As the chilly winds of winter usher in the holiday season, there’s nothing like the creamy, spiced warmth of Bourbon Eggnog to elevate your gatherings. I discovered this delightful recipe one brisk evening, cozying up in my kitchen while the scent of nutmeg and cinnamon wafted through the air. The first sip of this velvety concoction took me back to festive family gatherings, where laughter and joy mingled with the comforting embrace of good food.
This Bourbon Eggnog isn’t just any holiday drink; it’s a celebration in a glass. Made with fresh eggs, rich heavy cream, and the perfect kick of bourbon, you’ll find it both indulgent and heartwarming. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, bringing a gourmet touch to your holiday festivities without the hassle. Bring on the mistletoe and the cheer—this creamy potion will be the star of your seasonal soirées, bringing both friends and family together in delightful unison. Ready to impress your guests and create some unforgettable memories? Let’s dive into this festive recipe!
Why is Bourbon Eggnog a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth in every sip: This Bourbon Eggnog envelops you in cozy flavors, making it the perfect drink for chilly gatherings.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress guests without the stress.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a holiday party or a quiet night in, it’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Versatile option: Enjoy it spiced up with flavors and adjust the bourbon kick to fit your tastes perfectly.
Memorable moments: Share this timeless recipe with loved ones and create delightful holiday memories together. If you want more warming recipes, check out my Hot Chocolate for another festive favorite!
Bourbon Eggnog Ingredients
For the Base
• 6 eggs – Fresh eggs provide the richness that makes this eggnog creamy and delicious.
• 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk – This adds a sweet, luscious texture that’s hard to resist.
• 2 1/2 cups milk – Whole milk creates a smooth, velvety base for your Bourbon Eggnog.
• Pinch of salt – A little salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
For the Spices
• 1 tbsp ground ginger – This gives your eggnog a warm kick, perfect for the holiday season.
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves – Cloves add a deep, aromatic note that complements the other spices beautifully.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – Classic cinnamon brings a comforting warmth to the mix.
• 2 tsp ground nutmeg – Nutmeg adds a nutty, spiced finish that makes this drink unforgettable.
For the Creaminess
• 2 cups heavy cream – The key ingredient for achieving that rich, creamy texture eggnog is known for.
For the Kick
• 3/4 cup Bourbon – This is where the magic happens; Bourbon adds warmth and depth, making it a true holiday treat.
For Sweetening
• 3 tbsp sugar – Sweeten to taste, allowing the flavors to shine without being overly sugary.
This Bourbon Eggnog recipe promises to be the highlight of your seasonal celebrations, creating laughter and warmth shared over every glass!
How to Make Bourbon Eggnog
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Simmer Milk: Add milk to a large saucepan and bring it to a light simmer over low heat. Be careful not to let it boil, as we want to keep it smooth and creamy.
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Beat Egg Yolks: Separate the egg yolks into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, beat them for about 5 minutes until they are frothy and light in color, creating a lovely base for your eggnog.
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Mix in Sweetened Condensed Milk: Add the sweetened condensed milk to the beaten egg yolks. Beat together for an additional 2-3 minutes, making sure it becomes well combined and silky.
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Combine with Warm Milk: Gradually pour the warm milk into the bowl of beaten eggs and condensed milk, about one cup at a time. This helps to avoid cooking the eggs and keeps the mixture smooth.
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Return to Heat: Pour the eggnog mixture back into the saucepan and simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir every 2-3 minutes until the texture thickens slightly.
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Prepare Ice Bath: Create an ice bath by filling a large mixing bowl with ice and water. Place a smaller bowl on top and pour the eggnog mixture into the smaller bowl to cool it quickly.
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Cool Down: If you aren’t using an ice bath, allow the eggnog to cool for about 20-30 minutes until it reaches room temperature, ensuring a balanced flavor.
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Beat Egg Whites: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on high speed until bubbly and frothy, bringing some airy texture to your eggnog.
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Add Sugar: Sprinkle in the 3 tablespoons of sugar into the frothy egg whites and continue beating until soft peaks begin to form, adding sweetness and lightness.
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Flavor the Eggnog: Once cooled, gently stir in the ground ginger, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, heavy cream, a pinch of salt, and the bourbon until all ingredients are well blended.
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Fold in Egg Whites: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the eggnog mixture using a spatula, maintaining that dreamy lightness we love about homemade eggnog.
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Chill and Serve: Refrigerate your delightful Bourbon Eggnog for about 30 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Then, pour into glasses and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bourbon Eggnog
Egg Freshness: Use fresh eggs for a richer flavor and creamier texture, ensuring your Bourbon Eggnog is as delicious as possible.
Mixing Technique: Beat egg yolks until frothy, but be gentle when folding in egg whites. This maintains the lightness that is so delightful in homemade eggnog.
Warm Gradually: Always add warm milk slowly to avoid cooking the eggs. This simple step will help you achieve that smooth, dreamlike consistency.
Chill Properly: Chill your eggnog before serving to enhance the flavors. A quick ice bath speeds up cooling—just remember to stir gently as it chills!
Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust spices according to personal taste. More nutmeg or a hint of vanilla can elevate the experience of your Bourbon Eggnog!
