Old Fashioned Eggnog

Directions

1. 1
   In a large saucepan, combine the milk, 1/2 cup of the sugar, and vanilla bean and seeds and bring to a gentle boil.
2. 2
   Remove from the heat.
3. 3
   In a medium bowl, beat the yolks until pale yellow and thick, 2 to 3 minutes.
4. 4
   Slowly pour in 1 cup of the hot milk, whisking constantly.
5. 5
   Pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan with the hot milk, whisking.
6. 6
   Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heavy wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
7. 7
   Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a clean container.
8. 8
   Cover with plastic wrap, pressing down against the surface to keep a skin from forming.
9. 9
   Refrigerate until well chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight.
10. 10
    In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks start to form.
11. 11
    Slowly add 1/4 cup of the sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
12. 12
    In a large bowl with clean beaters, beat the cream until thick and frothy.
13. 13
    Add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat to soft peaks.
14. 14
    In a large punch bowl, combine the chilled egg yolk mixture and the bourbon and brandy.
15. 15
    Fold in the sweetened whipped cream, then the egg whites.
16. 16
    Refrigerate until chilled, 30 minutes to 1 hour.
17. 17
    To serve, sprinkle nutmeg over the top and garnish with chocolate shavings.
18. 18
    Serve chilled.