Place egg yolks and sugar in the bowl of your stand mixer, fitted with the whisk (or a large bowl) and whisk at medium-high speed until thick and pale for 3-5 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat milk, cream, cloves, cinnamon stick (if using), nutmeg and vanilla bean and seeds in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, whisking constantly.
Pour 1 cup of the spiced, hot milk mixture into the yolk and sugar mixture in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly.
Gradually pour the milk and yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until it is thick enough to coat slightly the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F (70ºC). Do not let it simmer.
Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl and discard the vanilla bean, cloves and cinnamon stick. Whisk in bourbon (and/or rum), if using, and let cool completely.
Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate to cool completely for about 1 hour (better overnight).
Serve chilled sprinkled with nutmeg. You can serve it with a dollop of either whipped cream or stir in some whipped egg whites.Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Notas
- Serve it nicely chilled with a dollop of either whipped cream or stir in some whipped egg whites. - National eggnog day: December 24th.
Recipe by Pemberley Cup & Cakes at https://pemberleycupandcakes.com/en/2015/01/06/classic-eggnog/