Eggnog

Christmas season feels complete once the first glass of eggnog appears, and this recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to make and share. When I discovered Jeffrey Morgenthaler’s eggnog recipe years ago, I understood why so many people call it the smoothest and easiest version out there. The flavor is rich and silky, the method is simple, and every batch feels like a celebration in itself. This version follows his iconic base recipe.

This eggnog also fits so many occasions throughout December. It works beautifully as a Christmas cocktail, a holiday recipe for entertaining, or a cozy winter treat on its own. You can serve it in chilled coupes for a classy look or pour it into mugs for a more relaxed style. No matter how you serve it, this eggnog recipe delivers comfort, nostalgia, and a festive spirit in every sip.

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Why You’ll Love This

This classic eggnog recipe is loved because it is simple, reliable, and incredibly smooth. You do not need complicated steps or special tools, and the final result tastes like something you would expect from a high end bar. Morgenthaler’s approach keeps the flavors balanced so the eggnog feels rich but never too heavy.

A few reasons it becomes a holiday staple:

• Quick prep makes it easy for busy holiday weeks.
• Consistent results thanks to the blender method.
• Perfect balance of creaminess and warmth from the brandy and rum.
• Works for both small gatherings and large holiday parties.
• Always tastes stronger and smoother the next day as the flavors rest.

Once you try it, you will understand why so many people return to this recipe every Christmas.

Ingredients

This classic eggnog uses just a few ingredients, yet each one plays an important part in creating the smooth texture and holiday flavor. The eggs and sugar provide the foundation, while the combination of spirits adds depth. Milk and cream lighten the drink just enough to keep it balanced.

Eggnog Recipe (serves 3-4 servings)

• 2 large eggs
• 3 oz superfine or baker’s sugar (NOT powdered!) (90 ml)
• 2 oz brandy (60 ml)
• 2 oz spiced rum (60 ml)
• 6 oz whole milk (180 ml)
• 4 oz heavy cream (120 ml)
• Whole nutmeg cloves

Party-Size Eggnog (Approx. 20 servings)

• 8 large eggs
• 12 oz superfine baker’s sugar
• 8 oz brandy
• 8 oz spiced rum
• 24 oz whole milk
• 16 oz heavy cream
• whole nutmeg cloves

Superfine sugar dissolves more easily than regular sugar, which helps keep the texture smooth. Whole nutmeg grated fresh on top adds a fragrant finish that is worth the extra step.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Choosing the right spirits can elevate your eggnog without complicating the recipe. Brandy and spiced rum work beautifully together, but there are plenty of brands that suit different price points and preferences.

• Brandy Options: E&J Brandy and Korbel Brandy both offer a warm, mellow flavor that blends well with cream.
• Spiced Rum: Captain Morgan or Sailor Jerry bring holiday spice notes that complement the sweetness.
• Milk Substitutes: Whole milk is ideal, but 2 percent works if you want something lighter.
• Cream Alternatives: Half and half can be used for a less rich version.
• Sugar Swap: Superfine baker’s sugar is best, but you can pulse regular sugar in a blender to mimic the texture.

These substitutions keep the spirit of Morgenthaler’s recipe while allowing a few adjustments for your taste.

Equipment and Glassware

You do not need complicated tools to make this recipe, which is part of what makes it so appealing. A blender or stand mixer handles most of the work, and chilled glasses help the eggnog taste even smoother.

Helpful equipment includes:

• Blender or stand mixer
• Measuring cups or jiggers
• Microplane or grater for nutmeg
• Martini glass

Martini glasses give the drink an elegant holiday look, while wine glasses offer a more casual and generous pour.

How to Make It

The blender method is what makes this recipe so easy. It creates a thick, creamy base without needing to cook anything. As the eggnog chills, the flavors blend together and the texture becomes even smoother.

1. Pour two eggs into a blender or stand mixer. Beat them at the lowest setting for one minute on medium speed.

2. Slowly add the baker’s sugar while blending, keeping the machine on the lowest setting. Blend for one additional minute.

3. With the blender still running, add brandy, rum, milk, and cream until well combined.

4. Chill the mixture thoroughly.

5. Serve in chilled glasses and grate fresh nutmeg over each serving.

You can serve it immediately, but it tastes even better after resting for several hours or overnight.

Pro Tips

A few extra steps can help turn a simple eggnog into a rich and unforgettable holiday cocktail. Since this recipe is uncooked, balancing temperature and texture makes a big difference in the final result.

• Use very cold milk and cream for a smoother blend.
• Chill your serving glasses to enhance the creamy texture.
• Add a tiny pinch of salt to bring out the sweetness.
• Let the eggnog sit overnight for a stronger, smoother flavor.
• Freshly grate nutmeg for a more aromatic finish.
• Pulse sugar in a blender if you do not have superfine sugar.
• Stir gently before serving if the mixture settles.

These tips help ensure your eggnog comes out silky and perfectly balanced.

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible, which makes it fun to customize for different holiday needs. You can make it lighter, richer, or alcohol free while keeping the flavor comforting and festive.

• Bourbon Eggnog: Replace brandy with bourbon for a deeper flavor.
• Coconut Eggnog: Add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Spiced Eggnog: Add cinnamon, allspice, or vanilla extract.
• Alcohol Free Version: Skip the spirits and add extra milk plus a dash of rum extract.
• Coffee Eggnog: Add a shot of chilled espresso for a caffeinated kick.

These versions keep the spirit of the original while giving you new ways to enjoy it.

When to Serve and Pairings

Eggnog is one of the most iconic Christmas cocktails and works beautifully for holiday gatherings, dessert parties, and cozy winter nights at home. It is rich enough to stand alone or pair with a small treat on the side.

Serve it with:

• Gingerbread cookies or spiced biscuits
• Chocolate truffles
• Fruitcake or panettone
• Peppermint bark
• Other Christmas cocktails like Hot Buttered Rum or Christmas Punch

These pairings enhance the creamy texture and warm spice notes of the eggnog.

Storage and Serving Notes

This recipe stores well, which is one of the reasons it has become so popular. The overnight rest actually improves the flavor, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules. You can prepare a batch in advance and serve it when guests arrive.

• Store eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Best enjoyed within two to three days.
• Stir before serving, as natural separation may occur.
• Do not freeze, as the dairy will separate.

Chilling before serving also thickens the texture, which many people love.

FAQs

If you are new to making homemade eggnog, these common questions will help guide you. Eggnog may look fancy, but Morgenthaler’s method keeps it simple.

Is raw eggnog safe to drink?
This recipe uses raw eggs, which many people enjoy safely every year. Use fresh eggs and keep the mixture refrigerated at all times.

Can I use different spirits?
Yes, bourbon, whiskey, or cognac all work well, but brandy and spiced rum offer the most classic flavor.

Can I make this recipe thicker?
Add a splash more cream or reduce the milk for a richer texture.

Why superfine sugar?
It dissolves quickly and keeps the blend smooth without any graininess.

Does eggnog taste better the next day?
Yes. Resting the mixture helps the flavors blend and improves the texture.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoyed this cozy winter drink recipe, here are a few more holiday cocktails you may love:

• Three Olives Espresso Spiked Hot Chocolate: Rich, warm, and perfect for snowy nights.
• Gingerbread White Russian: A creamy cocktail with holiday spice.
• Cranberry Bourbon Smash: Bright, tart, and great for Christmas parties.
• Mulled Wine: Warm, spiced, and ideal for gatherings.
• Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned: A winter twist on a classic cocktail.

Each of these recipes brings its own holiday charm and pairs well with seasonal food and celebrations.