Is there anything more polarizing than eggnog in December? Most people fall on either side of the spectrum when it comes to the classic holiday beverage. Whatever you love it or leave it, there’s no denying eggnog is rooted in our collective history on both sides of the pond. The earliest drinkers were the early medieval British, who called the warm milky ale a posset; it was coined eggnog several centuries later after making its way to the American colonies. Even George Washington shared his very own recipe! 

Eggnog fans are a vocal bunch and say detractors have simply never had the real thing, having been turned off by the taste of the cartoned, grocery store variety. So, for National Eggnog Day, and in the spirit of the holiday season, let’s dive into some homemade variations and treats inspired by this festive drink!

Traditional (Boozy) Eggnog

📷: Food & Wine

Alcohol has been a main ingredient for centuries, cheers to that! The British used sherry, while the American colonies’ proximity to Caribbean islands made rum the more economical choice. Hold onto your hat, because this recipe uses three: brandy, rum, and bourbon-and will no doubt warm you up on a cold winter’s night. Recipe HERE. 

Non-Alcoholic Eggnog

📷: House of Nash Eats

Whip up a yummy batch the kids can enjoy without all that extra sugar from store bought versions! This version also uses cooked egg whites for extra peace of mind. Get the recipe HERE. 

Vegan Eggnog

📷: Minimalist Baker

A combination of nut milk and coconut milk is nuanced and creamy, and a splash of maple syrup and spices round everything out in the best way. Serve with or without bourbon. Recipe HERE. 

Eggnog Cheesecake

📷: Life Love and Sugar

This eggnog cheesecake will have your taste buds fa-la-la-la-laing at first creamy bite! Because what could possibly be better than adding cream cheese, sugar, and whipped cream to a milk-based dessert beverage? Don’t forget your stretchy pants with this one. Recipe HERE. 

Eggnog Latte

📷: A Sweet Pea Chef

Control the flavors and calorie count in this better-than-Starbucks version! Go ahead, add a bit of bourbon or rum, your secret’s safe with us. Recipe HERE. 

Eggnog Cookies

📷: Cooking Classy

These melt-in-your-mouth cookies have that wonderful soft crumb and will be the star of the show at your next holiday gathering! Recipe HERE. 

Eggnog French Toast

📷: Delish

The flavors of eggnog are a natural for breakfast - milk, eggs, nutmeg, cinnamon - so it’s only fitting to whip them up into yummy French toast. Even better, you can make it ahead and pop it in the oven on Christmas morning. Recipe HERE. 

Eggnog Truffles

📷: Woman’s Day

All the warm and cozy taste of eggnog in a bite-sized confection! Serve them up at your next holiday party, or wrap ‘em up for teacher and neighbor gifts. Recipe HERE. 

Are you an eggnog fan? Share your favorite eggnog or eggnog-inspired recipe with us! #MountainHouseCA