As the holidays roll around, we can’t help but crave that velvety eggnog infused with Maker’s Mark bourbon— a twist on a classic treat that’s been warming hearts since colonial times. This spirited version blends rich cream and spices with the smooth, oaky notes of this Kentucky favorite, turning every sip into a festive celebration.
We’re thrilled to guide you through our simple yet elevated recipe, perfect for gathering friends and family. It’s the ideal way to add a touch of sophistication to your holiday traditions without much fuss.
Ingredients
In our Maker’s Mark Eggnog recipe, we select high-quality ingredients to craft a creamy, spiced delight that elevates your holiday celebrations. Below, we list the essentials in the order they’re used during preparation, with precise measurements and prep notes for optimal results.
- 6 large eggs: Separated into yolks and whites for whipping—yolks provide richness, while whites add a light, airy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Used to sweeten the egg mixture—opt for fine-grain sugar to dissolve quickly and enhance the smooth mouthfeel.
- 2 cups whole milk: Added after the egg base for creaminess—ensure it’s chilled to keep the mixture cool and prevent curdling.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Incorporated next for luxurious thickness—whip lightly if you prefer an extra-frothy finish.
- 1.5 cups Maker’s Mark bourbon: The star ingredient for its smooth, oaky notes—measure carefully to balance warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Stirred in for subtle depth and aroma—pure extract yields the most authentic taste.
- Freshly grated nutmeg: Grated just before serving for a fragrant, spicy garnish that awakens the senses with its warm, nutty essence.
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories per Serving | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eggs | 1 egg | 70 | High in protein for a satisfying base |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 tbsp | 45 | Adds sweetness; monitor for dietary needs |
| Whole Milk | 1 cup | 150 | Provides calcium and creaminess |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | 400 | Contributes to fat content for richness |
| Maker’s Mark Bourbon | 1.5 oz | 110 | Alcohol adds flavor; consume responsibly |
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Maker’s Mark Eggnog with precision and ease, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure everything mixes smoothly and safely. Gathering these items beforehand helps us maintain the recipe’s flow from the ingredients stage right into preparation.
Here’s a curated list of the key tools and equipment we need:
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use a large mixing bowl (at least 4 quarts) to separate and whisk the eggs, providing ample space to avoid spills and achieve a fluffy texture.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: A sturdy whisk or electric mixer is crucial for beating the eggs and sugar together; we prefer an electric mixer for quicker results and to incorporate air for that creamy consistency.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring cups and spoons are non-negotiable for precise measurements of ingredients like milk, cream, and bourbon, ensuring our eggnog’s balanced flavors every time.
- Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan (about 2-3 quarts) is ideal for gently heating the milk and cream mixture, helping us avoid scorching and achieve the perfect warmth.
- Fine-Grater or Microplane: For freshly grating nutmeg, we recommend a fine-grater or microplane to add that aromatic spice without any chunks, enhancing the drink’s festive appeal.
- Pitcher or Serving Jug: A glass pitcher or serving jug makes it easy to chill and pour our finished Maker’s Mark Eggnog, keeping it elegant for holiday gatherings.
- Refrigerator and Chilling Container: While not a tool per se, access to a refrigerator is vital for chilling the mixture; we suggest using a sealed container to let flavors meld.
By having these tools ready, we streamline the process and elevate our Maker’s Mark Eggnog to its full potential.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting our luxurious Maker’s Mark Eggnog with simple, precise steps to achieve a velvety texture and aromatic spice profile.
Prepare the Base
To build the creamy foundation of our eggnog, start by separating 6 large eggs, placing the yolks in a large mixing bowl and setting the whites aside for later use. In the same bowl, whisk the egg yolks vigorously with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture turns pale yellow and achieves a thick, ribbon-like consistency—this step ensures a smooth, luxurious base that enhances the overall richness.
Next, in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine 4 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer (around 180°F on a thermometer) to infuse warmth without curdling. Once heated, slowly pour this warm milk mixture into the egg yolk bowl while continuing to whisk, preventing lumps and creating an even, silky emulsion. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and freshly grate about 1 teaspoon of nutmeg directly into the bowl, allowing the spices to release their fragrant, warming notes for a festive aroma that will tantalize your senses.
Add the Alcohol
With the base prepared, it’s time to elevate our eggnog by incorporating the star ingredient—Maker’s Mark bourbon—for a bold, oaky flavor that complements the creaminess. Gently fold in 1.5 cups of Maker’s Mark bourbon using a whisk, ensuring it’s fully integrated without over-mixing; this step adds a smooth, caramel undertone and a gentle warmth that makes our eggnog ideal for holiday toasting.
