Is there anything more comforting than a warm mug of something delicious on a cold winter's night, surrounded by loved ones and twinkling lights? The holidays are a time for cherished traditions, and for many, those traditions revolve around festive food and drinks. Eggnog, with its rich, creamy texture and warming spices, often takes center stage as a quintessential holiday beverage. 

But did you know that this beloved drink has cousins worldwide, each with its own unique twist on the classic formula? Join us as we explore a world of eggnog-like beverages, from creamy coconut concoctions to warm, brandy-laced delights, and discover how Pete & Gerry's eggs can make these drinks even more decadent and delicious this holiday season.

Traditional Eggnog: A Festive Foundation

The exact origins of eggnog are shrouded in some mystery, but most food historians agree that it evolved from a medieval British drink called "posset," a hot, milky ale often mixed with eggs and spices. Over time, the drink made its way across the Atlantic to the American colonies, where it transformed into the eggnog we know and love today. Traditional eggnog consists of whole milk or heavy cream, sugar, raw egg yolks, spices (typically nutmeg and cinnamon), and often a fortifying splash of rum, brandy, or bourbon whiskey. 

While the alcoholic version is a popular adult treat, non-alcoholic eggnog is equally cherished, especially by children and those who prefer to skip the spirits. This versatile base provides the perfect canvas for countless variations, each offering a unique flavor experience.

Regional Eggnog Variations

Let's start our eggnog adventure close to home with some distinctly American variations. 

Tom and Jerry cocktail (Northeast)

Origins

First up is the Tom and Jerry, a classic holiday cocktail with a history as warm and comforting as the drink itself. While its exact origins remain debated, the Tom and Jerry likely emerged in 19th-century America, gaining popularity as a festive alternative to straight eggnog — most notably in Western New York.

How it’s made

Unlike its blended cousin, the Tom and Jerry cocktail features a unique "batter" made with eggs, sugar, spices (typically nutmeg, allspice, and cloves), and a generous dose of dark rum and cognac (or brandy). This batter is then spooned into a mug and topped with hot milk or water, creating a frothy, flavorful drink perfect for chilly evenings. The warm serving temperature and distinct batter preparation set the Tom and Jerry apart from traditional eggnog, offering a cozy, comforting experience. 

Of course, using Pete & Gerry's eggs in your Tom and Jerry cocktail batter will result in an exceptionally light and flavorful concoction. 

Tom & Jerry Recipe

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients:

For the Batter:

• 2 large Pete & Gerry's eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar (optional, for egg whites)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground allspice (optional)

• 1 oz dark rum
• 1 oz brandy
• 4–6 oz hot milk or hot water
• Grated nutmeg or cinnamon stick (for garnish)

Instructions:

Make the Batter:

1. Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites (and cream of tartar, if using) until they form stiff peaks. Set aside.
2. Mix the Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture is pale and thick. Add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, and mix well.
3. Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture until well incorporated. The batter should be light and airy.

1. Prepare the Glass: Use a heatproof mug. Add 2 tablespoons of the batter to the mug.
2. Add Alcohol: Pour in 1 ounce of rum and 1 ounce of brandy.
3. Top with Hot Liquid: Fill the mug with hot milk (for a creamy drink) or hot water (for a lighter option). Stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish: Top with grated nutmeg or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.

Eggnog Latte (Pacific Northwest)

Origins

For a more modern twist, look no further than the Eggnog Latte. This delightful beverage combines the creamy richness of eggnog with the invigorating kick of espresso or strong coffee. This eggnog variation is the brainchild of Dave Olsen, an important figure in the emergent Seattle coffee scene during the 1980s. After a successful trail run, it became a holiday staple of coffeehouses throughout the Pacific Northwest. 

How it’s made

Simply mix your favorite eggnog (homemade with Pete & Gerry's eggs is highly recommended!) with a shot or two of espresso, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon, and voila! You have a festive treat that's perfect for a cozy morning or an afternoon pick-me-up. 

The coffee adds a depth of flavor and a welcome caffeine boost to the traditional eggnog experience, making it a perfect holiday indulgence.

Eggnog Latte Recipe

Serves: 1

Ingredients:

• 1 large Pete & Gerry egg yolk
• 1/2 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or your favorite milk alternative)
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso (1-2 shots)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Ground nutmeg for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a small saucepan, whisk the egg yolk and sugar (if using) until smooth. Gradually add the eggnog and milk, whisking to combine.
2. Heat the Mixture: Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and reaches about 160°F (to ensure the egg is safely cooked). Do not let it boil. Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat.
3. Brew the Coffee: Brew your espresso or strong coffee while the milk mixture is heating.
4. Assemble the Latte: Pour the hot coffee or espresso into a large mug. Froth the heated eggnog mixture using a whisk, milk frother, or by shaking it in a sealed jar until foamy. Slowly pour the frothy eggnog mixture over the coffee.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with ground nutmeg or cinnamon for a festive touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Eggnog’s Cousins Around the World

Now, let's journey beyond the United States to explore how other cultures have embraced the creamy, spiced comfort of eggnog-like beverages.

Coquito (Puerto Rico)

What it is

In Puerto Rico, the holidays are synonymous with Coquito, a rich and decadent Christmas drink that embodies the island's vibrant spirit. Meaning "little coconut" in Spanish, Coquito blends the creamy goodness of coconut milk with rum, spices like cinnamon and cloves, and often evaporated or condensed milk. Some coquito recipes include eggs, others do not.

