Wow! Where has 2020 gone? If you’re like me, you had so many great plans and expectations for the first year of the new decade. And even though this year isn’t quite what you anticipated, holiday time with your family isn’t canceled. December is National Eggnog Month and what better way to celebrate than with this festive drink?
History of Eggnog
It is believed that eggnog originated in England and was reserved for the wealthy because of its rich ingredients. The festive drink made its way to the U.S. in the 18th century and became popular around the holidays because it was often served warm with a splash of alcohol – both favorites in the colder months. Today, eggnog-like drinks are popular all over the world:
- In Puerto Rico, it’s made with rum and coconut milk and called a “coquito.”
- In Mexico, it’s made with cinnamon and called a “rompope.”
- In Peru, it’s made with Peruvian brandy and is called a “biblia con pisco.”
- In Germany, it’s called “eierpunsch” and is made with white wine.
- In the South, especially here in New Orleans, it’s sometimes known as milk punch and made with the traditional ingredients of milk, spices, eggs, sugar, whipped cream and an optional shot of your liquor of choice.
How to Make Your Own Eggnog
There are numerous recipes available online – or perhaps you have a family recipe that has been handed down. While traditional recipes call for full-fat milk, eggnog can be made with fat-free or lower fat versions as well as with lactose-free milk. One thing to check is if the recipe includes raw eggs or tempered eggs. The CDC states that eating raw eggs or food/drink containing raw eggs can raise the risk of salmonella infection. And that is definitely not the way you want to spend your holiday.
Interested in making your own eggnog? Follow these simple instructions!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (any fat level or lactose-free milk can be used)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 6 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Directions:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, vanilla, cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg on low. Slowly bring to a boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar.
- Slowly add egg mixture to the milk and heat to 160 F to temper the eggs, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes.
- Strain the mixture to remove any cooked egg and the whole cloves.
- Chill overnight.
- Before serving, whisk the heavy whipping cream in a bowl, using a whisk or electric mixer, until frothy.
- Add whipped cream to chilled eggnog mixture and combine well. Enjoy!
Serves 4.
Eggnog is a timeless tradition that should be shared. So, grab your family and friends, fire up FaceTime or Zoom and cheers to the season!
Find more delicious holiday recipes.
