With the holiday season upon us and colder weather setting in the Northern Hemisphere, the drinks are starting to get warmer (whether that means the drink is hot or the warming alcohol effect) and a bit more festive, and eggnog is no exception! This popular Christmastime drink can either be made with or without alcohol, especially if you’re wanting to include your littles in the experience, and you would be surprised at how many ways you can actually make it, and what you can make with it!
So, if you’re an eggnog lover, come with us as we take a trip in a one-horse open sleigh and check out the history of eggnog, along with ten fun ways to make eggnog and even a bonus eggnog bread pudding recipe!
The History of Eggnog
Most historians believe that eggnog originated in Europe during the 13th century. Monks of the medieval period drank what was known then as “posset,” which was a warm ale punch that was made with eggs and figs. This is what is thought to be the original recipe that eventually combined with milk and wine punches that were served at old time social gatherings.
However, sherry became the popular alcoholic ingredient to use in this drink in the 17th century. This version of eggnog was mostly consumed by the rich because eggs, milk, and sherry were expensive and only the wealthy could afford it, and they would toast to good health and wealth.
By the time eggnog hit America, it was a whole new ballgame, as Caribbean rum was the alcohol of choice in the colonies’ version of the drink because it was the least expensive liquor they could get compared to wine and brandy that was imported from Britain. Because of this, as well as readily available eggs and milk, all classes could enjoy this drink.
Eggnog became a Christmas tradition during the 1700s around most of the world. Each country and region would prepare theirs differently, for example, the American south tended to prefer whisky in their eggnog rather than rum. Of course, over the years, eggnog increased in popularity and no matter where you go, no one person or country makes it exactly the same, including whether it’s served warm, cold, or room temperature.
Different Ways to Make Eggnog
Easy Non-Alcoholic Eggnog for Kids
To allow the kiddos to take part in the yearly tradition of eggnog, you can whip up a batch with egg whites and yolks, vanilla extract, whole milk, nutmeg, sugar, and whipping cream. Be sure to add a dollop of whipped cream with some cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkled over top for garnish! Your littles will feel so grown up sipping their own tasty eggnog with all of the adults.
Rum Eggnog
Rum tends to make for a sweeter eggnog flavor, and with the addition of almond and vanilla extract, you have a wonderfully cozy, warming, and delicious version of this all-time favorite.
Brandy Eggnog
Brandy eggnog is a favorite of most bartenders and is a classic all on its own. For a quick and easy eggnog using brandy, combine egg yolks, brandy, milk, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker and you’re good to go!
Bourbon Eggnog
This variation of eggnog is rich and flavorful with a combination of three different liquors, which are whiskey, cognac, and orange liquor. The mixture of these along with seasonal spices are bound to get you in the holiday spirit.
Add Some Whipped Cream Vodka
For a sweeter and creamier eggnog flavor, add some whipped cream vodka instead of other alcohol choices.
Add Pumpkin Puree
If you’ve never thought of this before, let us warn you that you might not drink your eggnog the same way again! The creamy pumpkin mixes well with the sweet (and alcoholic) notes of the eggnog and makes for a unique and delicious combination.
Keto Eggnog
If you’re watching your sugar, then this eggnog is one you can’t miss! Replace your sugar with sugar-free sweeteners, use unsweetened almond milk, and of course keep your whipping cream for a creamy, luscious beverage without the sugar!
Add Butterscotch Schnapps
Eggnog just got even better with the addition of butterscotch schnapps to lend a buttery richness to it to ensure that it goes down much smoother.
Vegan Eggnog
Eggnog without eggs? What?! Yes, you read that right! Substitute your eggs for soft tofu, soy milk, and vanilla extract and give it a whirl if you’re going vegan or have a vegan loved one you want to include in your eggnog tradition.
Add Nutella
This is another fun eggnog addition that will make you wonder why you hadn’t tried it sooner. It helps to bring out a spiced, nutty chocolate taste that you didn’t realize you were missing out on!
Bonus: Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe
Made with only three ingredients, this simple eggnog bread pudding is a great holiday treat for those cozy nights by the fire watching the Christmas lights twinkle.
To create this eggnog dessert masterpiece, you’ll need cinnamon raisin bread cut into cubes, a buttered 8″ square dish to bake in, your favorite eggnog (whether it’s alcoholic or not) and eggs. Pour your eggnog and egg mixture over the bread cubes. You’ll want to cover and refrigerate this mixture for at least an hour or up to a full day before baking. Then, you’ll bake it at 375 degrees for about 35 to 45 minutes.
To serve this concoction, we recommend serving it warm with either some maple syrup, vanilla ice cream, powdered sugar, or a homemade butter rum sauce.
Expand Your Eggnog Horizons as You Enjoy the Holiday Season
Whether you like your eggnog boozy or alcohol free, and no matter whether you prefer rum, brandy, or whisky, we hope that you’ve enjoyed checking out the history of eggnog, ten ways to make eggnog, and the delicious bonus eggnog bread pudding recipe. Try some of these methods and enjoy the holidays!