Tis the season for holiday merry-making and in honor of Christmas Eve I decided to investigate the mystery of Eggnog. Despite its constant presence in holiday films and humongous grocery store displays, I’ve never been all that impressed… until now.

Sure, I’ve explored the contents of a few cartons of grocery store eggnog and while I’ve found that Luzerne brand is the best, it’s still not all that great…

What is Eggnog?

“A crappy holiday milkshake sold at the grocery store” is what most people might say when pondering the question What is Eggnog? And generally they’re right. However, for those willing to look a little more closely, it’s much more than that…

Also known as Egg Milk Punch, Eggnog is a sweetened dairy-based beverage made with milk, and/ or cream, sugar and whipped eggs. Normally a spirit like bourbon, rum, or brandy is added and the drinks are garnished with nutmeg or cinnamon when served. A great pre-made option for holiday parties, Eggnog has a unique flavor and rich custard-like texture that many enjoy

Eggnog Recipe: Step by Step

It doesn’t take much to beat the pants off of one of those premade Nogs in the store, so check out this easy step by step Eggnog recipe that’ll have your family and guests licking their lips for weeks afterward.

Note: It’s important to understand that Traditional Eggnog has raw eggs in it, which presents a risk of salmonella contamination. While there a several ways to prepare eggnog safely, this is not one of them.

Step # 1 – Assemble the Ingredients

• 6 Eggs
• 1 C. Bourbon
• 1 C. Heavy Cream
• 1 C. Whole Milk
•  3/8 C. Sugar
• Nutmeg

Step # 2 – Separate the Eggs

Separating the egg yolks from the whites can get tricky, but if you take your time it’ll all work out. Place both the yolks and the whites in large bowls

Note: If you’re really stressin’ on this step, this video shows you a super easy way to separate them.

Step # 3 – Whisk the Egg Yolks

Blend the eggs with a wisk until they’re well mixed. Add ½ C. sugar, the Bourbon and mix thoroughly.

Step # 4 – Whisk the Egg Whites

You could attempt to do this with a wisk, but save yourself and use a hand mixer! Whip the egg whites until they achieve a firm peak. Not sure about how to do that? Here’s another video: How To Beat Egg Whites Until Stiff.

Step # 5 – Mix the Yolks with the Whites

Gradually add the whipped egg whites to the egg yolk mixture.

Step # 6 – Add the Remaining Liquids

Add the Heavy Cream and Milk while gently mixing. Continue to stir the mixture to create a consistent, creamy texture.

Step # 7 – Add Nutmeg

Spice the Eggnog with Nutmeg to taste.

Step # 8 – Portion, Garnish & Serve!

The Eggnog is now ready to serve! Portion the punch into serving cups and garnish with a dash of Nutmeg. Cheers!

Conclusion

Ok, making Eggnog may not be quite as easy as picking a carton off of a shelf, but the results are far beyond what you’ll find at your local market. Forget Acme brand Eggnog and go for the homemade stuff and you’ll never go back.