Eggnog History - A Popular Drink During the Holidays

Eggnog History
A Popular Drink During the Holidays

The history of eggnog can be traced to England in the 1700s. This English creation was a direct descendant from the hot British dring called a posset. To keep warm during the cold winters a drink was developed that mixed warm milk and eggs together. It is sometimes called an egg flip. There are many stories as to the origin of the name 'eggnog'. But the most common explaination is that eggnog literally means eggs inside a small cup. This is because it was first served in a small, wooden mug called a noggin at tables in English taverns. Where it was often used to toast ones health. Some say that the 'nog' in eggnog comes from the word 'noggin'. It is easy to see how an egg drink in a noggin would become eggnog.

It is believed that eggnog is a tradition brought to America from England. It was most commonly enjoyed by the upper class, but with the availability of the ingredients, soon made eggnog a popular wintertime drink throughout Colonial America. Reportedly the first eggnog made in America was consumed at the Jamestown settlement. It was also known that our first president, George Washington, was a fan of eggnog and even devised his own recipe.

During the 1800s eggnog became very popular in England, especially at Christmastime. It was a classic punch that was always made in large quantities and commonly served at holiday parties to guests. Eggnog is still a popular drink during the holidays. It is hard to imagine a Christmas without a cup of eggnog to spice up the atmosphere.

Today, eggnog is made in dairies and is readily available in the grocery stores. But it is a seasonal item and not available all year long. But if you want to make it yourself below is my favorite recipe for basic eggnog.

12 eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 quart cream
vanilla to taste
nutmeg

Seperate eggs at room temp. Beat yolks with half of sugar till creamed, beat whites till peaked then add other half of sugar. Beat cream until stiff. Fold all together. Add vanilla to taste. Place in containers and keep in refrigerator for at least one day. Shake before serving and dust with nutmeg.

The recipe for eggnog has adapted well to local tastes wherever it has landed.

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