It's the most wonderful time of the year!
It's that time again! It's time to get prepared for the holidays. Who's ready for Christmas lights, festive cocktails, and holiday fun? I know, I am!
If you're hosting this holiday season, you'll want to know everything there is to know about eggnog. And we're here to help!
Stay tuned to learn about eggnog, its history, the difference between store-bought and homemade eggnog, how to make it, and which spirits to use! Or maybe you just want to buy some good old-fashioned ready-to-go spiked eggnog; we've got you covered there, too.
Whether you're thinking of using rum, brandy, whiskey, or bourbon, we've got a good option for you!
Now, let's learn about eggnog.
What Is Eggnog?
Before we start, let's get the basics out of the way.
Eggnog is, by definition, a drink made from a mixture of beaten eggs, cream, and flavorings, often with alcohol. It is served cold and the most popular spirits used in eggnog include brandy, whiskey, bourbon, or rum. Sometimes one spirit is used in a recipe, and other times many are used at once.
Eggnog is also known as milk punch or egg milk punch.
The History of Eggnog
Eggnog dates back to early medieval Britain. Think as far back as the 13th century or so. Back then, eggnog, or something quite similar, was known as posset. Posset was a mixture of hot milk, ale or wine, and warm spices to balance things out. People often made posset as a remedy for the flu or cold. Eggnog was very popular among the wealthy primarily because milk and eggs were more commonly accessible to the rich.
It was in the 18th century that the popular drink came over to the American colonies. Eggnog became particularly popular during the holiday season around Christmas time. Well, it makes sense. Eggnog gives you the cozy feeling you want during the holidays.
Here's a fun fact while we're here. George Washington loved to serve eggnog to his guests. His recipe is specific, using a mixture of spirits, including rum, sherry, and rye whiskey.
Store Bought Eggnog Versus Homemade Eggnog
Before we get started, let's talk about our base! Our base is eggnog, obviously! Whether or not you use store-bought eggnog or make your own is completely up to you! However, it's always better when you make it at home! So if you happen to have some extra time on your hands, give it a whirl.
If you don't, go to your local grocery store and grab a jug of eggnog in the refrigerated section! Store-bought eggnog usually lasts around five to seven days after purchasing! Keep it refrigerated!
If you don't already have an eggnog recipe, keep reading! I'll give you an eggnog recipe that can really hold its own against other spiked eggnog recipes!
How To Make The Perfect Spiked Eggnog Recipe At Home
Who needs a bunch of cocktail recipes when you have this eggnog cocktail recipe? It's the only holiday cocktail you'll need for the holidays coming up. Try it out and rate this recipe!
You might think that making eggnog at home seems intimidating. It's not as hard as you might think! And it always tastes better when you make it at home for yourself. It's a fact.
We get it, though. Sometimes you just don't have the time! In case you do, here's what you'll need to make your eggnog at home:
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of liquor
- whipped cream
- cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Start by adding your milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon to a saucepan on medium heat. You only want your mixture to barely simmer, so watch it carefully.
- While you wait for your milk to come to a simmer, in a separate bowl, crack your eggs and separate your whites from your yolks. You only need your yolks for your eggnog, so find something fun to do with your whites. Egg white omelet, anyone?
- Once you have your egg yolks, slowly whisk them up. You can use an electric mixer if you've got one. If not, just use a whisk. Add your sugar in bit by bit until you have a nice, creamy mixture. It'll be thick and smooth.
- Once your milk is at a simmer, you're slowly going to add your milk to your egg yolk and sugar mixture. Be careful. You want to whisk while you add. To avoid your eggs curdling, slowly add some of your milk into your egg and sugar mixture. Whisk, whisk, whisk! Once everything is combined, you can re-add everything to your saucepan.
- Add the pure vanilla extract and alcohol of your choice. At low heat, stir your mixture every so often. Do not let your mixture simmer or boil. This will ruin it. Slowly your mixture will thicken. Once it's thick enough to your liking, take it off the heat. Your mixture will get thicker once it's cold.
- Strain it through a fine strainer. Cover and place your eggnog in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- When serving, garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg. Throw a cinnamon stick in your mug to be extra festive!
- Enjoy!
- Extra note: Homemade eggnog should be enjoyed two or three days after making it!
Rum Options
When you're choosing the perfect rum for your eggnog, you want to choose something dark. White rum won't work for eggnog because it's too light, and you're going to want something dark and tasteful. Choose a gold rum, dark rum, or spiced rum.
Many people that season their eggnog with a load of spices choose to avoid a spiced rum and go for something dark. For example, if you're using store-bought eggnog, they tend to lack in the spice department. This would be a great time to use a spiced rum to really elevate your drink!
Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
Spiced rum is a popular option for spiked eggnog. It's rich in flavor, and it'll add a really distinct richness to your eggnog. Captain Morgan sits high on the list of most popular spiced rums on the market, so it's a good place to start if you're looking to spice up your eggnog with some smooth spiced rum.
Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum carries hints of sweet brown sugar, decadent vanilla, and a subtle hint of oak. Its balanced nature makes it a great option for your eggnog.
Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva
Now, on to a dark rum, we have the Diplomatico Reserve Exclusiva. This rum is a game-changer on its own, so you know it'll be great in your eggnog.
The Diplomatico Reserve Exclusiva is complex, balanced, and full of flavor. The aroma of toffee, orange peel, and licorice will pop out in your eggnog. The warm notes of vanilla and oak will give you the best eggnog experience that will warm your belly during the holidays!
Gosling's Black Seal Rum
Gosling's Black Seal Rum is another great option for those of you who love rum that has a deep, complex, and fragrant flavor! It's rich with notes of vanilla but balanced with sweet spices and herbal notes.
The Gosling family uses a 150-year-old recipe to make this decadent rum, and it works great in eggnog. Using Gosling's Black Seal Rum will give you a taste of Bermuda.
Whiskey & Bourbon Options
Next up, we have some whiskey and bourbon options for you! Many people opt for whiskey when making their eggnog! People usually go for a blended whiskey. It's full of flavor and provides you with a little kick!
So, if you're looking for a whiskey to spike your eggnog, here are some awesome options for you!
Jameson Irish Whiskey
Let's start with a great option for an Irish Eggnog. Jameson Irish Whiskey is just one of the many Irish whiskey options to choose from when it comes to making your spiked eggnog.
The Jameson provides the eggnog with a bevy of different tastes, including notes of bursting citrus, soft floral, a bit of nuttiness, and the warmth of vanilla.
Add some Jameson to your eggnog and see for yourself! But don't stop there. Add some Irish cream liqueur and grate some fresh nutmeg on top for the ultimate Irish eggnog experience.
Four Roses Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Next up, we have Four Roses Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. If you're looking for a bourbon whiskey that's gentle and smooth for your eggnog, this might be the option for you.
Four Roses offers a light fruity, floralness with a gentle spice and a hint of honey Your palate will also notice a burst of apple that comes with a crisp smoothness.
Four Roses Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is what you should choose if you're looking for sophistication.
Brandy Options
The most traditional option for eggnog happens to be brandy! It's the most classic way to enjoy your festivities and arguably the best!
Cîroc VS French Brandy
Many of you may be surprised to learn that Cîroc carries a product that isn't vodka! That's right. Cîroc carries a French brandy that distinguishes itself from the popular flavored vodka line.
If you want to learn more about Cîroc and everything the brand offers, check out the Liquorama blog post, Did Ciroc Start The Celebrity Spirit Frenzy?
Here's a little snippet to learn more about Cîroc VS French Brandy! "Cîroc VS Brandy didn't join the Ciroc family until fifteen years after Cîroc's debut. In 2018, Cîroc launched its French brandy. Aged in French oak for at least two years, Cîroc VS Brandy carries notes of fresh fruit and vanilla, a rich mixture when alongside the hints of French oak that come through."
E&J VSOP Brandy
E&J VSOP Brandy is not only an affordable option but also quite the delicious eggnog choice. It's super flavorful and will add the right kick to your drink!
Aged for at least two years, the tasting notes of E&J VSOP Brandy are a mix of maple, sherry, and vanilla cream. You'll also taste a hint of the toasted oak from the barrel aging. Overall, it's rich in flavor and smooth on the finish. It'll be the perfect addition to your eggnog this season!
Ready-To-Go Spiked Eggnog Options
If you'd rather buy a spiked eggnog and enjoy it immediately, here are some options you may enjoy!
First up, we have Pennsylvania Dutch Egg Nog. With a triple threat of rum, brandy, and blended whisky, Pennsylvania Dutch Egg Nog is thick, creamy, and convenient. Just grab, go, and drink! It's made with real dairy and is a great alternative if you want something quick and easy.
Next, we have the Evan Williams Egg Nog. The Evan Williams Egg Nog is a classic Southern staple made with smooth Kentucky bourbon and real dairy cream. You'll catch a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. The taste of bourbon shines, but the eggnog has a balanced taste.
These two options are an easy way to keep things festive without all the extra work. Just pop your bottle in the fridge, chill, and serve when ready. When you're ready to serve your eggnog, don't forget to spice things up by topping your eggnog with whipped cream and a dash of ground nutmeg and cinnamon. And remember your cinnamon sticks!
Everything You Need To Spike Your Eggnog This Holiday Season
Now that we've learned a bit about eggnog and how to make it properly, it's time to get our eggnog on! Shop our selection of rum, whiskey, and brandy to get started!
It's the perfect way to get your holidays started and get festive.
Are you looking for other spirits this holiday season? At Liquorama, we have a wide selection of wine, beer, and spirits to satisfy all your guests! We know hosting can be hard and stressful around this time of year, so make things easier for yourself! Browse through the Liquorama website and get your favorite spirits shipped straight to your door with the convenience of our shipping feature!
Happy Holidays!