Christmas spices are essential to those festive delicacies we enjoy all over the world. Eggnog is one of the drinks that obtains its signature flavour from the likes of wholesale spices. In this week’s blog, our experts take a closer look at Eggnog, exactly what it is and how to achieve those delicious traditional notes and aromas with high quality spice.
What is Eggnog?
Eggnog is a traditional Christmas drink that is usually made with egg white, egg yolk, sugar, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, warm spices and sometimes, alcohol. It’s a festive classic that is creamy, sweet, creamy and typically served chilled. Of course, there are plenty of variations of eggnog available, including those that are served without alcohol, don’t contain eggs and are simply, served warm.
If you’re wondering exactly what the consistency is like, think of a glass of seasonal custard! It’s not for everyone, but if you’re looking for Christmas in a cup, definitely give this a go.
Alcohol in Eggnog
Eggnog can easily be made alcoholic. Rum, bourbon or brandy typical work best here; any of these individually, or a mix of all three together will add an extra dose of Christmas spirit to your evening! When mixed with Christmas spices, these alcohols are rich, warming but not overpowering. About 15-25ml is all that’s needed in each drink – just add to taste.
Can I Drink Raw Egg?
Our recommendation would be to use pasteurised eggs to eliminate any risk of salmonella bacteria in egg whites. Pasteurised eggs have undergone a process of being treated with heat in-shell to destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. If you purchase eggnog from your local supermarket, the eggnog will have been prepared with pasteurised eggs, so this is also safe.
Eggnog Drinks
An eggnog mix can be added to a latte or a cocktail easily. Here’s how!
Simple Eggnog Mix
Eggnog Latte: In a latte, you can simply add an espresso shot and extra milk to your already creamy eggnog. Stir all together and sprinkle Christmas spices on top of your brew!
- 80 ml hot milk
- 160 ml of eggnog
- 1 fresh coffee shot
- Nutmeg and cinnamon for the top
Eggnog Cocktails
White Christmas: Simply stir the ingredients together, pour into a glass and garnish!
- 25ml Southern Comfort
- 5ml white chocolate liqueur
- 125ml eggnog
- Edible gold or chocolate flakes, for garnish
Traditional Dutch Advocaat: Beat the egg yolks, salt and sugar until the mixture is thickened. Slowly add the alcohol and keep beating until blended. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and warm over low heat, continuously whisking. The advocaat is ready when it's nicely thickened and hot but not boiling.
When the mix is thickened and very hot, remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the vanilla extract. Allow the advocaat to cool and then place in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until you're ready to serve in glasses. Top with whipped cream and cocoa powder to serve!
For 8 servings:
- 10 large egg yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 30g sugar
- 360ml brandy, or cognac
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, optional
- Cocoa powder, optional
Essential Eggnog Spices
Cinnamon and Nutmeg are essential to an authentic taste here! Cloves can be used for a slightly more intense and citrussy flavour, however, we recommend using sparingly because it can give eggnog a strong winter spice flavour. With any spice, add a little, mix and taste. You can always add more if you need to, but you can’t take away if you add too much!
Get in Touch
At World of Spice, we understand the importance of traditional tasting, seasonal cuisine. Christmas spices are the key to that festive authenticity. Our service is cost-effective and fully reliable; we go above and beyond for each of our customers to ensure that you get the produce you need for business.
From bespoke blends to a choice of packaging, complete with custom private labelling, our comprehensive service can help you achieve your culinary goals. For more information about our services for trade and retail and what we can offer you, please contact us at orders@worldofspice.co.uk, or feel free to call our team on 01277 633303. We look forward to hearing from you.
