What Alcohol Pairs Perfectly with Eggnog?

Eggnog, a classic holiday drink, is a rich, creamy, and decadent beverage that is perfect for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Eggnog is made from a mixture of eggs, cream, milk, sugar, and spices, which gives it its distinctive flavor. However, eggnog can be made even better by adding a splash of alcohol. Adding liquor to eggnog can transform the drink into an adult beverage that is perfect for festive holiday gatherings.

However, choosing the right alcohol to pair with eggnog can be a daunting task. There are many options to choose from, including rum, whiskey, brandy, and cognac, each of which can significantly impact the taste and aroma of the drink. In this article, we will explore the different types of alcohol that pair perfectly with eggnog and why they are the best choices.

Why is Eggnog Alcohol so Popular During Holidays?

One of the reasons why eggnog spiked with alcohol is such a popular holiday drink is that adding alcohol to eggnog helps to cut through the richness of the cream and sugar. The combination of egg, sugar, and cream can be quite heavy and may be too sweet for some people. The addition of alcohol helps to balance the sweetness and gives the drink an extra kick.

Additionally, serving eggnog with alcohol is a great way to warm up on a cold winter night. Eggnog is typically served warm and can be made even cozier by adding alcohol. Alcohol can also help to add a little bit of holiday cheer to any gathering, making it the perfect drink for socializing with friends and family during the holiday season.

Which Alcohol is Best for Eggnog?

Rum

Rum is the most popular alcohol to add to eggnog. It has a smooth, sweet flavor that is perfect for holiday drinks. Rum is made from sugarcane or molasses and pairs perfectly with the sweet and spicy flavors of eggnog. Additionally, the sweetness of the rum helps to balance the richness of the cream and eggs, resulting in a perfectly balanced drink. When it comes to rum, dark rum is the best choice for eggnog as it has a deep flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients in the drink.

Whiskey

Whiskey is another popular alcohol to add to eggnog. It has a robust, smoky flavor that pairs well with the spicy flavors of eggnog. Whiskey is distilled from grains such as corn, barley, and wheat, which gives it a distinct flavor profile that complements the taste of eggnog. Additionally, whiskey adds a little bit of warmth to the drink, making it ideal for cold winter nights.

Brandy

Brandy is a smoother and slightly sweeter alcohol than whiskey or rum, which makes it an excellent choice for eggnog. Brandy is distilled from fruit juices such as grapes, apples, and berries, which gives it a fruity aroma and a slightly more complex taste than other alcohols. Additionally, brandy has a slightly higher alcohol content than most other liquors, which can make for a stronger drink.

Cognac

Cognac is a French brandy that is considered to be one of the finest alcohols in the world. It has a rich, complex flavor that is perfect for pairing with eggnog. Cognac is made from specific types of grapes, which gives it a distinctive flavor that is different from other alcohols. Additionally, cognac has a high alcohol content, which makes it an excellent choice for a stronger drink.

How Much Alcohol Should Be Added to Eggnog?

When adding alcohol to eggnog, it is essential to remember that eggnog is a rich and creamy drink that can quickly become overpowering, especially when paired with a strong alcohol like rum or whiskey. It is recommended to add 1-1.5 ounces of alcohol per 4-6 ounces of eggnog. This ratio is the perfect balance of alcohol and eggnog, resulting in a delicious, boozy drink that won’t leave you feeling too tipsy.

What are some Tips for Making the Perfect Eggnog?

Making homemade eggnog can be a little bit tricky, but it is worth it to get that perfect glass of holiday cheer. Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect eggnog:

  • Use high-quality ingredients: Eggnog is a simple drink that relies on using high-quality ingredients to shine. Use fresh eggs, good quality milk and cream, and high-grade spices to make the best drink.
  • Use freshly grated nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg adds a lovely flavor to eggnog, and it is an essential ingredient in the drink. Grate your nutmeg fresh and add it just before serving for the best taste.
  • Allow the eggnog to chill: Eggnog should be chilled for several hours before drinking to allow the flavors to meld. Chilling also helps to thicken the drink and make it creamier.
  • Use a frother: Using a frother can help to create a thick, velvety foam on top of the eggnog, making it look and taste more luxurious.

How to Make Homemade Eggnog with Alcohol?

If you’re feeling brave, you can make homemade eggnog with alcohol. Here’s a simple recipe that you can try:

Ingredients Quantity
Large egg yolks 6
Sugar 3/4 cup
Whole milk 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Rum 1 cup
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon
  1. Separate the egg yolks from the whites and set the whites aside for another use.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are light and frothy.
  3. Add the sugar to the egg yolks and whisk until the mixture is pale yellow and thick.
  4. In a saucepan, heat the milk, cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon until just simmering.
  5. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the bowl containing the egg and sugar mixture, whisking constantly.
  6. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  7. Remove from heat and add the rum, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
  8. Allow the eggnog to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
  9. Before serving, sprinkle with some freshly grated nutmeg and enjoy.

Conclusion

Eggnog is a delicious holiday drink that can be made even better by adding a splash of alcohol. Rum, whiskey, brandy, and cognac are all excellent choices for eggnog as they complement the flavors of the drink and add a little bit of warmth and complexity. When making homemade eggnog, be sure to use high-quality ingredients and chill the drink for several hours before serving. Remember to add just enough alcohol to give the drink an extra kick without overpowering the other flavors. Now go ahead and make yourself a glass of spiked eggnog and raise a toast to the holiday season.

FAQs on Eggnog with Alcohol

1. What else can be added to Eggnog?

You can add a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg, a cinnamon stick, or whipped cream to your eggnog to make it even more festive.

2. How long can Eggnog be stored?

Eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days after it has been made.

3. Can I use low-fat milk or cream in making Eggnog?

No, low-fat milk or cream won’t give the same richness and creaminess to your eggnog as whole milk or cream would.

4. Can I use other types of alcohol in making Eggnog?

Yes, you can use other types of alcohol, such as bourbon or spiced rum, to make eggnog. However, do take note that the taste and aroma of eggnog might be affected when using other types of alcohol.

5. Can Eggnog be served cold?

Yes, eggnog can be served cold, but it is usually served warm or hot.

References:

  • “Eggnog with booze.” Liquor.com, https://www.liquor.com/recipes/eggnog-with-booze-recipe/. Accessed 13 Dec. 2021.
  • “The perfect chestnut eggnog recipe.” BBC Food, https://www.bbc.com/food/recipes/theperfectchestnuteggn_93604. Accessed 13 Dec. 2021.
  • “Eggnog with Whiskey recipe.” Food Network, https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/eggnog-with-whiskey-recipe-1973139. Accessed 13 Dec. 2021.

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