Culinary historians believe eggnog originated in England, where it gained popularity in the 1700s. The word eggnog may be derived from the word nog, an old English varietal of beer. It may have also descended from the word noggin, a petite wooden mug. By the 19th century, eggnog was recognized as a traditional holiday beverage throughout America.

‍

Eggnog Ingredients

Traditionally served during the holidays, eggnog is a custard like beverage made with milk, heavy cream and eggs.

‍

Milk and cream: Start with room-temperature whole milk and heavy whipping cream. Tip: Make eggnog dairy-free by swapping out whole milk and heavy whipping cream for canned coconut milk and coconut cream.

‍

Eggs: Make sure to use large, pasteurized eggs. Gently separate the egg yolks from the whites.

‍

Spices: Flavor eggnog with pure vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon and allspice.

How to Make Eggnog

Tip: Make eggnog dairy-free by swapping out whole milk and heavy whipping cream for canned coconut milk and coconut cream.

3 Eggnogs to Try

Peppermint Eggnog

A mug of silky holiday eggnog gets extra sweetness from notes of refreshing peppermint crushed candies along the rim. Serve with peppermint-stick stirrers.

‍

View recipe

‍

More Ways to Use Eggnog:

‍

Enjoy this seasonal beverage by the mugful or mix it into everyday foods.  

• Drizzle it into a warm morning latté.

• Fold it into bread pudding.

• Soak French toast in eggnog.

• Pour eggnog into cake, muffin or waffle batter.

• Mix it into oatmeal or other hot cereal.

• Whip up an eggnog milkshake or smoothie.

• Incorporate it into mashed sweet potatoes or yams.

• Soak ladyfingers for eggnog tiramisu.

• Splash it into crème brûlée

How to Store & Freeze Eggnog

‍

Eggnog may be kept in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Or freeze eggnog in an airtight container, leaving a ½-inch headspace at the top to allow eggnog to expand. Eggnog can be frozen up to 6 months.