Eggnog is a creamy and dairy-based beverage that is traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season, particularly in North America. It’s typically available from October until year end encompassing both Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Having worked in a milk processing and packaging for 6 years as a teenager, the holiday season always meant a sudden ramp up of eggnog production. This popular drink is mass-produced for about 3 months each year from around the time autumn hits until New Year’s Eve at which time production ceases for another year.
It can be a somewhat labor-intensive process with a liquid eggnog base pumped into a tank filled with milk along with bags of sugar added for sweetness. Once this concentrate is mixed it is typically pumped into a larger tank with more milk, mixed and then packaged.
One of the main components that gives eggnog its taste is the spices. While nutmeg and cinnamon are commonly featured, you might be surprised at the other spices commonly used, which we’ll discuss below.
Eggnog’s Unique Taste Comes From Several Main Spices
Eggnog typically includes a combination of spices that contribute to its rich and warming flavor. The most common spices found in eggnog are:
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg is perhaps the most iconic spice in eggnog. It’s usually freshly grated on top of the drink just before serving, imparting a warm, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a sweet and aromatic dimension to eggnog. It complements the other spices and enhances the overall taste.
- Allspice: Ground allspice provides a hint of warmth and depth, with flavors reminiscent of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cloves: Cloves are used sparingly due to their strong and intense flavor. They contribute a spicy and aromatic note to the eggnog.
- Vanilla: While not a spice, vanilla extract is often included in eggnog recipes for its sweet and floral flavor, which complements the spices.
These spices, when combined with eggs, cream, sugar, and sometimes a splash of rum or brandy, create the delightful and comforting flavor profile of eggnog, making it a favorite during the holiday season.
How Is Commercial Eggnog Made?
Eggnog is made in large batches to meet seasonal demand each year and is typically packaged by dairy manufacturers in 1 quart or 1 L paper cartons.
Eggnog is made by combining several key ingredients, including:
- Eggs: Eggnog gets its name from eggs, which are a primary ingredient. Egg yolks give the drink its rich and creamy texture.
- Dairy: Typically, eggnog contains a combination of milk and heavy cream, which adds richness and thickness to the beverage.
- Sweetener: Sugar is used to sweeten eggnog, balancing the richness of the eggs and dairy.
- Spices: Eggnog is flavored with a blend of warm spices, such as nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. These spices give eggnog its characteristic holiday flavor.
- Optional Spirits: Many eggnog recipes include a splash of alcoholic spirits, such as rum, brandy, whiskey, or bourbon. This is optional and can be adjusted to personal preference. While eggnog is typically consumed as is, simply poured from a carton, some like to add alcohol to bump up the taste.
The egg and spices base is typically a liquid that is added together to the milk and sugar into a tank of milk. The concentrated product is mixed and then added to a larger holding tank and mixed again with more milk before being packaged for sale.
Eggnog is a beloved holiday tradition and is commonly enjoyed at festive gatherings, parties, and celebrations throughout the winter season. It’s known for its rich, creamy texture and the warm, comforting flavors of the spices used.
Several Types Of Eggnog Are Commercially Produced
Back in the day, there was typically one type of eggnog commercially produced: A thick, high calorie milk-based drink and that was that. These days, many lower calorie and lower fat options are produced in addition to non-dairy options to cater to different dietary preferences and needs.
Here are some common types of eggnog and a table comparing their caloric values per serving:
1. Traditional Eggnog: This is the classic, full-fat version of eggnog, typically made with whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. It’s often spiked with rum, brandy, or bourbon by consumers at home or simply consumed straight.
2. Low-Fat Eggnog: For those looking to reduce their calorie and fat intake, low-fat eggnog is an option. It usually replaces some or all of the whole milk and cream with low-fat or skim milk, reducing the fat content.
3. Dairy-Free Eggnog: This version of eggnog is suitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or prefer dairy-free options. It’s made with plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk, sweetened with sugar or a sugar substitute, and flavored with spices.
4. Light or Reduced-Calorie Eggnog: Light eggnog is designed for those who want to enjoy eggnog with fewer calories. It often contains less sugar and reduced fat content compared to traditional eggnog.
5. Sugar-Free Eggnog: Sugar-free eggnog is sweetened with sugar substitutes like sucralose or stevia. It’s a suitable choice for individuals who need to limit their sugar intake.
Eggnog Caloric Values By Type
Here’s a table comparing the approximate caloric values of these eggnog variations per 8-ounce (240 ml) serving:
| Type of Eggnog | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|
| Traditional Eggnog | 320-350 calories |
| Low-Fat Eggnog | 140-170 calories |
| Dairy-Free Eggnog | 90-120 calories |
| Light Eggnog | 150-180 calories |
| Sugar-Free Eggnog | 50-60 calories |
Please note that these calorie counts are approximate and can vary depending on the brand and specific recipe used. Additionally, the caloric values may change if alcohol is added to the eggnog. Be sure to check product labels or recipes for accurate nutritional information.
