Ingredients

• Eggnog

  • 6 egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 3/4 teaspoon vanilla

  Martini

  • 3 ounces eggnog
  • 1 ½ ounces vodka
  • Ice
  • Cinnamon (optional)

Eggnog Directions

• Whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a large bowl until the mixture starts to thicken. You can use a blender for this process as well if you prefer.

  Pour in the milk and heavy cream and continue stirring. The sugar needs to completely dissolve, which can take up to 10 minutes of consistent whisking. A mixer or blender will speed up the process slightly; just keep the setting on medium-low for best results.

  Add the nutmeg and vanilla and stir to blend with the rest of the mixture.

  Chill the eggnog until you're ready to serve it or mix into a martini. The eggnog will keep in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days.

Martini Directions

• Add ice to a cocktail shaker. In a pinch, you can use a jar as a shaker, just make sure to have a tightly sealed lid before shaking.

  Pour the eggnog and vodka over the ice. Or look into other alcohol options.

  Place the lid on the shaker and shake briefly to mix the ingredients together.

  Strain the mixture sans ice into a martini glass. You can expect the eggnog to be frothy initially.

  Sprinkle cinnamon on top as a garnish and serve.

Variations

• As a rich beverage on its own, eggnog can complement a number of spirits, so while vodka is the most common liquor used in martini cocktails, don’t feel limited by it. Try flavored vodkas such as vanilla or chocolate, branching out and using brandy or a dark rum, or you might consider replacing some of the liquor with an additional liqueur. Espresso liqueurs give an eggnog martini a flavorful kick while amaretto adds a touch of extra sweetness.

Caution

• Because eggnog is made with raw eggs, it can be prone to salmonella or other strains of bacteria if freshly made. If you're unsure about the eggs, your safest option is to use a pre-made eggnog purchased from a grocery, where companies are held to FDA-approved standards.