How it compares

This chilled concoction offers a distinctly tropical twist on traditional eggnog, boasting a smoother, creamier texture and a refreshing coconut flavor that perfectly complements the warm Caribbean Christmas season. 

Coquito Recipe

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 4 large Pete & Gerry's egg yolks
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (13.5 oz) cream of coconut (e.g., Coco López)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 cup white rum (adjust to taste)
• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

1. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk the egg yolks and evaporated milk together. Heat gently over low to medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
2. Combine Ingredients: Remove the egg mixture from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, cream of coconut, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and the cooled egg mixture. Blend until smooth.
3. Add Rum: Stir in the rum to taste. Adjust the amount depending on how boozy you want your coquito. Blend for a few seconds to mix everything well.
4. Chill: Pour the mixture into a glass bottle or pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve: Shake or stir the coquito before serving, as it may separate slightly. Serve chilled in small glasses, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Rompope (Mexico)

What it is

Traveling south to Mexico, we encounter Rompope, a thick and comforting drink with a fascinating history. Believed to have originated in convents centuries ago, Rompope is made with milk, eggs, sugar, and a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. 

How it compares

Often served warm, Rompope offers a richer, more decadent experience than traditional eggnog, and it's frequently enhanced with a splash of rum or other spirits for an extra layer of holiday cheer. The use of Pete & Gerry's eggs in your Rompope will lend an unparalleled richness and depth of flavor to this already luxurious drink. 

Rompope Recipe

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 quart (4 cups) whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 6 large Pete & Gerry's egg yolks
• 1/2 cup white rum (or adjust to taste)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg (if using). Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture starts to steam (do not boil). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Egg Yolks: In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth and slightly pale. Gradually temper the yolks by adding a ladleful of the warm milk mixture to the yolks while whisking constantly. Repeat with another ladleful to slowly bring the yolks up to temperature without scrambling.
3. Combine and Thicken: Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (about 8–10 minutes). Do not let it boil.
4. Cool and Add Flavor: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, stir in the vanilla extract and rum.
5. Chill: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any bits of cooked egg. Pour into a glass bottle or jar and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours until fully chilled.
6. Serve: Shake or stir the rompope before serving. Pour into small glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired.

Bombardino (Italy)

What it is

Finally, our eggnog expedition takes us to the snowy slopes of the Italian Alps, where skiers and snowboarders warm up with a Bombardino. This potent potable typically starts with an eggnog or zabaglione (an Italian custard made flavored with Marsala wine) base, fortified with a generous pour of brandy or rum, and topped with a cloud of whipped cream. 

How it compares

The Bombardino is a distinctly warmer and boozier take on eggnog, offering a delightful contrast to the crisp mountain air. Its creamy, indulgent texture, enhanced by the use of Pete & Gerry's eggs, makes it the perfect après-ski treat. 

Bombardino Recipe

Severs: 4

Ingredients:

For the Egg Liqueur (Advocaat-style):

• 4 large Pete & Gerry's egg yolks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup brandy or rum
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Bombardino:

• 1 cup egg liqueur (prepared above)
• 1/2 cup brandy (or adjust to taste)
• Whipped cream for topping
• Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Egg Liqueur

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy.
2. In a saucepan, gently heat the milk and cream over medium heat until warm (do not boil).
3. Slowly whisk the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks to temper them, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
4. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly (it should coat the back of a spoon). Do not let it boil.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the brandy and vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly before using.

Make the Bombardino:

1. Heat the egg liqueur and brandy together in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring gently. Do not boil.
2. Pour the mixture into heatproof glasses or mugs.
3. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Tips for Serving and Enjoying

Presentation plays a key role in elevating the enjoyment of any holiday beverage.

For classic eggnog and its creamy cousins like Coquito and Rompope, consider serving in elegant punch bowls or pitchers, garnished with a dusting of freshly grated nutmeg or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Individual servings can be presented in charming mugs or stemmed glasses, topped with a cinnamon stick, a star anise, or a delicate grating of nutmeg. 

For warmer drinks like the Tom and Jerry and Bombardino, clear glass mugs are ideal, allowing the rich colors and textures to shine through. A dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice add a touch of festive flair.

Experiment with different spices and flavorings to create your own signature holiday drink. Flavors such as vanilla, honey, and maple would marry beautifully most any drink similar to eggnog. For spiked eggnogs, swap out a bit of the base spirit for orange liqueur or mulled wine, or amp up the indulgence with some hot buttered rum.

And don't forget to share your creations with us on social media! We love to see how you're celebrating with Pete & Gerry's Eggs.

Elevate Your Holiday Drinks with Pete & Gerry's Eggs

This holiday season, elevate your festive drinks from ordinary to extraordinary with Pete & Gerry's Eggs. Our commitment to quality and ethical sourcing ensures that every egg contributes to a superior drinking experience. 

Unlike conventional eggs, Pete & Gerry's eggs come from hens raised on family farms, where they enjoy open pastures and a healthy, natural diet. This results in eggs with richer, more vibrantly colored yolks and firmer whites – the perfect ingredients for creating decadent holiday beverages. The richer yolks lend a depth of flavor and a luxurious creaminess to drinks like eggnog, Coquito, and Rompope, while the firm whites whip up into a beautifully stable foam for Tom and Jerrys and Bombardinos. 

By choosing Pete & Gerry's, you're not only treating yourself to a more delicious drink but also supporting humane animal practices and sustainable agriculture. So, this holiday season, make your celebrations even brighter with the goodness of Pete & Gerry's Eggs.

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