North Pole Nog is a cozy, wintertime spin on classic eggnog, perfect for the holiday season. This drink combines creamy textures, warming spices, and a touch of rum or bourbon for added festivity. Served cold or warm, North Pole Nog can be a non-alcoholic delight for the whole family or a spiked treat for adult gatherings. This rich and velvety holiday drink is topped with whipped cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and perhaps a dash of peppermint or caramel, making it the ultimate indulgent beverage for frosty evenings.
Ingredients
- Egg yolks – 6 large, at room temperature
- Granulated sugar – ¾ cup, divided
- Whole milk – 2 cups
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Vanilla bean – 1 pod, seeds scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- Ground cinnamon – ½ tsp
- Ground nutmeg – ¼ tsp (plus more for garnish)
- Salt – a pinch
- Dark rum or bourbon – ½ cup (optional, adjust to taste)
- Whipped cream – for topping
- Crushed peppermint candy or caramel drizzle – optional for garnish
Preparation
Step 1:
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and half of the sugar (about 3/8 cup) until they are smooth and the mixture turns pale and thick. This will help make the nog creamy and avoid any raw egg flavor.
Step 2:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, vanilla bean seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir occasionally and bring the mixture just to a simmer, without boiling, to keep the cream smooth and prevent curdling.
Step 3:
Gradually pour about 1 cup of the heated milk mixture into the egg yolk and sugar mixture, whisking continuously. This tempers the eggs, preventing them from cooking unevenly when mixed with the hot milk.
Step 4:
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the nog thickens slightly. This should take around 5–8 minutes. Do not let it boil, as this can cause the mixture to curdle.
Step 5:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the remaining sugar and optional rum or bourbon, if desired. Pour the nog through a fine mesh strainer to remove any small bits of cooked egg for a smooth finish.
Step 6:
Transfer the nog to a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and cool completely. This nog can also be served warm if preferred.
Step 7:
To serve, pour the chilled nog into glasses, top with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and garnish with crushed peppermint candy or a caramel drizzle for a festive touch.
Variation
- Non-Alcoholic North Pole Nog: Omit the rum or bourbon entirely for a family-friendly version.
- Coconut Nog: Substitute half the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Maple Nog: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a naturally sweet and slightly earthy flavor.
- Chai-Spiced Nog: Add a pinch of ground cardamom, clove, and a star anise pod to the milk mixture for a chai-inspired flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Egg Safety: Ensure that the egg yolk mixture reaches a safe temperature (160°F) to minimize the risk of consuming raw eggs.
- Consistency Adjustment: If you prefer a thicker nog, increase the cream ratio or reduce the milk amount slightly.
- Make-Ahead Option: This nog can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm Version: For a cozy evening, warm the nog slightly before serving and add cinnamon sticks as stirrers.
- Chilled Version: Serve chilled in frosted glasses, topped with whipped cream and garnished with holiday-themed sprinkles or edible glitter.
- Holiday Spread: Serve alongside holiday cookies, fruitcake, or gingerbread men for a delightful pairing.
Tips
- Whipping the Egg Yolks: For the creamiest texture, be sure to whisk the egg yolks with sugar until they’re thick and pale yellow.
- Keeping the Nog Smooth: Constant stirring and moderate heat are key to avoid curdling and ensure the nog stays velvety.
- Extra Garnishes: Fresh mint, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of honey can make for creative and delicious toppings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per 1-cup serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 80mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make North Pole Nog vegan?
A: Yes, replace the milk and cream with non-dairy options like almond or coconut milk, and use a vegan egg substitute.
Q: How can I make it thicker?
A: Adding a bit more cream or allowing it to simmer longer will thicken the nog. Be careful to avoid boiling it, as this could cause curdling.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover nog in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Shake well before serving if it has separated slightly.
Q: Is there a way to make it extra creamy?
A: Folding in a bit of whipped heavy cream right before serving can create an even richer texture.
Conclusion
North Pole Nog is a luxurious, festive twist on traditional eggnog that brings a touch of holiday magic to any gathering. Its creamy texture and balance of spices, combined with the option to spike it with rum or bourbon, make it a versatile drink enjoyed by all. Customize it with flavors like coconut or maple for a unique twist, or stick to the classic version for timeless charm. Whether you’re sipping by a roaring fire or raising a glass with friends, North Pole Nog is a warm, indulgent way to celebrate the season.
Print
North Pole Nog
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Egg yolks – 6 large, at room temperature
- Granulated sugar – ¾ cup, divided
- Whole milk – 2 cups
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Vanilla bean – 1 pod, seeds scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- Ground cinnamon – ½ tsp
- Ground nutmeg – ¼ tsp (plus more for garnish)
- Salt – a pinch
- Dark rum or bourbon – ½ cup (optional, adjust to taste)
- Whipped cream – for topping
- Crushed peppermint candy or caramel drizzle – optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1:
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and half of the sugar (about 3/8 cup) until they are smooth and the mixture turns pale and thick. This will help make the nog creamy and avoid any raw egg flavor.
Step 2:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, vanilla bean seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir occasionally and bring the mixture just to a simmer, without boiling, to keep the cream smooth and prevent curdling.
Step 3:
Gradually pour about 1 cup of the heated milk mixture into the egg yolk and sugar mixture, whisking continuously. This tempers the eggs, preventing them from cooking unevenly when mixed with the hot milk.
Step 4:
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the nog thickens slightly. This should take around 5–8 minutes. Do not let it boil, as this can cause the mixture to curdle.
Step 5:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the remaining sugar and optional rum or bourbon, if desired. Pour the nog through a fine mesh strainer to remove any small bits of cooked egg for a smooth finish.
Step 6:
Transfer the nog to a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and cool completely. This nog can also be served warm if preferred.
Step 7:
To serve, pour the chilled nog into glasses, top with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and garnish with crushed peppermint candy or a caramel drizzle for a festive touch.
Notes
- Egg Safety: Ensure that the egg yolk mixture reaches a safe temperature (160°F) to minimize the risk of consuming raw eggs.
- Consistency Adjustment: If you prefer a thicker nog, increase the cream ratio or reduce the milk amount slightly.
- Make-Ahead Option: This nog can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 80mg
- Protein: 4g