Eggnog History and Recipes: Your Favorite Holiday Drink

Eggnog History:

The precursor to eggnog can be traced back to medieval Britain with a drink called “posset“. Posset was a hot, spiced, and sweetened milk curd mixed with ale or wine, which was consumed for its supposed medicinal properties, particularly for colds and fevers. Think of it as a thick milky hot toddy.  Even Monks in medieval monasteries were known to create versions of posset, using eggs, which were seen as a luxury.

Fast forward to the newly established colonies where eggnog gained popularity in North America with the arrival of the British colonists. In the New World, ingredients like eggs, milk, and cream were plentiful, making the drink more accessible. The addition of rum, which was cheaper than brandy or sherry, was particularly popular in the American colonies.

Over time, eggnog became associated with the Christmas season in both Britain and America. These rich ingredients made it a festive luxury, often served at holiday gatherings.

George Washington was known to have his own recipe for eggnog, which included rye whiskey, rum, and sherry, reflecting the drink’s status as a Christmas staple in colonial times. His recipe was quite potent, suggesting eggnog also served as a social lubricant during long winter nights.

The Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933) saw eggnog adapt with the use of non-alcoholic versions. In conjunction with the rise of commercial dairy production and bottling, eggnog became available in stores, further popularizing it. Today, you can find store-bought eggnog, though homemade versions remain a holiday tradition for many. Modern eggnog has seen numerous variations, including vegan, low-fat, or spiced differently, catering to a wide array of dietary preferences and taste profiles.

Eggnog’s history reflects changes in society, from medieval health tonics to colonial festivities, through prohibition to modern commercialism, illustrating how food and drink can weave through the tapestry of cultural history. Whether enjoyed in its traditional form or with contemporary adaptations, eggnog continues to be a cherished part of holiday celebrations.

Today, you can bring a bit of that tradition to your home with a simple, homemade eggnog recipe that’s sure to warm up any festive gathering.

Ingredients:

4 large eggs

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnish

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional: 1/2 cup bourbon, brandy, or rum for an adult version

Instructions:

1. Separate the Eggs: Separate the yolks from the whites. Then place the yolks in a large mixing bowl and the whites in another bowl for later use.

2. Mix the Yolks: Beat the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

3. Combine Dairy: In a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Then heat this mixture over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling.

4. Temper the Eggs: Gradually whisk the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs, preventing them from scrambling. Add it slowly while stirring continuously.

5. Cook the Mixture: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly. This should take about 5 minutes. Do not let it boil.

6. Cool: Remove from heat and let it cool for a bit, then transfer to a bowl or pitcher. Refrigerate until completely chilled, which could take several hours or overnight.

7. Whisk the Whites: If you want a frothy texture, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold these into the chilled eggnog mixture.

8. Alcohol (Optional): Stir in your choice of liquor if you’re making an adult version. This step should be done just before serving to preserve the alcohol content.

9. Serve: Pour the eggnog into glasses, sprinkle with a dash of nutmeg for that classic look and serve cold.

Tips for the Perfect Eggnog:

Safety First: While traditional eggnog uses raw eggs, heating the mixture kills off bacteria. If you’re concerned, use pasteurized eggs.

Customization: Adjust the spices to your taste or even try adding a pinch of cloves or allspice for variety.

Storage: Eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving if it separates.

Non-Alcoholic Version: Simply omit the alcohol for a family-friendly drink. Also, you can make a “mocktail” version by adding non-alcoholic spirits or flavor syrups.

Homemade eggnog is not only a delight to drink but also a joy to make, filling your home with the warm scents of the season. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or just enjoying a quiet night by the fire, this eggnog recipe will bring a touch of holiday magic to your celebrations. Enjoy!

What else can you do with eggnog?

Hot Eggnog: Warm up the eggnog gently on the stove before serving for a comforting, hot drink. But, be careful not to let it boil and serve immediately.

Eggnog Latte: Make a festive latte by mixing equal parts hot eggnog and espresso or strong coffee. Then, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon.

An Eggnog Floats: For a fun twist, serve eggnog with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or spiced rum ice cream in a tall glass for a holiday float.

Eggnog Smoothie: Blend eggnog with ice, a banana, and perhaps some nutmeg or cinnamon for a thick, frosty treat.

Cocktails:

• Brandy Alexander: Blend eggnog with equal parts brandy and crème de cacao, serve in a martini glass with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
• Eggnog Martini: Shake eggnog with vodka or rum, a dash of vanilla extract, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Non-Alcoholic Variations:

• Spiced Eggnog: Infuse your eggnog with additional spices like star anise or cloves by simmering them in the milk before adding to the egg mixture.
• Eggnog Shake: Blend eggnog with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent, creamy shake.

Eggnog Desserts:

Use eggnog as a base for homemade ice cream or custard.

Incorporate eggnog into pancake or waffle batter for a holiday breakfast treat.

With these serving variations, homemade eggnog becomes not just a drink but a versatile part of your holiday menu. As an ingredient ready to be enjoyed in a host of delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or just enjoying a quiet night by the fire, eggnog can bring a touch of holiday magic to your celebrations. Enjoy! As a special treat, I’ll grill up a special apple pie like this one.