We usually write about shoes, but the holidays call for a detour from the dance floor to the dining room. Here are five simple ways to serve eggnog, from a quiet glass after dinner to a treat for a holiday party.
These ideas are ways to serve eggnog you have already bought or prepared. Use a non-alcoholic prepared eggnog as the base for every idea except the bourbon variation, which is for adults only. They are not a recipe for making eggnog from raw eggs. Follow the storage and heating instructions on the carton you buy. If you make eggnog at home, the FDA's holiday food safety tips recommend using pasteurized eggs, and leftovers belong back in the refrigerator promptly.
1. Chilled and Classic
There's something about a simple glass of chilled eggnog that embodies the holiday spirit. It's the most traditional way to enjoy it. Serving it cold brings out its thick, velvety texture, making it a lovely after-dinner treat to sip slowly. Pour it straight from the fridge into a festive glass and, if you like, grate a little fresh nutmeg on top.
Best for: a quiet evening, dessert, or guests of any age.
2. Eggnog Latte for Cozy Mornings
Why wait for a coffee shop run when you can make an eggnog latte at home? Use eggnog in place of some or all of the milk in your usual latte for a rich holiday twist. It's a smart way to use up leftover eggnog. Top it with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a frothy start to the day.
Best for: holiday mornings and brunch.
3. A Toast with Bourbon Eggnog
Eggnog and bourbon are a classic pairing for adults. Mix non-alcoholic prepared eggnog with a measure of bourbon and serve it in a punch bowl or small glasses for a festive cocktail. The warm notes of the bourbon balance the sweetness of the eggnog.
Best for: adult holiday gatherings. Keep a non-alcoholic pitcher alongside for guests who don't drink, and label which is which.
4. Hot Chocolate with Eggnog
Stir a splash of eggnog into a mug of hot chocolate for an extra creamy, lightly spiced drink. Warm it gently according to the eggnog carton's directions rather than boiling it, then top with whipped cream or a dusting of nutmeg.
Best for: cold nights, sledding afternoons, and family movie nights.
5. Eggnog Ice-Cream Float
For a dessert that feels like a party, place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a tall glass and pour chilled eggnog over it. A pinch of cinnamon on top finishes it. Make floats as guests are ready for them, then return the carton to the refrigerator.
Best for: dessert tables and holiday parties with kids.
Choosing the Right Serving for Your Occasion
| Occasion | Try |
|---|---|
| Quiet evening at home | Chilled and classic |
| Holiday brunch | Eggnog latte |
| Adult cocktail party | Bourbon eggnog, with a non-alcoholic option |
| Cold-weather family night | Hot chocolate with eggnog |
| Dessert table | Eggnog ice-cream float |
Whichever you choose, keep eggnog cold until serving and refrigerate it promptly afterward, following the carton's instructions. Happy holidays!