If desired, in a separate bowl, beat the reserved egg whites until they form stiff peaks, then fold them into the mixture for added lightness and frothiness, enhancing the drink’s airy texture and visual appeal.
Chill the Eggnog
For the final touch, transfer the eggnog mixture to a glass pitcher or serving jug and cover it securely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours—or ideally overnight—to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken, resulting in a chilled, refreshing indulgence with subtle spice notes that dance on the palate.
Before serving, give it a gentle stir and garnish each glass with a fresh grating of nutmeg for an extra burst of aroma, ensuring our eggnog is served cold and ready to delight your guests with its harmonious blend of creaminess and bourbon essence.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Maker’s Mark Eggnog even more convenient for holiday gatherings, we recommend preparing it ahead of time. This allows the flavors of Maker’s Mark bourbon, vanilla, and nutmeg to meld beautifully, creating a richer, more sophisticated drink that impresses your guests. Below, we outline the key steps for make-ahead preparation, ensuring optimal taste and texture while minimizing last-minute effort.
Preparing and Storing the Eggnog
Follow these steps to prepare your eggnog in advance:
- Prepare the base early: After completing the main recipe steps—whisking the egg yolks with sugar, heating and combining the milk and cream mixture, and incorporating the Maker’s Mark bourbon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg—transfer the eggnog to a clean, airtight container. We suggest using a glass pitcher or jar to preserve its creamy consistency and prevent any metallic flavors from seeping in.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate the mixture immediately for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This chilling process not only enhances the spiced warmth of the bourbon but also allows the creamy texture to firm up, resulting in a velvety-smooth sip that evokes the cozy essence of holiday traditions.
- Incorporate egg whites just before serving: If you choose to add beaten egg whites for extra lightness, do so no more than 30 minutes before serving. Adding them earlier can cause the mixture to deflate, losing that fluffy, airy quality we love.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the eggnog’s luxurious, festive appeal. Use the following guidelines to keep it fresh and safe:
- Refrigeration duration: Store the eggnog in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). It will stay fresh for up to 3 days when made without egg whites, or 1-2 days if egg whites are added.
- Freezing option: For longer storage, freeze the base (without egg whites) in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and whisk gently before serving to restore its creamy texture.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Keep covered; stir before serving to recombine any separation. |
| Freezing | Up to 1 month | Use freezer-safe containers; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles to preserve flavor. |
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure your Maker’s Mark Eggnog remains a highlight of your celebrations, delivering that perfect balance of rich creaminess and bold bourbon notes every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on Maker’s Mark Eggnog as a holiday highlight. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a way to add warmth and elegance to your festivities.
We encourage you to make it your own and savor those special moments with family and friends. It’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maker’s Mark Eggnog?
Maker’s Mark Eggnog is a sophisticated twist on the classic holiday drink, featuring rich bourbon flavors from Maker’s Mark. This recipe combines creamy ingredients like eggs, milk, cream, and spices for a festive, warming beverage that enhances gatherings with its historical charm and luxurious taste.
What ingredients are needed for Maker’s Mark Eggnog?
You’ll need large eggs (separated), granulated sugar, whole milk, heavy cream, Maker’s Mark bourbon, vanilla extract, and freshly grated nutmeg. These high-quality ingredients create a creamy, spiced delight—sugar sweetens the base, bourbon adds depth, and nutmeg provides a festive aroma. Precise measurements ensure optimal flavor and texture.
How do you make Maker’s Mark Eggnog?
Start by whisking egg yolks with sugar until creamy. Heat milk and cream, then combine with the egg mixture. Add vanilla extract, nutmeg, and Maker’s Mark bourbon for warmth. Fold in beaten egg whites for lightness, chill for at least two hours, and garnish with nutmeg. This simple process yields a luxurious holiday treat in about 15-20 minutes of active prep.
Can you make Maker’s Mark Eggnog ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it in advance to let flavors meld. Mix the base without egg whites, store in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to three days. Add egg whites just before serving to keep them airy. For longer storage, freeze for up to a month. This makes it ideal for hassle-free holiday parties.
How long can you store homemade eggnog?
Store Maker’s Mark Eggnog in the fridge for up to three days without egg whites, or one to two days with them to maintain freshness. Always use an airtight container. For extended storage, freeze it for up to a month—thaw in the fridge and stir well before serving to preserve its creamy texture and bold flavors.