The Best Damn Bourbon Eggnog Recipe, Period

Ingredients

1/3 c. sugar

6 eggs

1 tsp. anise abstract

1-2 tsp. vanilla

2 tsp. ground cinnamon

2 1/2 tbsp. natural maple syrup

3 tbsp. water

1 tbsp. orange zest

3 c. whole milk

2 c. heavy cream

At least 1/2 c. bourbon

1/4 c. amaretto (optional, but strongly encouraged)

Cinnamon sticks or other seasonal garnish

Directions

1. Separate 6 egg yolks from their whites. Save both in separate containers, and place them in the fridge.

2. In a bowl, combine the sugar, anise, vanilla, cinnamon, water, and 2 tbsp. of maple syrup. Mix until the sugar has fully dissolved. The mixture should have the texture and appearance of chocolate milk.

3. Add 6 egg yolks, mix thoroughly, and chill.

4. In a large sauce pan, combine the milk, cream, and bourbon. Bring to a medium heat. Add the orange zest and bring to a boil. Stir frequently to prevent overfrothing.

5. Once the liquid has been brought to a boil, remove from heat. In a bowl, slowly combine the milk mixture and the sugar/egg mixture, stirring well. Add further alcohol to taste: 2 parts bourbon to 1 part amaretto.

6. Just before serving, mix the 6 egg whites with 1/2 tbsp. maple syrup until well blended and frothing. Slowly mix this into the rest of the eggnog.

7. Serve in cups, and garnish with cinnamon sticks or another seasonal spice.

Not a fan of sweet and frothy? Try whipping up a batch of our Old Fashioned Punch.