There is nothing quite like the velvety smoothness and festive cheer of a classic Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe to warm your spirits during the holiday season. This rich and creamy drink marries the comforting flavors of spiced eggnog with the subtle smoky sweetness of bourbon, making it an irresistible seasonal treat. Whether sipped by the fireplace or shared at a joyful gathering, this cocktail brings a perfect balance of indulgence and tradition that feels like a cozy hug in a glass.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several clear glass bowls and cups arranged neatly, each holding different cooking ingredients. On the left side, a white bowl contains four brown eggs, and below it is a larger clear bowl filled with white granulated sugar. Toward the center, there are small clear bowls with various ground spices in shades of brown and tan, including cinnamon and nutmeg. To the right, a larger clear measuring cup holds white milk, and below it, a clear glass cup is filled with a creamy white liquid. Another small clear cup contains a dark amber liquid, likely vanilla or maple syrup. The overall setup is bright and clean, with the ingredients spaced out evenly on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the simplicity of this Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe fool you; each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and aroma that makes this drink so special. With just a handful of essentials, you can whip up a deliciously sophisticated beverage that tastes like the holidays in every sip.

1 cup eggnog: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade eggnog for a creamy, spiced base that forms the heart of the drink.
1 ½–2 oz bourbon: Adds warmth and a slightly sweet, oaky depth that perfectly complements the spiced eggnog.
Pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon: These classic spices enhance the festive flavor profile and provide an aromatic finish.
Ice (optional): Use ice to chill your drink for a refreshing twist or skip it for a cozy warm experience.
Optional garnishes (whipped cream, freshly grated nutmeg, cinnamon stick): These add texture, fragrance, and visual appeal to elevate your eggnog presentation.

How to Make Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Key Ingredients

Start by pouring a full cup of creamy eggnog into your favorite glass or mug. The eggnog provides the luscious and spiced canvas for this cocktail, so pick one you love. Next, measure 1 ½ to 2 ounces of bourbon—feel free to adjust based on your preferred strength—and add it to the eggnog, giving it a gentle stir to mix everything evenly.

Step 2: Choose Your Temperature

Decide whether you want a chilled or warm drink. For a cool option, simply add ice cubes to the glass before serving, which brightens the flavors and keeps the drink refreshing. Alternatively, if you’re craving the cozy vibe, gently heat the eggnog on low heat on the stovetop until warm, but be careful not to let it boil. Then add the bourbon afterward so none of the lovely boozy notes evaporate.

Step 3: Finish with Flavorful Garnishes

To complete your Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe, top the drink with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream for extra creaminess and richness. Sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg over the top to release those warm, spicy aromas. If you want to add a little flair and subtle cinnamon scent, place a cinnamon stick in the glass as an elegant garnish.

How to Serve Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe

The image shows three clear glass containers filled with a creamy, pale yellow liquid placed on a white marbled countertop. On the left, there is a tall bottle with a swing top cap, filled all the way to the neck with the liquid. In the middle, a taller, rectangular bottle with a narrow neck and copper-colored top is also full. On the right, a short, wide-mouthed jar is filled near the top with the same liquid. The background is simple with a slightly blurred, light interior room visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes when serving this drink; they enhance both flavor and aesthetics. Whipped cream creates a luscious layer that melts into the eggnog while freshly grated nutmeg adds a spark of spice with every sip. A cinnamon stick not only looks festive but infuses subtle notes as you stir, deepening the warmth of the cocktail.

Side Dishes

Eggnog with Bourbon pairs wonderfully with rich holiday treats. Think gingerbread cookies, buttery shortbread, or spiced pecans for a crunchy contrast. You can also serve it alongside a slice of fruitcake or a creamy cheesecake to complement the cocktail’s festive spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your serving experience memorable by pouring the cocktail into elegant mugs or vintage glasses. Rim the glass with sugar and cinnamon for a sparkling touch or add a dusting of cocoa powder instead of nutmeg for a chocolatey hint. For parties, serve eggnog in mini mason jars or use holiday-themed straws and stirrers to spread festive cheer through every detail.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover eggnog with bourbon (lucky you), store it immediately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the dairy content and alcohol, it is best consumed within 1 to 2 days to maintain freshness and taste. Stir well before serving again.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this drink, as eggnog tends to separate and lose its creamy texture once thawed. The bourbon’s alcohol content will make freezing uneven, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled in the fridge.

Reheating

To enjoy warm eggnog after storing, gently reheat it on low heat, stirring often. Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate flavors and prevent curdling. Once warmed, add a fresh splash of bourbon to brighten the taste before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade eggnog for this Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade eggnog adds a fresh richness and lets you customize sweetness and spice levels to your liking, which makes the bourbon blend even more delightful.

How strong should the bourbon be in the recipe?

The recipe suggests 1 ½ to 2 ounces, but you can always adjust depending on your preference. For those who enjoy a bolder kick, 2 ½ ounces works well, just keep the balance so the eggnog’s creaminess shines through.

Can I make this recipe alcohol-free?

Yes! Simply replace bourbon with a splash of vanilla or rum extract to maintain warmth and flavor while keeping it family-friendly. The eggnog will still be delicious and festive.

Is it better to serve this eggnog warm or cold?

Both are fantastic choices. Warm eggnog is perfect for chilly nights and adds extra coziness, while serving it cold over ice offers a refreshing twist. It really depends on the mood and season.

What spices work best in this Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe?

Nutmeg and cinnamon are classic and complement bourbon beautifully. Feel free to experiment by adding a hint of cloves or allspice for a unique spin on traditional flavors.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one holiday drink you need to add to your festive repertoire, it’s this Eggnog with Bourbon Recipe. It’s quick, satisfying, and has that magical ability to bring out joy and warmth wherever it’s shared. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every luscious sip of this spirited seasonal favorite!