This Baileys Eggnog recipe is not only easy to make, but it combines the smoothness of Baileys Irish Cream with the festive flavors of eggnog. This truly is the perfect cocktail for any occasion, especially the holiday season, and guaranteed to put everyone in the holiday spirit. If you loved our Caramel Iced Coffee recipe, you're going to love this too as it has that similar creaminess to it!
In this post, we will break down the ingredients, provide substitution options, and show you the perfect way to make this eggnog with Baileys recipe, using grocery store ingredients.
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What we especially love about this recipe is that it's so easy to customize to suit your individual preferences. If you like bold spices, you can add an extra pinch of cinnamon or experiment with other warm spices such as a sprinkle of nutmeg. You can use egg-free eggnog, non-dairy eggnog alternatives like almond, soy, or coconut milk, as well as Baileys Irish Cream with a non-alcoholic Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer.
Reasons Why You'll Love Eggnog with Baileys
Decadent Creaminess: The combination of Baileys Irish Cream, eggnog, and whipped cream results in a luxuriously creamy eggnog cocktail.
Festive Flavor Harmony: The recipe brings together the festive and classic eggnog flavor, with its blend of store-bought eggnog, heavy cream, spices, and the distinct flavor of Irish whiskey and cocoa in Baileys original Irish cream.
Easy Preparation: With easy step-by-step directions and simple ingredients, this delicious holiday drink is quick to make, ensuring that you can enjoy it without spending too much time making it.
Perfect for Seasonal Enjoyment: This baileys and eggnog drink is perfect for seasonal enjoyment, making it the ideal drink for holiday parties, Christmas Eve, and cozy evenings by the fireplace.
Baileys Eggnog Key Ingredients
Baileys Irish Cream: Baileys Irish Cream brings a creamy texture to this Baileys cocktail. Its smoothness complements the richness of the eggnog and adds a subtle warmth and a touch of sophistication to it. For a non-alcoholic version, feel free to use Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer or a blend of vanilla extract and heavy cream.
Eggnog: Eggnog serves as the heart of this cocktail, giving it a creamy sweetness. If eggnog is not available, you can make homemade eggnog with egg yolks, heavy cream, cinnamon powder, vanilla, salt, a pinch of nutmeg, and cloves. Alternatively, you can try vanilla-flavored milk as a substitute.
Ground Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances the flavor of this Christmas cocktail and acts as a decorative element. Additionally, you can substitute ground cinnamon with a cinnamon-sugar blend or experiment with spices like nutmeg or cloves.
Cinnamon Stick (Optional): The cinnamon stick not only acts as a garnish but also adds a subtle spiciness aroma and visual appeal to the cocktail as you sip. If cinnamon sticks are not available, consider using a vanilla bean for a different aromatic note.
Whipped Topping: For this recipe, we used store-bought whipped topping but you can make your own by whipping chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Baileys Eggnog Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1
Place your preferred glass in the freezer for a minimum of 10 minutes to have a frosty, refreshing cocktail experience. We love using a stemless wine glass for this delicious holiday drink, but you can use a martini glass or any of your favorite wine or cocktail glasses.
Step 2
In the glass, carefully combine 2 ounces of Baileys Irish Cream and 4 ounces of velvety eggnog. For this recipe, we used store-bought eggnog, but you can use homemade eggnog.
Step 3
Using a long spoon or a stirring stick, gently blend the Baileys original Irish cream and eggnog. Make sure the mixture is well-combined and silky smooth.
Step 4
Top the stirred Baileys and Eggnog with extra creamy dairy whipped topping.
Step 5
Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the top and garnish your Christmas cocktail with a cinnamon stick for an extra hint of warmth and aromatic charm.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
For an extra refreshing experience, we recommend chilling not only the glass but also the Baileys and eggnog before mixing. This ensures your cocktail stays cool without relying too much on ice.
If you're a fan of nutmeg, consider using freshly grated nutmeg for a more intense and aromatic flavor. Grating it just before garnishing will release its oils and enhance the overall taste of this festive drink.
Invest in high-quality Baileys Irish Cream and eggnog for the best flavor. Quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in the overall taste and enjoyment of most cocktails.
The choice of glass can impact the drinking experience. Therefore, we suggest using a glass with a wide mouth to fully appreciate the aroma or a stemmed glass for a touch of elegance. For this recipe, a martini glass or a stemless wine glass would work well.
Storage Instructions
Store-bought eggnog can last for several weeks in the fridge, while homemade eggnog lasts for a few days. Please consume store-bought eggnog within a week of opening.
You can freeze eggnog for up to 3 months. Its texture may become slightly grainy after thawing.
To freeze eggnog, place it in an airtight container and let it cool completely before storing it in the freezer. Remember to label and date the container.
Substitution and Addition Ideas
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can replace Baileys Irish Cream with non-alcoholic Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer. Consequently, it offers a similar creamy texture without the alcohol content.
Opt for dairy-free eggnog made from almond, soy, or coconut milk if you have lactose intolerance or follow a vegan diet. Local grocery stores carry these eggnogs. Two of our favorite dairy-free eggnogs are So Delicious Holiday Nog and Almond Breeze Almondmilk Nog.
Enhance the flavor profile of your creamy Baileys eggnog with a splash of pure vanilla extract, adding a sweet and aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the eggnog.
You can also garnish your cocktail with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of coconut flakes.
Drizzle a small amount of maple syrup over the top of your cocktail for a hint of sweetness and a touch of fall flavor.
Baileys Eggnog FAQs
What is eggnog made of?
Eggnog is a thick, sweet holiday drink made with milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, and spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla. Furthermore, it can be served warm or cold and is at times topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Importantly, the eggs in eggnog are tempered and are not raw.
Where does eggnog come from?
Eggnog is believed to have originated in medieval England as a hot drink called "posset," which was made with milk, eggs, and spices. Over time, it evolved into the eggnog we are familiar with today. Additionally, it's believed that the term "nog" is connected to the small mug known as a "noggin," and the term "egg" refers to one of the key ingredients in the drink. Eggnog gained popularity in the United States during the 18th century and has since become a traditional holiday beverage.
Is eggnog safe to drink?
Yes, you can safely drink eggnog when made with pasteurized eggs and stored properly. Pasteurization eliminates harmful bacteria that may cause foodborne illnesses. If you make your own eggnog, we recommend using pasteurized eggs, although commercial eggnog is usually pasteurized.
What is the alcohol content of eggnog?
Traditional eggnog contains alcohol, usually rum or brandy; however, the alcohol content can vary depending on the recipe. Despite this, children and people who prefer non-alcoholic drinks can enjoy eggnog made without any alcohol.
Is eggnog vegan?
No, traditional eggnog is not vegan because it contains eggs and dairy products. There are many vegan eggnog recipes available that use plant-based milk as well as egg substitutes.
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Recipe
Baileys Eggnog
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place your preferred glass in the freezer for a minimum of 10 minutes to have a frosty, refreshing cocktail experience.
- In a glass carefully combine 2 ounces of Baileys Irish Cream and 4 ounces of velvety eggnog. For this recipe, we used store-bought eggnog, but you can use homemade eggnog.
- Using a long spoon or a stirring stick, gently blend the Baileys original Irish cream and eggnog. Make sure the mixture is well-combined and silky smooth.
- Top the stirred Baileys and Eggnog with extra creamy dairy whipped topping.
- Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the top and garnish your Christmas cocktail with a cinnamon stick for an extra hint of warmth and aromatic charm.
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