Easy
Sweet
5 Minutes
Highball Glass
Ingredients
Eggnog is a classic cocktail, synonymous with wintertime and, of course, the holidays.
Here we offer a traditional Eggnog cocktail recipe that’s so delicious you’ll wonder why people drink Eggnog only during the holidays.
How To Make an EGGNOG Cocktail
Bar tools you’ll need
Fine Strainer
Jigger
Boston Shaker
How to Mix
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Fill a Cocktail Shaker with Ice Cubes.
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Measure and pour in Cognac and Simple Syrup.
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Crack a whole egg (white and yolk) into the Shaker, followed by Milk and Cream.
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Shake vigorously until the Shaker is ice cold.
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Fill a Highball Glass with Ice Cubes.
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Use a Hawthorne Strainer to strain the mixture into an empty shaker, discarding the ice. Shake again without ice (Reverse Dry Shake) to create a frothy texture.
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Use a Hawthorne Strainer to strain the mixture into the Highball Glass.
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Garnish with a pinch of Nutmeg.
Watch how to make an Eggnog cocktail:
All about The Eggnog Cocktail
An Eggnog cocktail is a creamy, winter warmer that dates back several centuries. Made with Cognac, eggs, cream, milk, simple syrup and spices, Eggnog is traditionally served during the holidays when it’s cold and dark outside.
With its creamy blend of milk, cream and Cognac and mixed with spices that are associated with the holidays, sipping an Eggnog cocktail is like drinking a thick, festive Cognac Milkshake. Mmmm, delicious.
As we share in the section ‘How to Make the Perfect Eggnog’, your choice of Cognac will also shape the flavor of your Eggnog, whether you opt for a Cognac that’s young and fruity or mature and rich.
Who invented eggnog? If only it was that simple! We do know that the term “nog” first appeared in 1693, referring to a strong beer brewed in East Anglia, or possibly from “noggin,” a Middle English term for a small wooden mug used for alcohol.
The word ‘Eggnog’ dates back to around 1775, but it’s likely that the drink itself predates that by several hundred years. In fact, it’s generally agreed that Eggnog is a descendant of Posset, a warm ale punch with eggs that was consumed by European monks in the 13th century.
One source suggests that the term ‘Eggnog’ may have originated from ‘Egg and Grog,’ a mix of Rum served in small Wooden Mugs, though this is disputed.
Today, Eggnog is synonymous with Christmas. But even this isn’t anything new. According to one source, Eggnog has been associated with Christmas since the 1700s.
Choose Fresh
Using fresh ingredients in your cocktail is always going to give you a better tasting drink because the ingredient is fresher. So, when making Eggnog, using freshly grated Nutmeg is far superior to pre-ground. It offers a cleaner taste and a more fragrant, which will enhance the drink’s overall quality and make each sip aromatic and, well, enjoyable.
Choosing your favorite Cognac
When choosing your Cognac for your Eggnog, it’s all about personal preference.
Cognac comes in various types, including VS (Very Special), aged at least two years, VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale), aged at least four years, and XO (Extra Old), aged at least ten years. Each type offers unique flavor profiles, from the youthful, fruity notes of VS to the rich, complex flavors of XO.
Some people may prefer the robust, layered flavors of an XO, while others might enjoy the lighter, more vibrant notes of a VS or VSOP. It’s your drink, so make it to your liking!
Vanilia Cold Brew Eggnog
This simplified, easy-to-make Eggnog variation is one of our favorites here at Absolut. Instead of Cognac, it uses Vodka…but not just any Vodka – Absolut Vanilia (Vanilla-Flavored Vodka). Oh yes, adding the flavor Vanilla to an Eggnog is a no-brainer, an absolute match made in heaven.
This Eggnog twist combines Absolut Vanilia (vanilla-flavored vodka), Kahlúa, Cold Brew, and Eggnog, served in a Rocks Glass with Ice Cubes, to create a creamy, dreamy delight that’s just delicious. Discover our Vanilia Cold Brew Nog recipe.
Rum Eggnog
Instead of Bourbon or Brandy, this Eggnog variation uses Light Rum, which offers a very different flavor profile and drinking experience – lighter, sweeter with subtle tropical notes. There’s still the rich, velvety texture from the Cream and Milk and that classic, frothy finish from Egg. Here’s how to make a Rum Eggnog.
Scotch Eggnog
This variation is more robust and nuanced, perfect for Whisky enthusiasts. This eggnog recipe uses Scotch Whisky to introduce smoky and peaty notes, resulting in a complex flavor profile.
The addition of Whisky/Honey Liqueur adds a touch of sweetness and warmth, while Orange Curaçao brings a hint of citrusy brightness. Cream and Egg provide the classic rich and velvety texture, topped with a sprinkle of Nutmeg for a festive finish. Learn how to make a Scotch Eggnog.
An Eggnog is best served in a Rocks Glass or a Stemmed Glass, such as a Coupe or a Brandy Snifter. Why? These Glasses enhance the drink’s rich, creamy texture and allow the aromas of the Cognac to be appreciated, providing a sophisticated and enjoyable drinking experience.
To garnish your Eggnog, we recommend using freshly grated Nutmeg or Cinnamon, both which add a warm, aromatic touch. A Cinnamon Stick can also be used for stirring, while a dollop of Whipped Cream or a sprinkle of Cocoa Powder can enhance its creamy texture and festive appearance. Anything to accentuate those Holiday feelings!
Eggnog FAQ
No. Eggnog and Advocaat are similar but they’re not the same. Eggnog is made with Milk, Cream, Eggs, Sugar, and Spices, often spiked with Brandy, Rum, or Bourbon. Advocaat, a Dutch Liqueur, is thicker and richer, made primarily with Egg Yolks, Sugar, and Brandy, resulting in a custard-like texture.
Yes, it most certainly can. For example, you can make a Vanilia Cold Brew Nog, which offers a twist on traditional Eggnog by using Vanilla-Flavored Vodka.
Eggnog is traditionally served chilled, offering a refreshing and creamy treat. However, it can also be enjoyed hot, much like mulled wine, making it a cozy option for cold days.
You can make your own Simple Syrup in just minutes. All you need is Boiling Water and Sugar. Check out this article to learn how to make Simple Syrup.
