10 large eggs
2-1/4 cups granulated sugar
2 cups half-and-half
2 cups heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg plus some for garnish
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup bourbon
1/4 cup brandy
6 large egg whites
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, beat together the eggs and sugar. Stir in the half-and-half. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick enough to coat a metal spoon with a thin film and reaches at least 160*F (70*C). Remove from the heat. Stir in the cream, nutmeg, vanilla, bourbon, and brandy. Cool, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Just before serving, beat the egg whites in a large bowl with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form, then fold them into the eggnog. Serve cold in punch cups and sprinkle with nutmeg.
makes 8 to 10 cups.