Eggnog is one of those controversial drinks that stirs up strong feelings of either love or hate. We're here to teach you more than you ever thought you’d need to know about this creamy concoction!

Eggnog is a drink you either love or you hate; there is no in-between. Whether you like it or dislike it, it seems almost impossible to go an entire holiday season without someone offering you the rich and creamy drink. Different cultures all over the world have their own special blend of eggs and spice that they like to drink during this special time of year.

So, what is it about eggnog that makes it such a popular drink around the holidays all across the world? The answer may surprise you. Keep reading to find out what it is about this drink that people love so much, and how you can make your own version of eggnog that is tailored more specifically to your unique taste.

Where Did Eggnog Originate From?

It's not quite clear exactly when eggnog was invented, but as far as any historians can tell, a version of the drink was first invented by the British in the medieval ages. Back then, the British would mix a drink that consisted of warm milk and ale. They called this drink "posset."

Some historians believe that in the 13th century, monks took the popular drink and added figs and eggs to the mixture, and would toast to good health and prosperity. Others believe that the wealthy perfected the drink when they added alcohol (like sherry and brandy) to it in order to keep it from spoiling.

However the drink came to be, it finally made its way to America in the 1700s. Back then, farmers would drink it as a way to celebrate the Christmas season. Because it was hard for many American farmers to come-by any expensive alcohol, the American version of eggnog was usually made with cheap rum. In fact, the first known eggnog recipe is from 1775, and the only alcohol that the recipe calls for is rum.

Some people believe that this festive drink got its name from the old English word "noggin" which means wooden cup. Others believe that it derived from the word "grog," which means strong beer. Either way, by the 18th century, everyone seemed to call it "eggnog," and the name has stuck with the drink ever since.

How To Make Eggnog:

Many eggnog fans believe that the only reason some people do not enjoy the drink is that they have only had a watered-down and/or store-bought versions that actually contain more milk than egg. The main ingredients are pretty much the same no matter what type of alcohol you choose to use.

In most eggnog recipes, milk or heavy cream, eggs, sugar, and liquor are mixed together to make the drink. If you want a vegan-friendly eggnog, you can mix soy milk, tofu, and liquor. It produces a very similar taste to traditional eggnog.

What Are Some Different Types of Liquor That Can Be Mixed with Eggnog?

There are many different spices and beverages that you can mix with the milk, egg, and sugar mixture to make your own unique version of eggnog.

One way to make your eggnog taste a little more festive this year is to make gingerbread eggnog. With this recipe, you combine rum, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to your traditional eggnog mixture. The result is a thick and creamy drink that tastes almost identical to a gingerbread cookie.

Many eggnog fans believe that the only reason some people do not enjoy the drink is that they have only had a watered-down and/or store-bought versions that actually contain more milk than egg. The main ingredients are pretty much the same no matter what type of alcohol you choose to use.

In most eggnog recipes, milk or heavy cream, eggs, sugar, and liquor are mixed together to make the drink. If you want vegan-friendly eggnog, you can mix soy milk, tofu, and liquor. It produces a very similar taste to traditional eggnog.

Another idea is to turn your eggnog into a martini. When making an eggnog martini, mix up the eggs, sugar, and milk together first. Then, pour amaretto and vodka into the mixture. Lastly, add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top to give your martini a more traditional eggnog flavor.

If you don't want to mix your own eggs, milk, and sugar, you can always buy the pre-made eggnog and add your own spices and liquor. There are so many different ways to make your eggnog unique and tasty. The most common types of liquor that people mix in their eggnogs are brandy, whiskey, bourbon, gin, rum, and cognac. But, in the long run, you can use almost any type of liquor that you think would taste good. This holiday season, grab your favorite liquor, get creative, and make your own personal version of this classic holiday delight.

What creative eggnog recipes have you come up with in the past? Let us know in the comment section below!