Eggnog

Eggnog is a timeless holiday classic, celebrated for its luxuriously rich and creamy texture. This traditional winter drink combines dairy, eggs, and sugar to create a sweet, custardy base. It is typically spiced with freshly grated nutmeg and fortified with spirits such as brandy, aged rum, or bourbon, which add warmth and complexity. Served chilled, it's the quintessential comforting beverage for festive celebrations.
Eggnog

Preparation

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

Eggnog is classified as a classic cocktail and is quintessentially a holiday drink. Its creamy, egg-and-dairy base makes it a unique beverage, often prepared in large batches for festive gatherings, distinguishing it from many other single-serving cocktails.

Serving

Eggnog is best served chilled in a mug or small punch cup, delivering a rich and moderately strong alcoholic beverage perfect for sipping.
Serving size
Approximately 150-180 ml / 5-6 oz
Alcohol content
ABV: 15-20%
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Mug or Punch Cup
Glass treatment
Chilled

Backstory

Eggnog is believed to have evolved from a medieval British drink called "posset," a warm mixture of milk, wine or ale, and spices. The recipe traveled to the American colonies in the 18th century, where ingredients like eggs and rum were plentiful. It became a symbol of prosperity and a staple of holiday celebrations, with President George Washington himself having a famously potent recipe.
Origin
While its roots are in medieval Europe, modern eggnog was popularized in the American colonies during the 18th century. It has been a holiday tradition in North America for hundreds of years.

Eggnog

Eggnog is its most common name, though it is structurally similar to an Egg Flip, which is a single-serving drink containing an egg. It also belongs to the broader Milk Punch category of drinks. The name's origin is debated, possibly deriving from "noggin," a type of small wooden mug, or "grog," a term for rum.
Original name
Eggnog
Alternative names
  • Egg Flip
  • Milk Punch

Characteristics overview

This drink offers a decadent experience with a rich, creamy texture and sweet, custardy flavor, complemented by warming aromas of nutmeg and spirits. The aftertaste is long and comforting, making it a perfect wintery indulgence.
Flavor
Creamy, sweet, custardy, spicy, rich, boozy
Aroma
Nutmeg, vanilla, dairy, spirits (brandy or rum)
Taste balance
Sweet, rich
Aftertaste
Long, warming, creamy, spicy
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Opaque, creamy, pale yellow, off-white
Texture
Thick, smooth, viscous, velvety, sometimes frothy
Seasonality
Warming, wintery, festive

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor is intensely creamy and sweet, with a prominent spice note from nutmeg and noticeable alcoholic warmth. It is a rich, non-carbonated drink with a powerful and memorable taste profile.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

The core ingredients for Eggnog are an egg, sugar, milk, cream, and a spirit like brandy or rum. These combine to create its signature rich and creamy character.
  • Egg Yolk1 large
    Provides richness and acts as an emulsifier.
  • Granulated Sugar15 g / 1 tablespoon
    Adjust to taste. Can be substituted with 15 ml (0.5 oz) of simple syrup.
  • Whole Milk60 ml / 2 oz
    For creaminess and body.
  • Heavy Cream30 ml / 1 oz
    Adds essential richness and a velvety texture.
  • Brandy or Aged Rum45 ml / 1.5 oz
    Bourbon is also a popular choice. A combination of spirits can be used.
  • Egg White1 large(optional)
    Whipped separately and folded in for a lighter, frothier texture. Its inclusion is traditional but optional.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

You will need a cocktail shaker to combine and chill the ingredients, along with a strainer. A whisk is necessary if you choose to incorporate whipped egg white for a traditional frothy top.
  • Cocktail shaker for mixing and chilling
  • Fine-mesh strainer for double straining
  • Whisk or electric mixer for the egg white (optional)

Instructions

The preparation involves separating an egg, shaking the yolk with dairy and sugar, then shaking again with ice and spirits. The drink is then strained and garnished with nutmeg for the perfect finish.
1. Separate the egg. Place the yolk in a cocktail shaker. If using the egg white, place it in a separate clean bowl.
2. Optional Step: Whisk the egg white until it forms soft, foamy peaks. Set aside.
3. To the shaker with the egg yolk, add sugar, milk, and heavy cream.
4. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the ingredients.
5. Add your chosen spirit (brandy, rum, etc.) to the shaker, then fill with cubed ice.
6. Shake again until the outside of the shaker is frosty and the drink is well-chilled, about 12-15 seconds.
7. Double-strain the mixture into a chilled mug or coupe glass.
8. If you prepared the egg white, gently spoon the foam over the top of the drink.
9. Garnish with a generous grating of fresh nutmeg and serve immediately.

Garnishing

The essential garnish is a dusting of freshly grated nutmeg, which adds aromatic spice that complements the creamy base. A cinnamon stick can be added for extra visual appeal and aroma.
  • Freshly grated nutmeg over the top of the drink
  • Cinnamon stick placed in the glass (optional)

Dietary Information

This drink contains dairy and egg, making it unsuitable for vegans or those with dairy/egg allergies. It is naturally caffeine-free, gluten-free, and nut-free.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✕ Dairy-free
✕ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✕ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

Eggnog is a very high-calorie beverage due to its cream, sugar, and alcohol content. It is also high in sugar and carbohydrates, making it a rich, indulgent treat rather than a light drink.
Calories
Averagely 350-450 kcal / 1465-1883 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 15-25 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 15-25 g
Sugar level

Occasions

Eggnog is the definitive drink for the winter holiday season, especially Christmas. It is perfect for serving at festive parties or for enjoying fireside during a cold evening.
  • Christmas
  • Holiday parties
  • Winter gatherings
  • Festive celebrations

Pairing suggestions

Eggnog pairs beautifully with classic holiday sweets and snacks. The spices in gingerbread cookies or the buttery richness of shortbread complement the creamy drink perfectly. Spiced nuts also provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
  • Gingerbread cookies
  • Shortbread
  • Spiced nuts
  • Fruitcake

Eggnog: A Creamy Cup of Holiday Cheer

Eggnog is the ultimate holiday indulgence, a classic cocktail that defines festive comfort. Its preparation, while requiring a bit of effort, results in a uniquely rich and satisfying drink. With a creamy, sweet profile balanced by the warmth of spirits and aromatic nutmeg, it's a beverage steeped in history and tradition. Perfect for sipping by a fire or serving at a holiday party, Eggnog is a timeless taste of Christmas.