As the holiday season approaches, one beloved beverage takes centre stage, warming hearts and adding a dash of nostalgia to festive gatherings: eggnog. With its creamy, spiced flavour and rich history, it has become synonymous with Christmas cheer. The Christmas drink is often associated with America, but its origins are distinctly British. This drink has a fascinating history and has a unique past.
Eggnog’s history is a tale of centuries old traditions and cultural influences. While its exact origin remains a subject of debate, several historical threads help us trace the evolution of this beloved holiday drink.
The History Of Eggnog Christmas’s Ultimate Cocktail + 5 Recipes
It’s roots can be traced back to medieval Britain, where “posset,” a hot, milky beverage, was popular. Posset was made with a mixture of ale, milk, spices, and sometimes eggs. It was often used as a remedy for colds and illnesses but eventually found its way into holiday celebrations.
American Colonies
It made its way to the American colonies with early European settlers. The drink evolved, incorporating local ingredients such as rum, brandy, and whiskey, which were more readily available than ale. It became a staple at social gatherings, particularly during the holiday season. Today, many people will drink eggnog cocktails during the holiday season. However, eggnog can be consumed without alcohol as a milky, spicy beverage.
By the 18th century, eggnog had firmly established itself as a symbol of celebration, often enjoyed during special occasions like weddings and Christmas. The first president of the United States, George Washington, was known for a famous recipe that included brandy, rum, sherry, and cream.
How did it get it’s name?
The name “eggnog” likely has its origins in the drink’s ingredients. “Nog” may have been derived from “noggin,” a small wooden cup used to serve alcoholic beverages in colonial America. The “egg” part refers to the crucial ingredient that lends eggnog it’s rich, creamy texture.
Traditional eggnog consists of eggs, milk or cream, sugar, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Spirits like rum, brandy, or whiskey are often added to give it that warm, comforting kick. Over time, variations of eggnog emerged, including non-alcoholic versions for all to enjoy.
Bringing People Together
It’s popularity during the holiday season is a testament to its ability to bring people together. Whether served at festive family gatherings, office parties, or cosy evenings by the fire, it has become a symbol of togetherness and holiday merriment.
Today, you can find it in various forms, from store-bought cartons to homemade recipes that cater to different dietary preferences. It continues to evolve, with unique flavours and ingredients introduced each year to cater to diverse tastes. If you’re looking for something truly special this holiday season, explore Oxton Liqueurs gifts, where you might discover a delightful twist on this classic festive drink.
As you savour a glass during the holiday season, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and cultural significance behind this cherished Christmas cocktail. Its journey from medieval posset to George Washington’s recipe to today’s modern variations is a testament to the enduring tradition of celebrating togetherness, warmth, and joy during the most wonderful time of the year. So, raise your glass and toast to the history, a timeless symbol of Christmas’s ultimate cheer.
Eggnog Recipes
Here are five of our favourite holiday recipes, each with its own twist to add some variety to your holiday gatherings:
1. Classic Spiked
- For the traditionalists, this classic recipe balances rich creaminess with the warm kick of alcohol.
- Ingredients: 4 egg yolks, 1 cup sugar, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup brandy or rum, 1/2 cup bourbon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg.
- Instructions: Whisk the egg yolks and sugar until creamy. In a saucepan, heat milk, cream, and nutmeg until simmering, then slowly whisk into the egg mixture. Let cool, add alcohol, and chill for at least two hours. Serve with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
2. Vegan Coconut
- For a dairy free option, this coconut-based eggnog is creamy, subtly tropical, and equally festive.
- Ingredients: 1 can coconut milk, 1 cup almond milk, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, 1/2 tsp cinnamon.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into glasses, sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg, and enjoy chilled. For an extra kick, add a splash of dark rum.
3. Spiced Chai
- A warming blend of chai spices makes this eggnog perfect for cosy evenings.
- Ingredients: 4 egg yolks, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 chai tea bags, 1/4 tsp each cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, 1/2 cup bourbon.
- Instructions: Heat milk, cream, and tea bags in a saucepan over medium heat for 5 minutes, then remove the bags. Whisk egg yolks and sugar, add the warm spiced milk, and then chill. Add bourbon before serving and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
4. Espresso Latte
- For coffee lovers, this version combines the creamy richness of eggnog with the robust flavour of espresso.
- Ingredients: 1 cup prepared eggnog (store-bought or homemade), 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 shot espresso or strong coffee, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
- Instructions: Heat eggnog and milk in a saucepan, stirring in espresso and vanilla. Pour into a mug, froth if desired, and sprinkle with a touch of nutmeg.
5. Pumpkin Spice
- Add a seasonal twist with pumpkin purée and warm spices.
- Ingredients: 4 egg yolks, 1/3 cup sugar, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup pumpkin purée, 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice, 1/4 cup rum or brandy (optional).
- Instructions: Whisk egg yolks and sugar, then add milk, cream, and pumpkin purée. Heat on low until thickened, then chill. Add alcohol before serving and garnish with a dash of pumpkin spice.
