The Christmas Tradition of Eggnog: Its History and Heritage

Eggnog has been a Christmas staple for centuries, its rich and creamy texture and festive spices evoking warmth and cheer. From humble beginnings as a medieval English drink to its modern-day role as a Christmas classic, eggnog’s history is as rich as its flavor.

The Origins of Eggnog

Eggnog’s roots can be traced back to “posset,” a hot, milky ale drink popular in medieval England. Posset was often spiced and consumed to ward off the cold or as a luxurious treat for the upper class. In the 17th century, eggs were added to the mix, creating what we now recognize as eggnog.

The drink crossed the Atlantic with European settlers, where it gained popularity in colonial America. With access to fresh eggs, milk, and rum from the Caribbean, Americans adopted eggnog as a celebratory drink. The term “nog” likely stems from “noggin,” a Middle English word for a small wooden cup.

By the 18th century, eggnog had cemented its place as a holiday favorite, especially in the South, where families gathered around bowls of homemade eggnog at Christmastime. George Washington was even known to have his own boozy recipe for eggnog, which included rum, sherry, and whiskey.

Eggnog in Holiday Tradition

Eggnog became synonymous with Christmas in the United States during the 19th century. Its richness and indulgence made it a perfect celebratory drink for special occasions. Carolers, families, and friends often toasted to the holiday season with a cup of eggnog.

The drink also became a symbol of generosity and hospitality. Families would prepare large batches and share with neighbors or guests, making eggnog an essential part of Christmas gatherings. Its association with warmth and togetherness is why it continues to be a festive favorite today.

Must-Try Eggnog Recipes

Whether you prefer classic eggnog or a modern spin, these recipes are sure to add festive cheer to your holiday gatherings. Start a new family tradition by making your own—pick a recipe and make it uniquely yours!

Classic Homemade Eggnog

Enjoy the creamy, festive flavor of traditional eggnog without the alcohol. Perfect for family gatherings and kid-friendly celebrations!

Ingredients:

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
  • Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, with a light yellow color.
  2. Heat the Milk and Cream: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling (look for small bubbles around the edges).
  3. Temper the Eggs: Slowly add a small ladle of the warm milk mixture to the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Gradually add the rest of the milk mixture, continuing to whisk.
  4. Thicken the Eggnog: Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the eggnog thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
  5. Add Flavoring: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon (if using).
  6. Chill and Serve: Transfer the eggnog to a bowl or pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill. Serve cold, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Tips for the Best Eggnog: For extra frothiness, whip some additional heavy cream and fold it into the eggnog before serving. Use freshly grated nutmeg for the best flavor.

Dairy-Free Coconut Eggnog

Ingredients:

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/2 cup spiced rum (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of ground cloves

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, whisk egg yolks and sugar until blended.
  2. Slowly add coconut milk and almond milk, stirring constantly over medium heat.
  3. Heat the mixture until it thickens slightly but doesn’t boil.
  4. Remove from heat and add vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, and rum (if using).
  5. Chill before serving, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

President George Washington’s Eggnog

Ingredients:

  • 1 pint brandy
  • 1/2 pint rye whiskey
  • 1/2 pint Jamaican rum
  • 1/4 pint sherry
  • 12 eggs
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 quart cream
  • 1 quart milk

Instructions:

  1.  Mix liquors together first. The total amount of liquor here is 38oz, about the equivalent of 19 cocktails.
  2. Separate yolks and whites of eggs. Add sugar to beaten yolks and mix well.
  3. Add liquor to beaten yolks, drop by drop first, and slowly beat.
  4. Add cream and milk, slowly beating. You’ll notice there is a lot of slow beating here. That’s because you don’t want to turn it into whipped cream, and you don’t want to agitate the egg yellows too much. Keep them nice and raw.
  5. Beat whites of eggs until stiff and fold slowly into mixture.I did this by hand, just like George Washington would have, and it took forever. At least 7 minutes with breaks in between. Finally got it stiff peaks, but it wasn’t stable because the recipe didn’t call for cream of tartar, sugar, lemon, vinegar — nothing. Nothing to keep the egg whites stabilized. So it turned slightly foamy, like egg soap.
  6. Let set in a cool place for several days; taste frequently.
*President George Washington’s Eggnog Recipe Source: Cooking with Congress

Eggnog is more than just a drink; it’s a vessel of history, tradition, and togetherness. 

So this Christmas, raise your cup to the traditions of the past and the memories you’re creating today. Merry Christmas!