‘Tis the season for wintery holiday drinks and eggnog is at the top of the list! But, ever wonder what exactly eggnog is or where it came from? We uncover the story of how eggnog came to be a holiday must-have!
What is eggnog?
While the exact history is uncertain, most culinary historians agree that eggnog originated in England many centuries ago as a drink for the British aristocracy. Evolving from the word “grog” for rum, the name morphed into eggnog. Eggnog became popular in the United States in the 1700s.
A dairy-based drink made of milk, sugar, eggs, cream and spices, eggnog is thick in texture and big on taste. Many recipes include flavorings such as nutmeg, cloves or vanilla for a spicy edge. When purchased from the store, eggnog is typically a non-alcoholic beverage. However, many people choose to drink it spiked with rum, bourbon, whiskey or brandy. The whipped eggs give this drink a thick, frothy texture bursting with flavor and heaviness. While traditionally served cold, some people prefer a heated eggnog, particularly with a little rum!
Eggnog’s big taste also comes with a heavy dose of calories. According to Healthline, a 4-ounce serving of eggnog contains approximately 200 calories and 10 grams of fat (13% of the daily recommended amount). If you add brandy or rum, that’s another 65 calories per 1-ounce shot and many recipes call for twice that amount of alcohol. Therefore, a serving of eggnog with alcohol could ring in at around 330 calories! This is one drink you want to consume in moderation!
What else can I do with it?
Because eggnog is a heavy drink consumed in small quantities, some people have trouble finishing the whole container. Not to worry – we have lots of other ideas for your eggnog!
Eggnog makes an excellent latte or coffee creamer. Using an aerator, froth it into the perfect holiday coffee.
Eggnog also makes outstanding French toast. Prepare your holiday brunch with eggnog in lieu of milk and eggs and top with some cinnamon, whipped cream and powdered sugar for a winter feast!
Ever tried eggnog in your oatmeal? Use it instead of water and have a tasty, hearty treat!
Two words: Eggnog Cookies! The rich flavor of eggnog in cookie form? Yes, please!
Use eggnog instead of milk in other baking recipes such as pancake and waffle mix, muffins and biscuits. The flavor gives these traditional foods a wintery feel!
Create eggnog cream cheese frosting for your next batch of cupcakes! This frosting is particularly tasty on dark chocolate or vanilla cupcakes.
Give your healthy mashed sweet potatoes a flavor boost by stirring in some eggnog and granola or pecans.
Make an old-fashioned milkshake with eggnog, cinnamon, a scoop of vanilla ice cream and topped with a cherry.
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