Instructions
Prepare Egg Yolks:
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks until they’re thick and creamy. Gradually add 1½ cups of sugar to the yolks, mixing until smooth.
Add Bourbon:
- Slowly pour the Maker’s Mark bourbon into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to create a smooth blend.
Whip Egg Whites:
- In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. If desired, add an additional ½ cup of sugar to stabilize the peaks and add sweetness.
Whip the Cream:
- In another bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Combine Ingredients:
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk and bourbon mixture. Then, fold in the whipped cream, creating a frothy, airy texture.
Add Milk and Stir:
- Gradually add the milk, stirring until everything is well combined.
Chill and Serve:
- Cover the eggnog and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Pour into punch cups or glasses, and sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg.
Notes
Estimated Nutrition:
Where it came from
Eggnog's lineage traces back to medieval British "possets," hot milk curdled with wine or ale. It transformed in America, becoming a festive staple from the 18th century, particularly popular in the Southern states where dairy and spirits were plentiful.
This drink falls into the rich, dairy-based cocktail family, sharing DNA with flips and milk punches. What sets eggnog apart is its raw egg base, which gives it a unique, custardy texture, often spiced with nutmeg. The Maker`s Mark version simply specifies the bourbon.
You'd find this at a holiday party, a cozy family gathering, or perhaps a bar that embraces seasonal traditions. It's a drink meant for celebrating, sharing, and settling in when the weather outside is anything but inviting.
What it tastes like
Expect a luxurious mouthful of sweet, creamy dairy and a warm embrace of baking spices. The Maker's Mark provides smooth vanilla, caramel, and a hint of fruity sweetness, which marries beautifully with the richness of the egg and cream, often highlighted by fresh nutmeg.
This is a potent drink. With 1.5 to 2 oz of 90 proof Maker's Mark per serving, you're looking at an ABV in the 15-20% range for a typical glass. That's easily two to three times the alcohol content of a standard 5% ABV beer. Sip it slow.
The technique
This is typically a batch cocktail. Whisk eggs and sugar until pale, then slowly incorporate milk, cream, and Maker`s Mark. Chill thoroughly for at least a few hours, preferably overnight. Serve in a punch cup or small rocks glass, garnished with freshly grated nutmeg.
The most important technique is ensuring the eggnog is thoroughly chilled. Cold temperatures allow the flavors to meld, temper the alcohol, and give the drink its signature smooth, rich texture. Don't rush it.
Ingredient Spotlight
The bottles that make or break this drink.
Bourbon
- Use
- Maker`s Mark, Weller Special Reserve, Larceny
- Skip
- High-rye bourbons like Old Grand-Dad, peated Scotch
- Why
- Maker's Mark's wheated mash bill contributes a softer, sweeter profile with vanilla and caramel notes that perfectly complement the creamy, spiced base without any harsh edges.
Eggs
- Use
- Fresh, pasteurized large eggs
- Skip
- Older eggs, cracked eggs, or anything not explicitly safe for raw consumption
- Why
- Raw eggs are fundamental to the classic texture and richness of eggnog. Freshness is paramount for both safety and achieving that desired silky mouthfeel.
Three Variations
Three real ways bartenders riff on this drink.
Spiked Eggnog
- Beyond Bourbon
- While Maker`s Mark is a classic choice, eggnog also works well with dark rum, brandy, or a blend of spirits for added depth and complexity.
Dairy-Free Eggnog
- Plant-Based Richness
- For a dairy-free option, substitute almond milk, oat milk, or full-fat coconut milk for the dairy components. Ensure to adjust sweetness as needed.
Aged Eggnog
- Time is a Flavor
- Some recipes call for aging eggnog in the fridge for weeks or even months. The flavors meld further, and the alcohol acts as a preservative, creating an even smoother, more integrated drink.
What if I don't have…
Quick substitutions for when the bottle shop is closed.
Use another quality wheated bourbon like Weller Special Reserve or Larceny, or any smooth, slightly sweet Kentucky straight bourbon.
Pre-ground nutmeg can work in a pinch, but use sparingly as its flavor is less vibrant and can be dusty.
Full-fat coconut milk can offer a rich texture, though it will introduce a subtle coconut flavor.
A large pitcher or a few sealed glass jars will work perfectly for chilling and serving individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people search for after Googling this drink.
What is in a Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog?
A Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog typically contains Maker`s Mark bourbon, fresh eggs, sugar, milk, heavy cream, and is often garnished with freshly grated nutmeg.
Is Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog served hot or cold?
Traditionally, Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog is served well-chilled, though some regional variations and personal preferences might call for it warm.
What does Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog taste like?
It tastes rich, creamy, and sweet, with a pronounced warmth from the bourbon's vanilla and caramel notes, balanced by the spices, especially nutmeg.
How strong is Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog?
It's a strong drink. Depending on the amount of bourbon per serving, it can have an alcohol content around 15-20% ABV, significantly higher than most beers.
Can I make Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog ahead of time?
Yes, eggnog benefits greatly from being made ahead. Preparing it a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
What is the best way to garnish Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog?
A generous dusting of freshly grated nutmeg is the classic and most recommended garnish, adding both aroma and flavor.
What kind of eggs should I use for Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog?
Always use fresh, pasteurized large eggs to ensure safety and achieve the best possible texture for your eggnog.
Is Maker`s Mark Bourbon Eggnog safe to drink with raw eggs?
When using fresh, pasteurized eggs and sufficient alcohol, the risk is significantly reduced. Proper chilling also helps.
More Like This
More drinks in the same family.
