandy

• 1 tsp. 

  pure vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp. 

  kosher salt

• Ground cinnamon, for serving

Description

1. Step 1In a large saucepan over medium heat, bring milk, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves to a low boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is reduced by about one-third, 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool to room temperature.
2. Step 2Whisking constantly, slowly pour in egg yolks. Return pot to stove and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture resembles an eggnog-like consistency and coats the back of a wooden spoon, 10 to 12 minutes more.
3. Step 3Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pitcher. Stir in rum, vanilla, and salt.
4. Step 4Serve warm or chilled. Garnish glasses with ground cinnamon and a cinnamon stick (if using).