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 Or maybe it comes fromnoggin, an outdated word used to describe a small cup.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
“Think what's in it: heavy cream, milk, sugar, whipped eggs and alcohol.” And with the recommended serving size a paltry half a cup, eggnog is easy to over-indulge. High in fat and sugar, a single serving contains one-third of the fat Americans should eat daily.
What is the very best alcohol to put in eggnog? ›
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.
Why do Americans love eggnog? ›
The drink's wintry spices, and the preference for serving it hot, made nog a Yuletide mainstay. As milk, eggs, sugar and rum became more affordable and abundant, eggnog became accessible to everyday Americans. Today, people around the world enjoy it, often putting regional spins on the recipe.
What is so special about eggnog? ›
Eggnog is made with a combination of eggs, milk or cream, and sugar. Generally, it's served cold, and it has a custard-like color and texture. Sometimes, bourbon or whiskey or rum is added, which might be one reason it gets broken out around the holidays.
What state drinks the most eggnog? ›
The top eggnog-drinking states, compared to Florida, are:
- Vermont: 19.
- Alaska: 14.
- Iowa/Oklahoma: 8.
- Florida: 6.
The role of sugar in eggnog
Sugar's addictive properties have been studied, and ice cream mix used to make eggnog contains its fair share, both from the milk sugar lactose and from added sugars.
Is Crown Royal good in eggnog? ›
Egg-cellent Eggnog Tips
Rum – I like dark rum in eggnog (Myers's is what I usually buy), but spiced rum would also be fabulous. Whiskey – I typically use Crown Royal, but use what you like or keep on hand.
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.
"Tom and Jerry is a form of hot eggnog [co*cktail] that was once popular." The Tom and Jerry was invented by British journalist Pierce Egan in the 1820s, using brandy and rum added to eggnog and served hot, usually in a mug or a bowl. It is a traditional Christmastime co*cktail in the United States.
Why do they stop selling eggnog? ›
Most plants keep producing eggnog through New Year's, and start dumping their unsold product in January. Although associated with the holidays, eggnog doesn't need to be seasonal. Dairy plants could produce small batches of eggnog off-season for hard-core nogheads, but they don't because it's not cost-effective.
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.
What did eggnog used to be called? ›
While culinary historians debate its exact lineage, most agree eggnog originated from the early medieval Britain “posset,” a hot, milky, ale-like drink. By the 13th century, monks were known to drink a posset with eggs and figs.
What makes eggnog unhealthy? ›
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.
Why you should be careful with that eggnog? ›
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.
Should eggnog be served warm or cold? ›
Is Eggnog Served Hot or Cold? Eggnog is traditionally served as a punch at parties, and as such, is usually chilled or room temperature. However, warmed eggnog is also a delightful treat. In this case, we say "to each your own!" Enjoy your eggnog however you like it.
Does egg nog build muscle? ›
Because it consists largely of milk and eggs, the combo below contains an impressive 31g of protein to fuel your muscle-building efforts. It's a virgin version of course, but if you do want to let your hair down, you can always chuck in a few shots of white rum or bourbon.
How to tell if eggnog has gone bad? ›
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 eggnog make you sleepy? ›
Alcohol: Wine, champagne or eggnog
Alcohol has a sedative effect on the body. This can be a contributing factor to your sleepiness.
How much eggnog do Americans drink? ›
Consumption in the United States in 2019 was 53.5 million bottles purchased and Americans spent $185 million on eggnog. The consumption of egg nog was down 42 percent since 1969.
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