Winter is here, and the holiday spirit is in the air. Eggnog is the perfect drink for this time of year. Have you ever tried making homemade eggnog? It’s a creamy treat that feels like a dream come true.
Our recipe lets you make eggnog just like they do in New England. It’s a special drink that’s both safe and delicious. Are you ready to make your holiday season unforgettable with homemade eggnog?
The Tradition of Eggnog
Origins and History
Eggnog started in 14th century England as “posset,” a warm drink made with milk, ale, or wine. Eggs were later added, creating the creamy eggnog we love today. It became a hit in the American colonies, thanks to plenty of rum, milk, and eggs.
Through the years, eggnog has become a holiday favorite. It has many variations, like Æggekop from Denmark and Coquito from Puerto Rico. But the core ingredients of eggs, sugar, milk, and cream stay the same, sometimes with a splash of spirit or wine.
The story of eggnog is filled with interesting tales. In 1826, the “Eggnog Riot” at West Point led to 20 cadets being kicked out. George Washington’s eggnog recipe, with lots of rum, cream, and sugar, is famous.
Today, eggnog is a holiday favorite, enjoyed by many. It’s loved on its own or in festive cocktails. The history of eggnog and its origins are key to the eggnog tradition and the traditional eggnog experience.
Ingredients for Classic Eggnog
Get ready to make the quintessential holiday drink – classic eggnog! This festive beverage is perfect for Christmas celebrations. To make rich and creamy eggnog, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 8 large eggs, separated
- 2/3 cup (140g) granulated sugar, divided
- 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (480ml) dark rum or brandy (or a combination)
- 2 teaspoons (10ml) vanilla extract
- Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
This classic eggnog recipe makes 1.5 gallons, or 12 to 16 servings. It’s crucial to use the right alcohol amounts for safety. With eggs, cream, and spirits, you’ll have a delicious holiday drink to share.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Eggs, large | 8 |
| Granulated sugar | 2/3 cup (140g) |
| Whole milk | 3 cups (720ml) |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups (480ml) |
| Dark rum or brandy | 2 cups (480ml) |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons (10ml) |
| Nutmeg | Freshly grated for garnish |
With these classic eggnog ingredients, you’re on your way to a delightful eggnog recipe. It will surely impress your holiday guests. Enjoy this beloved holiday drink and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Eggnog Preparation Process
Making the perfect eggnog is an art. It starts with separating the egg whites and yolks. This step is key for the right texture and richness.
Separating and Whipping
Start by beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add 1/2 cup of sugar towards the end. This makes a light, airy part of your eggnog.
Then, beat the egg yolks with 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. This part makes your eggnog creamy.
Whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This adds a thick, velvety texture. Use a high-speed mixer and a big bowl to avoid messes.
Separating and whipping the eggs individually makes your eggnog indulgent and perfectly textured. This is what makes homemade eggnog special.
Remember, the best eggnog comes from careful preparation. Take your time, follow the steps, and enjoy making this holiday treat.
Combining and Aging the Eggnog
First, mix the egg whites, yolks, and whipped cream together. Then, add them to a big bowl with the milk, rum, bourbon, and vanilla. Stir well, even if it seems hard at first.
Once mixed, pour the eggnog into jars or jugs. The article suggests using three half-gallon mason jars. Then, refrigerate it for at least 5 days. Shake the containers gently every day to blend the flavors.
The eggnog can stay good for up to a year. It’s important to keep the alcohol content at least 20% ABV. The recipe uses bourbon, brandy, and spiced rum for the perfect aging eggnog taste.
It’s best to wait at least 3 weeks before drinking the eggnog. If stored right, it can last months to a year. This means you can enjoy it all holiday season.
The eggnog aging process is key for its rich taste and creamy texture. So, be patient. Let the eggnog ingredients do their work. Then, enjoy the delicious results!
Serving and Enjoying Eggnog
After a week, the eggnog recipe becomes smoother. The alcohol flavor fades, letting the creamy texture and balanced tastes shine. It’s the best time to enjoy this festive drink.
You can drink eggnog chilled or warm it up in the microwave for 30 seconds. Adding a splash to your coffee or hot chocolate is a great idea. The smooth texture and nutmeg hint add to the flavor.
