Eggnog is a classic holiday beverage that can be elevated with the addition of the right liquor. To create the perfect boozy blend, it’s important to choose spirits that complement the rich and creamy flavors of eggnog.
From our research, the best liquors to mix with eggnog include dark, amber-colored spirits with a higher proof, such as bourbon, rye, aged rum, Irish whiskey, blended Scotch whisky, brandy, and coffee liqueur. These spirits provide a balance of flavors, with the higher alcohol content neutralizing some of the sweetness of the eggnog.
Other ingredients that can be added to liven up your eggnog include cordials like ginger liqueur and peppermint schnapps, spices like nutmeg, cloves, allspice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, and additional goodies like coffee, brown sugar, chocolate syrup, and maple syrup. The key is to experiment and find combinations that suit your personal taste preferences.
Key Takeaways:
- Choose dark, amber-colored spirits like bourbon, rye, aged rum, Irish whiskey, blended Scotch whisky, brandy, and coffee liqueur for the best flavor combination with eggnog.
- Experiment with cordials, spices, and additional goodies like ginger liqueur, peppermint schnapps, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, cinnamon, vanilla extract, coffee, brown sugar, chocolate syrup, and maple syrup to further enhance the flavors of your eggnog.
- Personalize your eggnog by finding the combinations that suit your taste preferences.
How to Make Eggnog
Making eggnog from scratch can be a fun and rewarding activity during the holiday season. While store-bought eggnog can work, homemade eggnog allows for more customization and control over the ingredients.
According to the information sources, a basic eggnog recipe involves whisking together:
- 12 large eggs
- 8 cups of whole milk
- 2 cups of heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups of white granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
The mixture is then cooked and stirred over low heat until it reaches a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. After cooling and chilling in the refrigerator, the eggnog can be served with a garnish of additional nutmeg.
It’s important to note that eggnog is a rich and indulgent drink, so it may not be suitable for those looking to cut calories.
Sample Eggnog Recipe:
Whisk together 12 large eggs, 8 cups of whole milk, 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, 1 1/2 cups of white granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 2 1/4 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Cook and stir the mixture over low heat until it reaches a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cool and chill the eggnog in the refrigerator.
Serve with a garnish of additional nutmeg.
How to Make Spiked Eggnog
Spiking eggnog with alcohol is a popular way to enhance its flavor and add a festive touch. The secret to a successful spiked eggnog lies in the right alcohol-to-eggnog ratio. The information sources recommend combining 1 part of your selected spirit to 5 parts prepared eggnog. For example, if you have a 1-quart container of eggnog, you would use 6.5 ounces of liquor in total.
The choice of alcohol can vary based on personal preferences, but traditional options include brandy, dark rum, and Cognac. Bourbon is also a popular choice, although it’s important to note that cheap bourbon may not be as favorable as other options. The addition of cinnamon-spiced whiskey can also create a delightful flavor combination.
It’s important to taste and adjust the amount of alcohol to achieve the desired balance and level of booziness. Serving the spiked eggnog with a sprinkle of nutmeg and finely grated orange zest adds a finishing touch to the festive beverage.
Creative Eggnog Cocktail Recipes
If you’re looking to experiment with unique eggnog cocktails, try these inventive recipes:
| Cocktail Name | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Eggnog Martini | – 2 oz vodka – 1 oz coffee liqueur – 2 oz eggnog – Nutmeg for garnish |
1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, coffee liqueur, and eggnog. 2. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. 3. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg. |
| Spiced Rum Eggnog Punch | – 1 cup spiced rum – 4 cups eggnog – 1 cup ginger beer – Cinnamon sticks and orange slices for garnish |
1. In a punch bowl, combine spiced rum, eggnog, and ginger beer. 2. Stir well. 3. Garnish with cinnamon sticks and orange slices. |
| Maple Bourbon Eggnog | – 2 oz bourbon – 1 oz maple syrup – 4 oz eggnog – Dash of cinnamon – Whipped cream for garnish |
1. In a glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, eggnog, and cinnamon. 2. Stir well. 3. Top with whipped cream. |
Feel free to experiment with different combinations and flavors to create your own signature eggnog cocktails. Cheers to a festive season filled with delicious and boozy eggnog!
Conclusion
Elevate your holiday celebrations with these delicious and festive eggnog cocktails. Whether you choose to mix eggnog with bourbon, rum, brandy, or other spirits, the key is to experiment and find the combinations that suit your taste preferences. Adding additional ingredients like cordials, spices, and other goodies can further enhance the flavors of your eggnog. Making eggnog from scratch allows for more customization and control over the ingredients, but store-bought eggnog can also be used with great results. By following the recommended alcohol-to-eggnog ratio and garnishing your cocktails with nutmeg and orange zest, you can create delightful holiday party drinks that are sure to impress your guests. Cheers to a festive season filled with delicious eggnog cocktails!
FAQ
What are the best liquors to mix with eggnog?
The best liquors to mix with eggnog include bourbon, rye, aged rum, Irish whiskey, blended Scotch whisky, brandy, and coffee liqueur.
How do you make eggnog from scratch?
To make eggnog from scratch, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy whipping cream, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Cook and stir the mixture over low heat until it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, then chill in the refrigerator before serving.
What is the ratio of alcohol to eggnog for spiked eggnog?
The recommended ratio for spiked eggnog is 1 part alcohol to 5 parts eggnog. For example, if you have 1 quart of eggnog, you would use 6.5 ounces of liquor in total.
What are some festive eggnog cocktail ideas?
Some festive eggnog cocktail ideas include spiking eggnog with bourbon, rum, brandy, or other spirits and adding additional ingredients like cordials, spices, and other goodies. Garnishing with nutmeg and orange zest adds a finishing touch.