In December, the first pour of homemade eggnog marks the beginning of the holiday season. For me, no Christmas cocktail rivals the classic eggnog. Thick, creamy, and spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, the cocktail brings festive cheer and makes Christmas evenings memorable.
Made with milk, sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and often rum or brandy, this drink was popularised by George Washington, who prized his secret eggnog as the season’s crown. It invites people to slow down, gather, and savor the time spent together. Whether served before dinner, during Christmas Eve movies, or as a holiday finale, eggnog completes the season.
What makes this version special is how it highlights the flavors of fresh ingredients without overwhelming sweetness or heaviness found in many recipes. Warm milk is gently tempered into yolks, allowing the custard to remain smooth and rich. The spice is added with intention, never overpowering but deeply aromatic. Cream is carefully folded in, resulting in a light yet indulgent texture. Each step, though simple, delivers clear taste and balance. It’s a recipe you’ll return to every year—a family ritual as cherished as setting up the tree.
