Eggnog Beyond Christmas: Everything You Need To Know
Image Credit: Freepik

Eggnog is a sweet drink that is made with milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. It has been around for hundreds of years. It was originally made in Europe then later became popular in America. People traditionally serve it chilled and sometimes top it with things like whipped cream or cinnamon. Eggnog is rich, sweet and delicious. But the drink is mostly associated with the festive season, and especially festivals like Christmas. And yet, if you want to enjoy the drink beyond these festivals, read on. 

It is quite easy to make eggnog at home. First, you will need eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spices. Crack the eggs into a big bowl. Try to make sure no shells get in. Add the milk, cream, sugar, and spices too. Some good spices for eggnog are nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla. Now use a fork or whisk to mix it all up. Keep mixing until everything is combined nicely. The eggs, milk, and cream will get thick and creamy as you mix. Doesn't that look yummy?  

Image credit: Freepik

You can add some extras if you want. Bourbon, rum, or brandy give eggnog a fun flavour for adults. Or you can add chocolate or coffee for new flavours. Now your eggnog is ready to drink! Pour yourself a nice cold glass. Make sure to keep the rest chilled in the fridge. The eggs taste best when everything stays cold. Eggnog tastes so festive and delicious during the holidays. It's a special treat you can feel good about making yourself. The sweet custardy flavour is so yummy. And it's fun to share with family and friends. Whip up a batch for your next celebration! Making it yourself lets you control how sweet it is and adds your own twist. 

Eggnog without alcohol? Yes, it's possible!  

Making eggnog without alcohol can be tricky. You want all the yummy flavour without the booze, no worries. Instead of rum or brandy, use their extracts. These have way less alcohol but keep the tasty flavour. For the bourbon taste, stir in a combo of maple syrup and molasses. They mix to taste just like bourbon, minus the alcohol. Whip up a batch and see for yourself. 

Image credit: Freepik

How To Serve Eggnog? 

Eggnog can be served cold or warm, depending on the type of gathering. For cold eggnog, chill it in the fridge before drinking. For warm eggnog, gently heat it on the stove while stirring. Be careful not to let it get too hot. Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra flavour. Serve your eggnog in fun glasses or mugs. Add fun toppings like whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, or chocolate shavings. The cookies and eggnog go perfectly together! 

Image credit: Freepik

How Long Can The Homemade Eggnog Be Stored? 

If alcohol is added to the eggnog, it will last about one week in the fridge. The alcohol helps it stay good longer. But if eggnog is made without alcohol, drink it faster! Eggnog without alcohol only stays fresh for 3 or 4 days. So be sure to enjoy it within that time.   

What Can Be Done With Leftover Eggnog? 

Leftover eggnog presents a delicious opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. This rich and creamy beverage can be transformed into a variety of decadent treats. Consider making fluffy eggnog pancakes for a weekend brunch. Simply combine eggnog with your favourite pancake mix and watch the kids' faces light up with joy when you serve them. Eggnog also shines when baked into a bread pudding, infusing each bite with holiday spice. For breakfast, use eggnog instead of milk to give French toast a luxurious and velvety texture. Or add a splash to your morning coffee for a cozy, comforting latte. With a little imagination, leftover eggnog can become something new to savour.  

Image credit: Freepik

Guest Allergies! Be Careful About It While Serving Eggnog. 

Eggnog might cause problems for some people. It has milk, eggs, and sometimes nuts. If the guests are allergic to it, eggnog is not a good idea to serve. Before serving eggnog, ask your guests if they have any food allergies. If not, offer other drinks, like juice or water. There are lots of tasty options so all your guests can celebrate! 

Eggnog Too Thick/Thin. Here Is How It Can Be Fixed. 

Oh, eggnog too thick or thin? No problem! It can be fixed easily.  

If the eggnog is thick, add more milk and cream. The more you add, the thinner it gets.  

If the eggnog is thin, mix cornstarch with cold milk first. Start with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Stir it up good. Then slowly mix the eggnog on the stove. Keep stirring while it heats. It'll thicken up nicely.