Bring in the Holiday Cheer: It’s National Eggnog Month (plus 5 recipes!)

Did you know that American’s consume more than 135 million pounds of eggnog each year? That’s right! The thick, spiced egg and milk drink has been enjoyed by the masses since the 13th century and has now become everyone’s holiday drink of choice. What better way to celebrate the festive month of December than with a glass of eggnog? All December long, pour yourself a glass because it’s National Eggnog Month!

What is Eggnog?

Eggnog is a rich, creamy, and sweetened dairy-based beverage that is traditionally made with milk, cream, sugar, whipped eggs. It can even be spiced up with spirits like brandy, rum, or bourbon. For a more non-traditional route, eggnog can be prepared with low-fat milk, fat free milk, soy products, or other alternative milk like oat milk, almond milk, or rice milk.

Cooking Eggnog at Home

Making eggnog from home is easy and something the whole family can enjoy making together! However, if you choose to make your eggnog from home this holiday season it’s important to keep in mind some food safety tips! Since eggs are the starring ingredient in this beverage, keep the 3 C’s in mind: Combine, Chill, and Cook!

Combine. Combine pasteurized eggs and half the milk, or milk alternative, as indicated in the recipe. Other ingredients such as sugar may be added at this step as well.

Cook. Cook the mixture gently to an internal temperature of 160°F while stirring constantly. Cooking the mixture at this temperature will destroy any bacteria that might be present.

Chill. After cooking, chill the mixture before adding the rest of the milk and other ingredients. Keep the eggnog stored in the refrigerator at 40°F or lower for up to 3 days- after this time has passed, throw it out!

5 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Eggnog

After the holidays are over and you’re stuck with leftover eggnog- what do you do with it? Believe it or not, eggnog is a versatile beverage and can be used in several ways outside of just drinking it.

Here are 5 best uses for eggnog, besides drinking it:

Eggnog Oatmeal: Spice up your plain old-fashioned rolled oats with eggnog! Simply replace the water you traditionally use in your oatmeal with warmed eggnog.
Eggnog Ice Cubes: Seems simple right? Pour your leftover eggnog into an ice cube tray and freeze overnight. Once fully frozen, use the eggnog ice cubes in a smoothie, pour-over iced coffee, or even make a root beer float!
Eggnog Biscuits: This is the trick for tender, buttery biscuits with a touch of extra sweetness. Replace the heavy cream or milk usually found in a biscuit recipe with eggnog!
Eggnog Rice Pudding or Risotto: For rice pudding, in place of stock use eggnog for an unexpected twist. Or toward the end of your favorite risotto recipe, add in a ladleful of eggnog for a thick, rich, and creamy dessert.
Eggnog French Toast: Elevate your traditional French toast by using your leftover eggnog! Instead of using eggs, dunk sliced challah bread, or other bread of choice, into the eggnog and cook until golden brown. Serve with berries and syrup for a great brunch dish!

During December, however you choose to indulge in this delicious holiday treat- be sure it is safe! When in doubt, remember the 3 C’s to guarantee food safety. Now, pour a glass of eggnog and cheers to a happy holiday!

Your Turn To Take Action: What is your favorite eggnog recipe that you will be trying this December? Let me know in the comments below.