Eggnog, a holiday classic that graces store shelves for just a brief season each year, is making its much-anticipated return. Its basic recipe has endured since medieval Europe, typically comprising beaten eggs mixed with sugar, milk or cream, and a spirited kick from elements like rum, bourbon, or Scotch, often garnished with cinnamon and nutmeg. Variations of eggnog can be found globally, with distinct takes from cultures such as Peru and Mexico.

Sales of eggnog have exhibited significant fluctuations over the years, peaking in 2016 and facing downturns by 2022. However, it generally remains a stable product in the market, with U.S. sales reaching 152 million pounds in 2024, an increase from the previous year, according to the USDA.

For those eager to enjoy this timeless beverage, here are eight delightful eggnog recipes to try this holiday season.

Aberfeldy’s Eggnog

This Scotch-infused eggnog highlights honey, spice, and fruit flavors.

Ingredients (Serves about 6)

• 1 cup Aberfeldy 12
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• 1¼ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1 tsp vanilla or a strip of orange zest

Whisk together the eggs and sugar thoroughly. Heat the milk, cream, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon until steaming, then gradually whisk it into the egg mixture to temper. Return to the pan and cook on low until thickened (around 170°F). Cool before stirring in Aberfeldy 12 and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve chilled with fresh nutmeg on top.

Kraken Eggnog

For a thrilling take, this recipe combines eggnog with The Kraken Black Spiced Rum.

Ingredients:

• 1 part The Kraken Black Spiced Rum
• 4 parts Eggnog
• Garnishes: Grated Cinnamon, Grated Nutmeg

Combine in an eggnog or highball glass and stir, finishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Basil Hayden Eggnog

This recipe offers a rich and decadent spin this holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 1 x 750ml Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• 1 quart milk
• 1 quart heavy cream
• 2 dozen eggs
• 1½ cups sugar
• Nutmeg

Separate the eggs and beat yolks until creamy. Mix in sugar, then whip the whites until stiff peaks form, adding extra sugar if desired. Combine yolks with bourbon, fold in the whites, and then incorporate whipped cream and milk. Garnish with nutmeg.

Second Sip Eggnog

This lighter version uses low-proof London dry gin.

Ingredients:

• 160 grams egg yolks
• 5 grams grated cinnamon
• 1 whole nutmeg, grated
• 100 grams sugar
• 600 ml heavy cream
• 1200 ml milk
• 240 grams egg whites
• 200 grams sugar
• 1 liter Second Sip Gin
• 80 ml Frangelico

Whip yolks with spices and sugar. Whip the cream to soft peaks and make a meringue with the egg whites and sugar. Combine everything and whisk lightly with the milk mixture.

Templeton Rye Nog

Enjoy this delightful blend of rye whiskey, rum, and brandy.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup Templeton Rye
• 3 oz Zaya Rum
• 3 oz Brandy
• 1 qt Eggnog

Mix all ingredients in a punch bowl, serving with grated nutmeg on top.

La Mar’s Peruvian Eggnog

This modern Peruvian twist adds vibrant floral notes.

Eggnog Ingredients:

• 6 large egg yolks
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups milk
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon for topping

Whisk yolks and sugar until creamy. Heat cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt until simmering, then temper the egg mixture. Whisk constantly until thickened, then stir in vanilla and chill.

Peruvian Eggnog Ingredients:

• 2 oz eggnog base
• 1.5 oz Vinas de Oro Pisco Brandy Reserve
• 0.75 oz Ancho Reyes Verde Chile Poblano Liqueur
• 0.5 oz Demerara Syrup

Shake all ingredients with ice and serve in a coupe garnished with cinnamon and a chili pepper.

Polar Expresso

Transform the classic espresso martini with a festive twist.

Ingredients:

• Polar Expresso Infusion Kit
• Eggnog
• Whiskey, Bourbon, or Vodka
• Heavy Whipping Cream
• Baileys or RumChata

Infuse the spirit in the Polar Expresso kit for up to three days. Shake with eggnog and serve, garnished with a cinnamon stick.

Coquito

This Puerto Rican coconut eggnog brings tropical vibes to the table.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey
• 3 oz Coconut Cream
• ½ oz Rich Brown Sugar Simple Syrup
• 1 dash Vanilla Extract

Mix ingredients in a glass with ice, strain into a coupe, and garnish with grapefruit peel.

These varied recipes offer different flavors and styles to enjoy this beloved holiday drink, ensuring there’s something for everyone to savor throughout the festive season.