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Home - World Recipes - Classic Eggnog Recipe: 5‑Star Festive Favorite (Serves 8–10)

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Classic Eggnog Recipe: The Ultimate Holiday Drink

There’s something magical about the moment eggnog appears on the holiday table — a signal that the season of sparkle, comfort, and togetherness has truly begun. This creamy festive drink has a way of gathering people, inviting slow sips, shared stories, and that unmistakable feeling of celebration. Whether you’re reviving a family ritual or discovering eggnog for the first time, this classic recipe brings the spirit of the holidays straight into your home.

A Timeless Holiday Treat

Eggnog, synonymous with warmth and festivity, embodies a cherished legacy ingrained in holiday celebrations. Its origins steeped in history have woven tales of indulgence and conviviality.

The story behind eggnog traces back centuries, with origins believed entwined in medieval Europe. This creamy libation evolved from posset, a hot, milky, ale-like drink enjoyed by English aristocrats. Rumored to have been cherished by British monks as a potent concoction, eggnog became a symbol of prosperity and mirth.

In time, Americans have embraced and personalized the recipe, making it a quintessential part of their holiday festivities.

Today, it’s a beloved recipe around the world and is enjoyed mostly over Christmas time.

Eggnog Recipe, the Gordon Ramsay way

Since it’s unlikely that we’ll be spending Christmas with Gordon (how fabulous would THAT be, right!?), we’re sharing this cocktail following Gordon Ramsay’s recommended ingredients, perfect for serving 8 to 10 drinks.

Ingredients

700ml whole milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1½ tbsp ground ginger
1½ tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground cloves
5 egg yolks, plus 3 egg whites
230g caster sugar
4 tbsp rum, brandy or cognac (optional)
350ml double cream
Whole nutmeg and cinnamon sticks, to serve

Instructions

Combine milk, vanilla extract, and ground spices in a large saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from the heat and let it infuse for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks with 200g caster sugar until pale and thick. Gradually add a bit of the warm spiced milk, whisking well to temper the yolks. Continue adding milk gradually, whisking continuously.
Transfer the mix to a clean saucepan, gently heating over medium heat until slightly thickened—careful not to let it boil to avoid curdling. Remove from heat, stir in rum/brandy (if used), and double cream. Cool, then chill until almost serving time.
Just before serving, whisk reserved 3 egg whites until soft peaks form. Add remaining 30g caster sugar, whisking until glossy. Gently fold chilled eggnog into this mixture.
Serve in glasses, garnishing with freshly grated nutmeg or a cinnamon stick. Enjoy!

Create the perfect eggnog setting with these must-haves – they also make for great gifts to someone special.

🛒 Serve Eggnog in Christmas Tree Glasses

🛒 Eggnog Moose Mugs

🛒 Eggnog Christmas Mugs

As you pour the final glass and the spices linger in the air, this classic eggnog becomes more than a recipe — it becomes part of the memories you’re creating. Enjoy it with the people who make your holidays meaningful, or savor a quiet moment all to yourself. However you celebrate, may this timeless drink add warmth, comfort, and a touch of festive joy to your season.

🕮 Suggested Read: If you enjoy classic holiday sips like eggnog, you’ll love discovering new favourites from around the globe. We’ve gathered 40 of the very best cocktails from around the world — a beautiful mix of iconic drinks, regional specialties, and festive flavours that pair perfectly with your holiday celebrations. It’s the ideal next stop if you’re in the mood to explore more delicious traditions.

Where in the World Is the Best Eggnog?

Eggnog may be enjoyed around the globe today, but a few places have truly perfected it. In the United States, especially across New England and the South, you’ll find some of the richest, creamiest, most traditional versions — the kind that feel like they belong in a holiday movie. Germany offers its own silky cousin, Eierlikör, often sipped at Christmas markets, while the Netherlands serves up Advocaat, a spoon‑thick treat beloved during winter celebrations. Each destination brings its own charm, but if you’re searching for the most iconic, old‑fashioned eggnog experience, America’s holiday traditions still lead the way.

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