A large bowl of homemade eggnog sets the tone for a Christmas party in a way no other drink (or food) can. It’s one of the most classic Christmas cocktails for a reason. And this classic eggnog recipe—which makes a creamy, boozy drink with a fluffy cap of whipped egg whites—is a keeper. It’s flavored with both brandy and rum, and the only other ingredients you need are pantry staples.
The key to the best eggnog is to beat the egg yolks and sugar until the sugar has dissolved and the yolks are light in color and thickened. Then you’ll slowly mix the alcohol and dairy into the egg mixture and chill it before folding in the whipped egg whites for a frothy finish, topped with a dusting of freshly grated nutmeg. While making traditional eggnog used to be considered slightly laborious (since you have to whip the yolks, then the whites to stiff peaks), using a stand mixer (or even a hand mixer) makes assembling this holiday drink a breeze. When your mixing bowl gets very full, you can switch to a wire hand whisk and a rubber spatula for the last steps.
Serve with festive snacks and an assortment of Christmas cookies to set the mood for any holiday season soirée.
Raw eggs are not recommended for the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.
Recipe notes
Back to topSee Related Recipes and Cooking Tips
47 Festive Christmas Cocktails to Keep Spirits Bright
Make merry with spiked hot chocolate, crowd-pleasing punch, and warm whiskey cocktails.29 Stunning Meringue Recipes
Like peppermint meringue cookies, pies with billowing torched toppings, and the poofiest skillet pancake.The 17 Most Popular Drink Recipes of 2023
Here are the fizzy, bitter, bright, and smoky drinks our readers made the most this year.30 New Year’s Eve Cocktails to Toast Through the Night
Watch the ball drop with one of these festive New Year’s drinks in hand.How Punch Became Everyone’s Favorite Party Drink
This family of drinks is so 1630s—but your holiday party wouldn’t be complete without it.67 December Recipes to Cook Before 2023 Is Done
Preheat the oven, turn up the heat on the frying oil, and truss those turkeys—these recipes are here to get you through December and to the new year.17 Grapefruit Cocktails for Those Who Like It Bitter and Sweet
These grapefruit juice drinks are just the refreshment you’re looking for.59 Christmas Eve Dinner Ideas for Holly Jolly Comfort
Yes, there’s fruitcake.39 Classic Cocktails That Shaped the Way We Drink
Mix your way through these iconic drinks for a crash course in the fundamentals of bartending.
