How to Make Early American Eggnog - A Step-by-Step Guide

Early American Eggnog is a traditional holiday beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. This rich and creamy drink is typically made with milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and spirits such as rum or brandy. The origins of eggnog can be traced back to the 18th century in colonial America, where it was a popular indulgence during the holiday season.

The ingredients used in Early American Eggnog reflect the agricultural bounty of the early American colonies. Milk and eggs were readily avail...

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup brandy
  • ½ cup sherry wine
  • ½ cup Jamaican rum
  • ½ cup whiskey
  • 12 eggs, separated
  • ¾ cup white sugar
  • 1 quart whole milk
  • 1 quart heavy cream
  • 1 quart vanilla ice cream, for serving
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ground nutmeg, for garnish

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Additional Time: 5 days
  • Total Time: 5 days 1 hr
  • Servings: 27
  • Yield: 27 servings

  • Pour the brandy, sherry, rum, and whiskey into a bowl.
  • Place the egg yolks and egg whites into two separate, large mixing bowls. Set the egg whites aside. Beat the egg yolks until light and frothy. Gradually beat in the sugar until the egg mixture is light colored. Slowly beat in the liquor mixture. With the mixer still running, pour in the milk and heavy cream until thoroughly blended.
  • Using a clean beater, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the milk mixture. Pour into two clean, gallon-size plastic milk containers. Refrigerate at least 5 days, or 10 days for an even smoother taste. Shake the container occasionally to keep the alcohol from separating.
  • To serve, pour the eggnog into a punch bowl. Whisk to blend milk mixture, add the quart of vanilla ice cream, and garnish with nutmeg.