A From-Scratch, Classic Eggnog Recipe and How to Jazz it Up (2024)

Classic Eggnog Recipe Courtesy Frank Caiafa, author, The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book

While eggnog seems synonymous with Christmas, the creamy, fortifying drink came into its own as a holiday specialty in the late 1800s, says New York City bartender Frank Caiafa. He managed the bar program at Peaco*ck Alley in New York City’s venerable Waldorf-Astoria hotel, from 2005 until the hotel’s closing earlier this year.

Caiafa dove deep into the Waldorf’s co*cktail archives for The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book, which has numerous variations that include warm, cold and nonalcoholic varieties.

Despite the historic hotel shutting down, Caiafa hopes its recipes will live on. Here, he shows you how to make his classic eggnog recipe at home. It encourages customization, as you substitute spirits on hand or preferred flavorings.

Here’s how to riff on the classic eggnog, based on Caiafa’s considerable research.

Select the spirit: Cognac, Bourbon or rum (including spiced rum) work well. Caiafa prefers overproof Cognacs and higher-proof whiskeys, something “both sweet and strong enough to retain its identity.” Rye whiskey works as well. Having trouble deciding? Split the base, using half-rum, half-brandy.

Milk or cream? “I prefer cream for its richness, but if you’re planning on enjoying more than one, half-and-half works well enough,” he says. While many older recipes call for milk, Caiafa says that it can make eggnog a bit too thin.

Optional additions:

A From-Scratch, Classic Eggnog Recipe and How to Jazz it Up (1)Vanilla extract brings luxurious flavor, according to Caiafa.

A From-Scratch, Classic Eggnog Recipe and How to Jazz it Up (2)Fortified wines add complexity. Swap an ounce of your chosen liquor for an ounce of Port (this works especially well with rum or brandy) or Madeira (mixed with rum, this variation makes the historic Baltimore Eggnog).

A From-Scratch, Classic Eggnog Recipe and How to Jazz it Up (3)Add chilled coffee or cold-brew coffee for a creamy nog that channels a mocha latte vibe. Garnish with nutmeg or dark chocolate shavings.

Last Updated: June 1, 2023

Ingredients

1 egg

½ ounce simple syrup

2 ounces Cognac, rum or Bourbon

1 ounce heavy cream

2 drops pure vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

Crack egg into mixing glass. Add syrup and shake without ice for 5 seconds. Add remaining ingredients with ice. Shake well for at least 10 seconds. Fine-strain into small wine glass or chilled co*cktail glass. Garnish with fresh-grated nutmeg.

A From-Scratch, Classic Eggnog Recipe and How to Jazz it Up (2024)

FAQs

How to jazz up egg nog? ›

Spiced Rum

Speaking of spice, this eggnog addition packs a punch. And one sip will be all the proof you need that rum isn't just for tiki drinks. With flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, and clove taking center stage and a full-bodied creamy texture, spiced rum is a natural BFF for eggnog.

How do you spice up regular eggnog? ›

Top each glass with a dash of nutmeg (freshly grated is best) and a pinch of finely grated orange zest. Serve and enjoy, preferably near a crackling fireplace.

What can I add to eggnog to make it better? ›

Ingredients
  1. Eggnog.
  2. Spirits: rum, bourbon, whiskey, and/or brandy.
  3. Whipped cream.
  4. Syrup: caramel and/or chocolate.
  5. Spices: nutmeg, cinnamon (sticks and ground), and/or pumpkin spice.
  6. Crushed gingersnap cookies or red-hot candies, or cinnamon sugar for rimming glasses (optional)
Dec 6, 2023

What makes eggnog taste better? ›

Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract, or turn your eggnog into an iced eggnog latte by pouring a shot of espresso into the shaker. Either way, you'll feel the spirit of the holidays!

Can you add vodka to eggnog? ›

The eggnog white russian co*cktail is perfect for the holiday season! Coffee liqueur mixed with vanilla vodka and eggnog and topped with freshly grated nutmeg is the perfect treat and oh-so festive!

Should I put ice in egg nog? ›

After giving it a good shake, you can strain and serve right away, or shake it again with ice if you prefer your eggnog extra chilled.

Why is my homemade eggnog so thick? ›

The distinct flavors of egg, cream, and liquor meld together even after just a day or two in the fridge, making a smoother, more balanced cup of nog. The proteins in the eggs also start to thicken, giving eggnog its signature spoon-coating thickness.

What is eggnog spice made of? ›

Combine sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a bowl. Whip egg whites with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form. Reduce speed to medium and beat, gradually adding 1/2 of sugar mixture, until stiff peaks form. Beat egg yolks in a separate bowl until thick and lemon colored.

What flavors go best with eggnog? ›

Additional ingredients to liven up your eggnog
  • Cordials: Ginger liqueur, peppermint schnapps, white chocolate liqueur.
  • Spices: More nutmeg, cloves, allspice, cinnamon, vanilla extract.
  • Other goodies: Coffee (highly recommended), light brown sugar, chocolate syrup, maple syrup.
Dec 8, 2023

What alcohol is usually added to eggnog? ›

Eggnog is typically made with rum, brandy or bourbon, and Brown likes to start with a combination of dark rum and cognac. But there's no need to go premium; he recommends using an affordable, high-proof VS cognac. The higher alcohol level will cut through the sweetness of the rest of the ingredients.

How long is homemade eggnog good for? ›

A fresh batch of eggnog can mature for months, or even years. And some say that's a good thing.

What can I do with store-bought eggnog? ›

Seasonal eggnog is far more versatile than you might think. When you've got some left over from the holiday party, use it to make rich, nutmeg-scented mashed potatoes, oatmeal, biscuits and more.

What is golden egg nog? ›

Hood Golden Eggnog's blend of extra creamy milk, sugared yolks and spices make it a holiday favorite, whether you drink it straight from the glass or use it in your favorite recipes.

Is homemade eggnog better? ›

Making your own eggnog will spare you the additives found in store-bought varieties but a traditional recipe will be similar in calories and fat. You can lighten things up using low fat dairy products and going light on the sugar.

What is golden eggnog? ›

Golden eggnog is a traditional holiday drink made from a combination of milk, cream, sugar, and beaten eggs. The mixture is typically flavored with vanilla, nutmeg, and sometimes a splash of rum or bourbon, giving it a warm and indulgent taste.

What to decorate eggnog with? ›

#1: Cinnamon

I love the traditional feel of cinnamon as a garnish and rim for eggnog. When choosing cinnamon as a garnish, I like to rim the glass in a dusting of cinnamon and finish the look with a cinnamon stick.

What to mix with egg nog reddit? ›

Traditionally, it should be rum. I'd do bourbon because I love bourbon and I think bourbon goes well with the flavors of eggnog. Brandy also works quite well. There's always vodka if you're looking for a 'cleaner' flavor.

Does eggnog curdle with alcohol? ›

Though rare, there is the potential that eggnog will curdle when it's mixed with alcohol. That's typically due to too much acid interacting with the dairy. This can come from high-proof liquor or milk that's either lower in fat or going sour. For the best eggnog, use fresh, preferably whole, milk.

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