Challenge: 10 Tempting Holiday Uses For Eggnog

My first memories of eggnog involve my Aunt Mary, Gram, and a carton of Hill Farm eggnog from a carton. Every Christmas, that carton of eggnog would appear in Gram's fridge, and at least once or twice a season, she'd enjoy a glass of it. If I happened to be at her place, Aunt Mary would offer me a glass, and I'd turn my nose up at it. Eggs aren't my jam. Yet, here I am 42 years later, about to share ten other tempting holiday uses for eggnog.

My Aunt Mary and Gram left out one part of the equation. Eggnog is sweet and delicious; in my mind, it is like liquid cake batter. I finally did try it at a holiday breakfast gathering on the last day at the "office" before the holidays. It was homemade and spiked very liberally, becoming one of my favorite holiday traditions at that job.

Eggnog's roots can be traced back to a drink called posset, a hot, milky beverage made with ale or wine and often spiced in medieval Europe. In the 13th century, monks in Britain added eggs and figs to posset, creating a richer, more custard-like drink. By the 17th Century, it was a favorite of the English aristocracy, and the drink's association with toasting to health and prosperity made it a staple for celebrations.

The drink crossed the Atlantic with the British colonists and became popular in America, where it was also more affordable because milk, eggs, and rum were plentiful. Over time, Americans incorporated bourbon, brandy, and whiskey into various eggnog recipes. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it gained traction as a holiday tradition in the United States and has been served at Christmas parties and celebrations ever since.

Yet, eggnog is not just a cup of holiday cheer; it's a great way to spice up a variety of desserts, breakfast foods, and more for your next holiday get-together. Here's 10 tempting holiday uses for eggnog, just keep scrolling!