Even though the recipe doesn’t include cinnamon or nutmeg, you can add them. A light dusting of these spices can make your eggnog even more special. It brings the holiday spirit right to your glass.
Try an eggnog iced coffee for a refreshing twist. Mix chilled eggnog, strong coffee, and a bit of simple syrup over ice. The eggnog flavor and tasting notes will make it a delightful treat.
However you serve your homemade eggnog, the most important thing is to enjoy it. Celebrate the how to serve eggnog and eggnog serving suggestions that make it a holiday classic.
“Eggnog is a must-have for us on Christmas Eve at Jeffrey’s. Everyone looks forward to a glass or two of this rich, creamy treat to kick off the holiday festivities.”
– Daisy Ryan, assistant beverage director at Austin, Texas-based McGuire Moorman Hospitality
Conclusion
The classic holiday eggnog recipe is a cherished tradition that brings joy and festivity to the season. By making your own homemade eggnog, you can experience the rich, creamy, and lightly boozy delight. This festive eggnog is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday gatherings, offering a taste of history and a cozy feel-good moment.
The classic eggnog recipe shared in this article is a time-honored blend of milk, cream, egg yolks, sugar, and your choice of rum, bourbon, or brandy. Whether you prefer a more traditional approach or you enjoy experimenting with unique variations, the joy of making and savoring this beloved beverage is what truly matters. Embrace the spirit of the season by whipping up a batch of this indulgent treat and sharing it with your loved ones.
As you sip on your freshly made holiday eggnog, let the flavors transport you to a time of joyful celebration and cherished memories. The art of crafting this timeless elixir is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic eggnog recipes and the enduring traditions that make the holiday season so special. Enjoy every sip and let the warmth of the season fill your heart.
FAQ
What makes this eggnog recipe special?
This eggnog recipe comes from an old hotel in New England. It makes about 1.5 gallons. It’s rich, creamy, and boozy, great for holiday parties.
How long does the eggnog need to age?
The eggnog must chill for at least 5 days. Shake the containers gently each day during this time.
What are the key ingredients in this eggnog recipe?
You’ll need 12 eggs, 1.5 cups of sugar, and 1 quart each of heavy cream and milk. Also, 1 quart of dark or spiced rum, 1 cup of bourbon or whiskey, and 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract.
How do you make the eggnog?
First, separate the eggs. Beat the whites until stiff, then the yolks with sugar. Whip the heavy cream separately.
Combine the egg yolks, sugar, and cream with the milk, rum, bourbon, and vanilla. Pour into jars or jugs for aging.
How can you enjoy the eggnog?
You can drink it straight, mix it with coffee or hot chocolate, or make an iced coffee drink. The alcohol flavor softens after a week, making it smoother.
What is the history and origin of eggnog?
Eggnog started in the 14th century England as “posset,” a hot milk drink with ale. Eggs were later added, creating eggnog. It became popular in America due to the availability of rum, milk, and eggs.
Source Links
- Aged Eggnog Recipe – A Holiday Classic
- Homemade Eggnog Recipe – Tastes Better From Scratch
- What Is the History of Eggnog? – Sauder’s Eggs
- Eggnog
- What Country Did Eggnog Originate From?
- Classic Eggnog Recipe
- How to Make Eggnog (Traditional Homemade Recipe) – Maureen Abood
- Impress Your Guests With A Classic Eggnog Made From Scratch This Year
- Easy Homemade Eggnog is So Underrated
- Homemade Eggnog (In 5 Minutes!) – Downshiftology
- Eggnog Recipe
- Aged Eggnog
- The Secret to Good Eggnog Is Aging, So Start Making It ASAP
- For your health, spike (and then age) your eggnog – Chicago Reader
- How To Serve Eggnog To A Big Crowd
- Single-serve Egg Nog — High-Proof Preacher
- Drink Eggnog Hot or Cold?
- From The Norwalk Hour: The Problem of Eggnog
- We Aged Eggnog for 1 Year to See if It’s Worth the Wait
- The Unique History of Eggnog: A Beloved (or Not-So-Beloved) Holiday Tradition
