As WRRV's 12 Days of Cocktails continues with Day 10, we are going to find out about what this thing is that is called eggnog. Are we supposed to like it? What actually is it? Does it have eggs in it? What kind of booze are you supposed to put in it?

Eggnog is a dairy-based drink made from milk or cream, with the addition of whipped raw eggs, sugar, alcohol, vanilla and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg. Yes, you can make eggnog at home, but it is widely available in grocery stores and convenience stores in the winter months.

If you think that you might like the taste of it, think of the commercial version as if you were drinking melted ice cream with the added flavor of nutmeg. I have a neighbor who makes an alcoholic version of it each year. Let's just say it is a very alcoholic version. It is not as thick as the one you will buy in a store, but it is delicious.

If you purchase one at the grocery, it will be non-alcoholic, so what kind of liquor do you put in it? The answer to that question is, "What do you like to drink?"

Traditionally it is a brown spirit or a combination there of that is added to the 'nog. Some people like to use bourbon, spiced rum, brandy, Southern Comfort, Jack Daniels or applejack. If you have a favorite, try that first.

When serving your eggnog, measure out a shot (about 1.5 ounces) of liquor, put that into your serving glass or mug, then add the eggnog, stir and then top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg and some whipped cream.

Eggnog can be served warm or chilled. When warming it, do it before you add the alcohol, in a small saucepan on the stove. (Ok, you can also use 30 second blasts in the microwave, just stir it every 30 seconds). Do not allow it to boil: you just want it to simmer.

Ever heard your friends mention Coquito? That is the Puerto Rican version of eggnog. The main difference is that it contains coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk and rum.

Here is a recipe from FoodNetwork.com to make your own eggnog. Note, it does contain raw eggs. Look for pasteurized whole eggs at the grocery. I would have included the recipe from my neighbor, Bobby, but he says it is top secret.

Ingredients:

  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
  • 1 pint whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/4 ounces bourbon
  • 1 1/4 ounces dark rum
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 4 egg whites

 

Directions:

In the bowl of a stand mixer beat together the egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar until the yolks lighten in color and the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon, rum, and nutmeg and stir to combine. Place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat to soft peaks.

With the mixer still running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the mixture. Chill and serve.

 
Bonus Video
 


 

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