Aged Eggnog Recipe | Classic Eggnog Recipe | Alton Brown (2024)

A winter holiday classic eggnog recipe, Alton Brown's aged eggnog blends rum, bourbon, and cognac with dairy and nutmeg for a complex Christmas co*cktail.

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Course: Drinks

Keyword: Christmas, co*cktails, Eggs, Holidays, Rum

ACTIVE TIME: 15 minutes minutes

TOTAL TIME: 14 days days 15 minutes minutes

Yield: 8 to 10 servings

Although most Americans think of eggnog as something they get out of a milk carton during the two-week period leading up to December 25, eggnog actually descends from sack posset, a strong, thick English beverage built upon eggs, milk, and either a fortified wine (like Madeira) or ale.

Add depth and complexity to this classic Christmas co*cktail by using a mix of spirits and allowing it to age.

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  • 12 large eggs, pasteurized if you need peace of mind
  • 1 pound sugar
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 pint half-and-half
  • 1 pint whole milk
  • 1 pint heavy cream
  • 1 cup Jamaican rum
  • 1 cup cognac
  • 1 cup bourbon
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Aged Eggnog Recipe | Classic Eggnog Recipe | Alton Brown (2)

ACTIVE TIME: 15 minutes minutes

TOTAL TIME: 14 days days 15 minutes minutes

Yield: 8 to 10 servings

Procedure

  • Separate the eggs and store the whites for another application.

  • Beat the yolks with the sugar and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl until the mixture lightens in color and falls off the whisk in a solid ribbon.

  • Combine dairy, booze, and salt in a second bowl or pitcher and then slowly beat into the egg mixture.

  • Move to a large glass jar (or a couple of smaller ones) and store in the fridge for a minimum of 2 weeks. A month would be better, and 2 better still. In fact, there’s nothing that says you couldn’t age it a year, but I’ve just never been able to wait that long. And yes, you can also drink it right away.

  • Serve in mugs or cups topped with a little extra nutmeg grated on top.

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Aged Eggnog Recipe | Classic Eggnog Recipe | Alton Brown (3)

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FAQs

How long does it take to age alton brown eggnog? ›

Move to a large glass jar (or a couple of smaller ones) and store in the fridge for a minimum of 2 weeks. A month would be better, and 2 better still. In fact, there's nothing that says you couldn't age it a year, but I've just never been able to wait that long. And yes, you can also drink it right away.

How long can you age homemade eggnog? ›

Yes, when the alcohol content is 20% of the egg and sugar mixture, it becomes sterile and can sit in cool storage on a shelf for up to a year. Usually, I use the egg base and make my eggnog before the three-week mark (you can make it up to a year in advance!).

What happens when you age eggnog? ›

While fresh eggnog is simple, smooth, and, well, fresh-tasting, aged eggnog is much more aggressive. The booze comes out stronger, and there are medicinal, almost minty flavors that people will pick up on—almost as if you've spiked your eggnog with an herbal liqueur, like Fernet-Branca.

Why is aged eggnog better? ›

The idea? Make a batch of eggnog and let it age for at least three weeks in the refrigerator before drinking. The rest period supposedly drives off eggy taste while giving the other flavors a chance to meld. At the same time, the alcohol has a chance to kill any potential pathogens in the mix.

Does alcohol make eggnog last longer? ›

Classically, eggnog is also aged with liquor for several weeks (or months!), which sounds insane until you realize that the booze acts as both preservative and sterilizer. Very few bacteria, including salmonella, can survive in the presence of alcohol, as has been proven in lab experiments at Rockefeller University.

How long can you keep homemade eggnog in the refrigerator? ›

The Food and Drug Administration suggests consuming commercial eggnog within three to five days of opening a carton, and you should drink homemade eggnog within two to four days of making. If you're unsure whether eggnog has gone off, give it a whiff, and check for these signs: lumpy texture. spoiled milk smell.

Is eggnog safe for 1 year old? ›

When can babies have eggnog? After 12 months of age, if the eggnog is pasteurized and free of alcohol. While we generally recommend waiting until age 2 to introduce sugar into a toddler's diet, a small taste of pasteurized, alcohol-free eggnog on a special occasion after a child's first birthday is just fine.

Does alcohol sterilize eggnog? ›

Once alcohol is diluted, it no longer effectively kills bacteria. You will still need to use pasteurized eggs. Keep in mind that simmering eggnog over heat will remove the alcohol. Holidays are a fun but hectic time.

Is it normal for homemade eggnog to separate? ›

This early separation sets the stage for the rest of the preparation process, helping you to focus on achieving the perfect balance and texture for your delicious, seasonal eggnog.

How to store aged eggnog? ›

Seal and store in fridge. You can enjoy right away or let it “age” for weeks or even months. The longer it sits, the better it gets. Before serving, make sure to shake contents for any settling that has occurred.

What is in Evan Williams egg nog? ›

Evan Williams Egg Nog

Our Original Southern Egg Nog is made with smooth Kentucky Bourbon and real dairy cream.

Can you get eggnog any time of the year? ›

Eggnog can be all year or all season: your choice!

Despite being a food associated with Christmas and New Years, eggnog is something that you can enjoy all year long.

What makes eggnog unhealthy? ›

“While there are different eggnog recipes, most eggnog will typically contain high amounts of fat from cream and milk, and added sugar for sweetness,” said Cohn. The American Heart Association recommends that people consume no more than 5% to 6% of calories from saturated fat every day to support heart health.

Does homemade eggnog taste better than store-bought? ›

You wont believe how easy and DELICIOUS homemade Eggnog is, and this recipe really is the best! Thick and creamy with the perfect mild flavor and hint of nutmeg. You'll never buy store-bought eggnog again!

Why you should be careful with that eggnog? ›

Eggs must be cooked to 160 degrees F to kill bacteria such as Salmonella that may be present. If your eggnog recipe calls for raw eggs, it may not be safe. Adding alcohol inhibits bacterial growth, but it cannot be relied upon to kill bacteria.

Does old Tom's egg nog expire? ›

If stored correctly, eggnog liqueur should keep for several months after it is opened. To preserve its quality, it must be kept firmly sealed and chilled. Look for any special instructions from the manufacturer on the label, and pay attention to any changes in flavour or smell since these may be signs of spoiling.

How long is egg nog season? ›

Throughout Canada, the United States and some European countries, eggnog is traditionally consumed over the Christmas season, from late October until the end of the holiday season.

How old is eggnog? ›

While culinary historians debate its exact lineage, most agree eggnog originated from the early medieval Britain “posset,” a hot, milky, ale-like drink. By the 13th century, monks were known to drink a posset with eggs and figs.

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