The winter holidays are incomplete without eggnog. A classic, creamy cocktail perfect for Christmas. Although the exact recipe will vary depending on who is making it, the basic ingredients are eggs, sugar milk, cream, and a spirit. Most people use brandy, rum, or bourbon for the spirit. Some even combine several spirits to add some extra flavor. No matter what route you take, the power of this drink will bring a little more joy to your holiday.

Eggnog's rich history includes many competing claims about the origin of the drink. Many of these get lost in an epistemological debate. The Old English term for strong beer could be the source of the name. Perhaps it's noggin, an old word that used to describe small cups. Who knows...

Although it is believed that eggnog was first used in 1775, the actual drink, or a variant of it, predates the term by several hundred years. There seems to be a consensus that eggnog, as we know it today, is a culinary descendant from Posset. European monks first consumed this warm ale punch with eggs in the 13th century.

Ale was eventually replaced in Europe by sherry. And the colonists replaced sherry with rum, rye whiskey, or brandy by the time the drink arrived in America. Despite being so old, the drink is still very popular in the U.S., Canada, and elsewhere. It is especially popular around the holidays and can be enjoyed hot or cold depending on the drinker's preference.

No matter the origin of the drink or the spirit that is used to make it, eggnog can be enjoyed at any holiday gathering. You can make large batches of eggnog and everyone will be happy.