How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Eggnog
Fridge: Store your Bourbon Eggnog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, the delicious flavors will stay fresh and inviting.
Freezer: For longer storage, pour the eggnog into freezer-safe containers leaving some space for expansion. It can freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If desired, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly until warmed. Avoid boiling to maintain its creamy texture and flavors.
Serving Tip: Before serving chilled, stir well and consider garnishing with a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch to your Bourbon Eggnog!
What to Serve with Bourbon Eggnog?
This festive drink pairs beautifully with a variety of cozy dishes that harmonize with its creamy, spiced essence.
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Gingerbread Cookies: These chewy delights echo the warm spices in the eggnog, creating a comforting holiday experience.
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Pumpkin Pie: The rich flavors of pumpkin and spices offer a sweet balance, enhancing the sweetness of the eggnog for a perfect dessert pairing.
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Roasted Spiced Nuts: Crunchy and savory, these nuts provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess, adding an inviting crunch to your holiday spread.
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Chocolate Tart: Indulgent and rich, a decadent chocolate tart pairs wonderfully with the warmth of Bourbon Eggnog; it’s a match made in dessert heaven.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese brings a creamy, tangy element that harmonizes beautifully with the drink’s flavors.
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Mulled Wine: For those who enjoy variety, mulled wine complements the warm spices in the eggnog while providing a festive twist to your drink options.
Bring these delicious pairings to your next holiday gathering, and enjoy the warm, shared moments that make the season so special!
Make Ahead Options
These Bourbon Eggnogs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the eggnog mixture (steps 1-10) up to 24 hours in advance by following the recipe up to the point of chilling. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and delicious flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply beat the egg whites, fold them in, and let the eggnog chill for an additional 30 minutes before pouring it into glasses. This way, you can enjoy the comforting warmth of your Bourbon Eggnog without the last-minute rush!
Bourbon Eggnog Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own and explore delightful twists that will surprise your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond, coconut, or oat milk for dairy milk and heavy cream for a creamy, vegan-friendly version that’s just as delicious.
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Spiced Rum: Swap bourbon for spiced rum to add a touch of warmth and tropical flavor, enhancing the holiday cheer with a twist.
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Chocolate Hazelnut: Include a splash of chocolate hazelnut liqueur for a richer, indulgent flavor that will delight chocolate lovers.
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Extra Nutmeg: Increase the nutmeg to 3 teaspoons for an extra nutty warmth that enhances the creamy texture and spices beautifully.
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Minty Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a festive mint flavor that compliments the rich eggnog perfectly. Enjoy every sip with refreshing hints of winter.
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Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Top with homemade whipped cream flavored with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added layer of flavor and an elegant finishing touch.
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Non-Alcoholic Option: For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit bourbon and add a bit of vanilla extract for sweetness, making it suitable for everyone.
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Chai Spice Eggnog: Replace traditional spices with chai spices like cardamom and ginger for a delightful nod to cozy, comforting flavors that warm the heart.
Each variation takes your festive gatherings to new heights, inviting every palate to sit back and enjoy the magic of homemade eggnog!
Bourbon Eggnog Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best eggs for my Bourbon Eggnog?
Absolutely! Look for fresh cage-free or organic eggs when making Eggnog. Fresh eggs provide a richer flavor and a creamier texture, enhancing your final product. To check for freshness, do a simple water test: place the egg in a bowl of water—if it sinks, it’s fresh, while a floating egg indicates age.
How long can I store Bourbon Eggnog in the fridge?
You can keep your Bourbon Eggnog stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the delicious flavors remain fresh and enjoyable! Just give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur.
Can I freeze Bourbon Eggnog?
Absolutely! Pour your Bourbon Eggnog into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for it to expand. It can freeze well for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator overnight before serving. Once thawed, stir well to recombine the mixture.
What should I do if my eggnog turns out too thick?
If your Bourbon Eggnog is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a bit more milk or cream until you reach your preferred consistency. Add gradually to avoid making it too runny, and mix thoroughly. This way, you’ll achieve that perfect, creamy texture again!
What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
When serving Bourbon Eggnog, note that it contains dairy and eggs, which may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. For a vegan alternative, consider using almond or oat milk along with a plant-based cream, and substitute the eggs with silken tofu or a commercial vegan egg replacement. Always ensure to check labels if guests have allergies.
Should I serve Bourbon Eggnog warm or cold?
Most people enjoy Bourbon Eggnog chilled, so refrigerating it for about 30 minutes before serving is ideal. However, it can also be served warm if preferred—just gently warm it on the stove over low heat while stirring, avoiding boiling to maintain that creamy texture.
Creamy Bourbon Eggnog to Warm Your Holiday Spirit
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add milk to a large saucepan and bring it to a light simmer over low heat.
- Separate the egg yolks into a mixing bowl. Beat them for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add sweetened condensed milk to the beaten egg yolks and beat for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually pour warm milk into the egg mixture, one cup at a time.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Create an ice bath and cool the eggnog mixture quickly.
- Allow it to cool for about 20-30 minutes until room temperature.
- Beat egg whites in a separate bowl until frothy, then add sugar and beat until soft peaks form.
- Gently stir in spices, heavy cream, salt, and bourbon into the cooled mixture.
- Fold in the beaten egg whites carefully.
- Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving.