Eggnog, the creamy classic co*cktail, is an essential part of the winter holidays. The recipe can vary depending on who’s making it, but the basic formula consists of eggs, sugar, milk and cream, plus a spirit. For the latter, most people turn to bourbon, rum or brandy, and some even elect to combine a couple spirits for oomph. Whichever route you choose, the potency of this drink will put a little more cheer in your holidays.
Eggnog has a rich history with a lot of competing claims as to the origin of the drink, many of which get lost in an etymological debate. It’s possible the word derives from an Old English term for strong beer. Or maybe it comes fromnoggin, an outdated word used to describe a small cup. Or perhaps the name aligns with grogs, the term given to a variety of alcoholic drinks.
That said, it’s believed that the first known use of the word “Eggnog” dates to around 1775, but it’s likely that the drink itself—or a version of it—preceded the term by a couple hundred years. And there seems to be consensus that Eggnog as we know it today is a culinary descendant of Posset, a warm ale punch with eggs that was consumed by European monks as far back as the 13th century.
In Europe, ale was eventually replaced by sherry. By the time the drink reached American shores, colonists replaced sherry with what they had on hand: rum, rye whiskey and brandy. Those early iterations of the co*cktail had staying power, and today, Eggnog is still widely consumed throughout the U.S. and even into Canada. It’s especially popular during the holiday season and can be consumed hot or cold, per the drinker’s preference—and perhaps depending on how brisk the weather outside is.
Regardless of the co*cktail’s origin or which spirit is best suited to the creamy mixture, everyone can agree on this: Eggnog is a universally delicious beverage with the capacity to improve any holiday gathering. And because it’s a good candidate for large batches, you’ll have plenty to keep everyone happy.
Serves 4.
In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3 tablespoons of the sugar until fluffy.
Stir in the milk, heavy cream and your spirit of choice.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar until soft peaks form.
Fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture.
Divide between four rocks glasses or punch or tea cups.
Garnish each with freshly grated nutmeg.
Raw Egg Warning
Consuming raw and lightly cooked eggs poses a risk of food-borne illness.
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FAQs
While brandy is the most traditional alcohol to pair with eggnog, according to traditional recipes, you can also use a mixture of dark rum and Cognac. If you like your eggnog with more of a kick you can also add bourbon, but we recommend sticking to rum and Cognac to preserve the 'nog's flavors.
Are there eggs in eggnog? ›
Traditional homemade eggnog is made of milk or cream, sugar, raw eggs, one or more alcoholic spirits, and spices, often vanilla or nutmeg and in some recipes, cloves. Some recipes call for the eggs to be separated so that the egg whites can be whipped until they are thick; this gives the drink a frothy texture.
What is modern day eggnog made of? ›
Today, eggnog is usually made of some combination of eggs (either just the yolks or the yolks and the whipped egg whites), sugar, milk, cream, nutmeg, and sometimes booze. We're all familiar with the cartons of store-bought eggnog that grace supermarkets every December.
How to make store-bought eggnog better? ›
Bonus Additions for Store-Bought Eggnog
- nutmeg.
- cloves.
- cinnamon.
- pumpkin pie spice.
- apple pie spice.
- pure vanilla extract.
- almond extract.
- coffee.
Much like its non-alcoholic nog namesake, this luxuriously smooth, spiced and pre-mixed Liqueur is great served straight, divine in coffee, and splendid blended with ice cream for a merry milkshake.
Is eggnog healthy? ›
Traditionally made with eggs, cream, milk, and sugar, no one would say that eggnog is a healthy drink. Even a small serving can pack significant amounts of calories, fat, saturated fat, and added sugars. And then there's the fact that homemade eggnog made with raw eggs can be a food-poisoning risk.
How long does eggnog last in the fridge? ›
The Food and Drug Administration suggests consuming commercial eggnog within three to five days of opening a carton, and you should drink homemade eggnog within two to four days of making. If you're unsure whether eggnog has gone off, give it a whiff, and check for these signs: lumpy texture. spoiled milk smell.
Does alcohol make eggnog safe? ›
Eggs must be cooked to 160 degrees F to kill bacteria such as Salmonella that may be present. If your eggnog recipe calls for raw eggs, it may not be safe. Adding alcohol inhibits bacterial growth, but it cannot be relied upon to kill bacteria.
Does anyone sell eggnog year round? ›
Did you Know? Stewart's Shops Eggnog is Available Year Round! Every season is Eggnog season at Stewart's Shops! Unlike most other brands, we carry 16oz Refreshers of our Premium Eggnog year-round.
What is rum and milk called? ›
The Milk Punch is a classic co*cktail that traditionally combines brandy or rum with sugar, vanilla extract and milk (of course). Its history is extensive, dating to at least the 1600s, when the recipe first appeared in print.
Ladle the egg nog into glass tumblers and serve with a little freshly grated nutmeg over the top of each glass.
What do you mix eggnog with? ›
Ingredients
- Eggnog.
- Spirits: rum, bourbon, whiskey, and/or brandy.
- Whipped cream.
- Syrup: caramel and/or chocolate.
- Spices: nutmeg, cinnamon (sticks and ground), and/or pumpkin spice.
- Crushed gingersnap cookies or red-hot candies, or cinnamon sugar for rimming glasses (optional)
White Claw ® Hard Seltzer is made from a blend of seltzer water, our gluten free vodka base, and a hint of fruit flavour. Check below to see our full ingredients and nutrition labels. Ingredients: Carbonated water, Vodka, Cane sugar, Natural flavour, Citric acid.
What is the best rum to put in eggnog? ›
10 Best Rums To Mix With Eggnog
- Denizen Vatted Dark Rum. ...
- Lemon Hart & Son Original 1804 Rum. ...
- Plantation O.F.T.D. ...
- Lemon Hart & Son Blackpool Spiced Rum. ...
- Mount Gay Eclipse. ...
- El Dorado 8 Year Old Rum. El Dorado. ...
- Appleton Estate Signature. blaskor/Shutterstock. ...
- Myers's Rum Original Dark. Ade Ayu/Shutterstock.
Brandy or rum are traditional egg nog spirits. If you get a spiced rum like Captain Morgan, it will have nice sweet vanilla notes to it.
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