The Classic Eggnog Cocktail is a holiday must-have, and when made with rich, creamy homemade eggnog, it becomes a truly special treat.
Combining freshly crafted eggnog with the warmth of rum, bourbon, or brandy, this cocktail is the ultimate festive indulgence.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this drink brings cozy cheer to every sip.
Making your own eggnog from scratch adds an extra layer of flavor and freshness. Let’s dive into the steps to prepare this delightful holiday cocktail!
Ingredients:
For the Homemade Eggnog:
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 tablespoon for egg whites
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cocktail:
- 2 ounces homemade eggnog
- 1 ounce rum, bourbon, or brandy
- Ice (optional)
- Ground nutmeg (for garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Cinnamon stick or star anise (optional garnish)
Instructions:
Make the Eggnog:
- Whisk the Yolks:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with 1/3 cup of sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.
- Heat the Milk Mixture:
- In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until just warm (do not let it boil).
- Temper the Yolks:
- Gradually whisk a ladle of the warm milk mixture into the yolks to temper them, then slowly pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
- Cook the Eggnog:
- Heat gently, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Chill:
- Transfer the eggnog to a bowl or pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare the Egg Whites:
- Just before serving, beat the egg whites with 1 tablespoon of sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped whites into the chilled eggnog for a light, frothy texture.
Make the Cocktail:
Mix the Drink:
- In a shaker or mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of the homemade eggnog with 1 ounce of rum, bourbon, or brandy. Add ice if desired, and stir or shake until chilled.
Serve:
- Pour the mixture into a rocks glass or coupe. Top with whipped cream if desired, and garnish with ground nutmeg or a cinnamon stick.
Notes:
- This recipe makes enough eggnog for 4-6 servings, while the cocktail measurements are per drink.
- For a non-alcoholic option, omit the alcohol and enjoy the homemade eggnog as is.
- Leftover eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Classic Eggnog Cocktail: A Timeless Holiday Tradition in Every Sip
The Classic Eggnog Cocktail is a holiday must-have, and when made with rich, creamy homemade eggnog, it becomes a truly special treat.
Combining freshly crafted eggnog with the warmth of rum, bourbon, or brandy, this cocktail is the ultimate festive indulgence.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this drink brings cozy cheer to every sip.
Making your own eggnog from scratch adds an extra layer of flavor and freshness. Let’s dive into the steps to prepare this delightful holiday cocktail!
Ingredients
- For the Homemade Eggnog:
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 tablespoon for egg whites
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Cocktail:
- 2 ounces homemade eggnog
- 1 ounce rum, bourbon, or brandy
- Ice (optional)
- Ground nutmeg (for garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Cinnamon stick or star anise (optional garnish)
Instructions
Make the Eggnog:
- Whisk the Yolks:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with 1/3 cup of sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.
- Heat the Milk Mixture:
- In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until just warm (do not let it boil).
- Temper the Yolks:
- Gradually whisk a ladle of the warm milk mixture into the yolks to temper them, then slowly pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
- Cook the Eggnog:
- Heat gently, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Chill:
- Transfer the eggnog to a bowl or pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare the Egg Whites:
- Just before serving, beat the egg whites with 1 tablespoon of sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped whites into the chilled eggnog for a light, frothy texture.
Mix the Drink:
- In a shaker or mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of the homemade eggnog with 1 ounce of rum, bourbon, or brandy. Add ice if desired, and stir or shake until chilled.
Serve:
- Pour the mixture into a rocks glass or coupe. Top with whipped cream if desired, and garnish with ground nutmeg or a cinnamon stick.
Notes
- This recipe makes enough eggnog for 4-6 servings, while the cocktail measurements are per drink.
- For a non-alcoholic option, omit the alcohol and enjoy the homemade eggnog as is.
- Leftover eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
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Wrapping Up Classic Eggnog Cocktail
This Classic Eggnog Cocktail elevates a traditional holiday favorite by pairing rich, homemade eggnog with the smooth warmth of rum, bourbon, or brandy.
The combination of creamy eggs, milk, and warming spices makes for a festive, comforting drink that’s perfect for Christmas parties or quiet evenings at home.
With its frothy texture and garnishes like nutmeg and whipped cream, this cocktail is as indulgent as it is beautiful. Cheers to a season full of flavor and joy!