Caramel Eggnog

Directions

1. 1
   In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved. Increase heat to medium-high. Cook without stirring until mixture turns an amber color and a candy thermometer reads 300° (hard-crack stage). Remove from the heat; gradually stir in milk.
2. 2
   In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Whisk a small amount of hot milk mixture into eggs; return all to the pan, stirring constantly. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture is thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
3. 3
   Pour into a large bowl; stir in vanilla and nutmeg. Place bowl in an ice-water bath, stirring frequently until cooled. Refrigerate until chilled.
4. 4
   Before serving, whip cream until soft peaks form; fold into eggnog. Top servings with grated nutmeg if desired.