Egg nog recipes are always in demand during the holiday season. Egg nog has a long history of being a traditional celebratory beverage. Although egg nog has its origin in Great Britain, it became a popular drink in America. Colonial Americans often made egg nog with rum instead of the usual brandy or sherry. Other egg nog recipes use bourbon as well. Because eggnog can be made in large batches, it is ideal for open houses and other large gatherings. Although egg nog often includes a form of alcohol, it is delicious served without any alcoholic additions. For your enjoyment, here is one of the egg nog recipes that can be used for either version.

Creamy Egg Nog

1. 1 dozen eggs, separated
2. 1/2 tsp salt
3. 2 1/4 cups sugar
4. 2 cups bourbon (optional. Use more or less if desired)
5. 1/2 cup rum (optional. Use more or less if desired)
6. 1 quart milk (add another pint of milk if not using liquor)
7. 2 Tbl vanilla
8. 3 pints heavy cream
9. Nutmeg

Beat together the egg yolks and salt in a large mixing bowl, slowly adding 1 1/2 cups of the sugar. Continue beating until thick and pale. Stir in the bourbon, rum, milk and vanilla until well mixed. Beat the egg whites until foamy and slowly add the remaining 3/4 cup sugar, continuing to beat until stiff and all the sugar has been incorporated. Whip the cream until stiff. Now fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture and then fold in the whipped cream. Taste and add more bourbon and/or sugar if necessary. Pour into a punch bowl and sprinkle with nutmeg. The punch bowl can be sitting in a bed of ice to help keep chilled.

The rich, elegant flavor of egg nog is popular with most people. Therefore, there are many egg nog recipes that incorporate the ingredients into cookies, pie, puddings and other desserts. For all kinds of recipes featuring eggs, milk, and nutmeg, be sure to visit the "Egg Nog Recipes Resources" section.