Eggnog is typically a beverage I don’t make or buy until it’s cold outside and the year starts to wind down. However, when I do purchase eggnog (or make homemade eggnog), I enjoy making creative eggnog cocktail recipes that are easy and fun for our friends to enjoy.
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What Does Eggnog Taste Like?
Eggnog has a unique flavor that’s hard to explain. The taste of eggnog can best be described as a rich, creamy custard or melted vanilla ice cream. Eggnog is very easy to make at home by combining simple ingredients such as heavy cream, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract and nutmeg. However in this recipe, I am going to show you the best alcohols to pair with eggnog so you can enjoy a tasty, easy cocktail from store-bought eggnog.
The Best Alcohol To Pair With Eggnog
Eggnog pairs with a variety of different spirits, most of which may already exist in your home. Brandy is the most traditional spirit to pair with eggnog, but there are other liquors that pair well with the nutmeg spices in eggnog. Some of my favorites to create a good spiked eggnog recipe are:
- Bourbon
- Brandy
- Cognac
- Crown Royal Vanilla
- Dark Rum
- Disaronno Liqueur
- Irish Cream Liqueur (Baileys is my favorite)
- Vanilla Vodka
- Vodka
How to Make Homemade Eggnog
If you have some time on your hands, I recommend making your eggnog from scratch and pairing it with your favorite alcohol in order to create the ultimate spiked eggnog recipe. You can also learn how to make homemade eggnog on my site as well. If you’re lactose intolerant, try my dairy-free eggnog recipe.
Flavor Pairings For This Spiked Eggnog Recipe
For this eggnog with alcohol recipe, I decided to use Disaronno since it is an almond-flavored liqueur. Almond flavored liqueur pairs beautifully with vanilla. So as a compliment to the Disaronno, I chose a vanilla vodka, shaken over ice with nutmeg to brighten the flavors. If you plan on making a large batch of this recipe, I would follow a 2 parts liquor, 4 parts eggnog ratio.
Spiked Eggnog FAQ:
How much alcohol should I add to eggnog?
A good starting point is ½ to 1 cup of alcohol per quart of eggnog, depending on how strong you like it. Start small, taste as you go, and adjust to your preference.
Can I make eggnog without alcohol?
Yes! Simply leave out the alcohol or substitute with rum extract. The recipe will still turn out creamy and delicious. It’s perfect for kids, non-drinkers, and holiday gatherings. Here is our family's Homemade Eggnog Recipe for reference.
Can I add alcohol after the eggnog is already made?
Absolutely. If you’re serving a crowd, make the base first and let guests customize their own glass with their preferred spirit
When should I add the alcohol?
If you want a smoother, mellower flavor, whisk the alcohol into the warm mixture right before chilling. If you want a sharper, stronger taste, stir it in just before serving.
How do I make my eggnog thicker?
If you prefer a thicker texture, simmer the mixture slightly longer to let it naturally reduce, or add an extra egg yolk. Alcohol will thin it slightly, so adjust as needed.
Can I make a big batch of spiked eggnog ahead of time?
Yes! Eggnog tastes even better after the flavors have time to meld. You can prepare it 24 hours in advance, store it in an airtight pitcher or container, and stir again before serving.
Eggnog Cocktail Recipe:
The Best Eggnog Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 oz Vanilla Vodka
- 1 oz Disaronno Liqueur
- 4 oz Eggnog
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
- Cinnamon & Sugar Mixture
- Ice
Instructions
- Take a cocktail glass, rim the glass with eggnog, then rim the glass with a cinnamon sugar mixture. Set glass aside.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, add 1 oz of vanilla vodka, 1 oz of Disaronno liqueur. Shake store bought eggnog and then add 4 oz of eggnog to cocktail shaker. Add 1/4 tsp of nutmeg or freshly grated nutmeg to bring out the flavors of the cocktail. Shake with ice for 20 seconds.
- Serve strained in cinnamon sugar rimmed cocktail glass, such as a martini glass, coupe glass or over ice in a rocks glass. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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This sounds delicious, festive and creamy in all the best ways. Definitely saving this for my holiday gatherings!
Nice twist on the eggnog drink. The mix of vanilla vodka and nutmeg brings a fun flavor twist to the classic.
I love eggnog. I’ll try this recipe for the Holidays. It’s so perfect and easy to do.
This looks like a great Holiday drink. I don’t drink but my oldest children do when they entertain, I will surely share this recipe with them
This cocktail was fantastic! I’m so happy it’s eggnog season again, and making it boozy is even better!
Egg nog os always a banger this time of year. But eggnog and Rum is a complete mystery to me. I’m so curious to try it.
Egg nog is a holiday favorite but eggnog and Rum is a complete mystery to me. I’m so curious to try it.