How To Make Eggnog At Home
Making homemade eggnog is a delightful holiday tradition that allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Here’s a basic recipe for classic homemade eggnog:
Ingredients:
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup to 1 cup rum, brandy, bourbon, or a combination (adjust to taste)
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thick. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves (if using), and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture until it’s steaming but not boiling. Remove it from the heat.
- Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of the spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and your choice of rum, brandy, bourbon, or a combination. Adjust the amount to your taste. You can start with 3/4 cup and add more if desired.
- Strain the eggnog through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl or pitcher to remove any cooked egg bits and spices.
- Cover the eggnog and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the eggnog to chill thoroughly.
- Before serving, give the eggnog a good stir. Pour it into glasses, top with a dollop of whipped cream, and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
You can also adjust the sweetness and spices according to your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of spirits or make a non-alcoholic version for everyone to enjoy.
The benefit of making your own eggnog is that you make it exactly how you like and whenever you want.
The downside is that it’s quite labor intensive and ingredient intensive, as you can see.
Regional Differences In Eggnog Offer Unique Taste Twists
There are both regional and national variations of eggnog that incorporate different spices and flavorings. Here are a few examples for you to consider to try for yourself:
- Southern-style eggnog: In the Southern United States, eggnog often includes bourbon or whiskey as a prominent flavoring. Spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon are still commonly used, but the addition of alcohol adds a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- Mexican-style eggnog (Rompope): Rompope is a traditional Mexican eggnog that includes flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, and sometimes almonds. It is typically made with rum and can have a thicker consistency than traditional eggnog.
- Puerto Rican-style eggnog (Coquito): Coquito is a Puerto Rican version of eggnog that is typically made with coconut milk, condensed milk, and rum. It is flavored with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, as well as vanilla extract. The addition of coconut gives it a distinct tropical twist.
- Caribbean-style eggnog: In the Caribbean, eggnog variations may include spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and sometimes ginger. Rum is a common addition, reflecting the region’s rum-producing heritage.
- European-style eggnog: In some European countries, eggnog variations may incorporate different spices or flavorings. For example, German “Eierpunsch” often includes spices like cloves and vanilla, while Swedish “Ägglikör” can include cardamom.
These regional variations highlight the diversity of ingredients and spices used in eggnog recipes around the world. The choice of spices can vary based on cultural traditions, local ingredients, and personal preferences. Exploring these variations can be a great way to experience the unique flavors of different regions.
How Eggnog Is Served And Celebrated Around The World
While the specific rituals and customs associated with drinking eggnog can vary, here are some notable traditions and customs related to eggnog in different countries:
- United States and Canada: In North America, it is common to serve eggnog at holiday parties and gatherings. Eggnog is often enjoyed in small cups or mugs, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Some households may have a special eggnog recipe that has been passed down through generations. It is also customary to toast or raise a glass of eggnog to celebrate the holiday season and offer good wishes to friends and family.
- United Kingdom: In the UK, eggnog is traditionally served at Christmas and is often enjoyed in a communal bowl or punch bowl. Family members and guests gather around the bowl to ladle out servings of eggnog into cups or glasses. The eggnog may be garnished with grated nutmeg, and sometimes a small cinnamon stick is placed in the bowl for additional flavor.
- Germany: In Germany, Eierpunsch is often served at Christmas markets and festive events. It is enjoyed while strolling through the market, savoring the flavors and taking in the holiday ambiance. The warm and spiced drink provides a comforting respite from the chilly weather, and it is a customary part of the overall Christmas market experience.
- Mexico: In Mexico, Rompope is often served in small glasses or cups during Christmas gatherings. It is typically enjoyed with family and friends after a festive meal. Rompope can be served chilled or over ice, and it is sometimes garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.
- Denmark and Sweden: In Denmark and Sweden, Æggepunch and Ägglikör are often served warm in small cups or glasses during the Christmas season. They are enjoyed as a cozy and comforting drink, often accompanied by traditional holiday treats such as gingerbread cookies or saffron buns. These drinks are savored slowly, allowing the warmth and flavors to be fully appreciated.
These customs and rituals associated with eggnog highlight its role as a festive and communal beverage during the holiday season. Eggnog is often enjoyed in the company of loved ones, creating a sense of warmth, togetherness, and celebration. Sharing a cup of eggnog has become a cherished tradition in many households and is an opportunity to connect with family, friends, and the holiday spirit.