Egg Nog

6 large eggs, lightly beaten
3/4 cup sugar
2 cups milk
1 cup brandy (optional)
1/4 cup rum (optional)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups whipping cream
Garnishes: whipped cream, grated fresh nutmeg

Stir together egg and sugar in a large saucepan; gradually stir in milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 18 to 20 minutes or until mixture thickens and coats a metal spoon. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla and if using, brandy and rum. Cover and chill 8 hours.

Beat whipping cream at high speed with an electric mixer until soft peaks form; fold into chilled egg mixture. Garnish, if desired. Yield: 8 cups. Prep: 30 min., Chill: 8 hrs.