Bourbon Eggnog Cocktail Recipe

Nothing really says winter quite like a glass of eggnog with a splash of bourbon.\
This bourbon eggnog recipe is creamy, spiced, and honestly, it’s got just the right amount of kick.

You can throw it together in just a few minutes, and you don’t need anything fancy.\
I love how the bourbon’s warmth plays with the sweet, rich eggnog—sometimes I want it a little bolder, sometimes a bit more mellow.

You can tweak the flavor easily to suit your mood.\
Go stronger if you want a bigger punch, or lighten it up if you’re just after something cozy.

Bourbon Eggnog Cocktail Recipe

Bourbon eggnog just feels like the perfect blend: creamy, sweet eggnog and that smooth, warming bourbon whiskey.\
A pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon? That’s what makes it feel like the holidays.

Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small saucepan (for homemade eggnog)
• Ladle
• Serving glasses or mugs
• Fine grater or microplane (for fresh nutmeg)
• Pitcher (if making a larger batch)

I keep things simple with my tools—less mess, less fuss.\
A whisk is totally fine, but if you’re making more than one glass, a hand mixer saves time.

Fresh nutmeg is worth the extra step, trust me.\
It just tastes better than the pre-ground stuff.

Ingredients

• 1 cup store-bought eggnog or homemade eggnog
• 2 oz bourbon whiskey (I usually reach for Knob Creek, but use what you like)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, and honestly, I just eyeball it)
• 1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
• Ice cubes (optional, if you want it cold)
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish
• Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
• Whipped cream (optional, but why not?)

If I have time, I’ll make homemade eggnog with eggs, sugar, milk, and cream.\
But store-bought is totally fine, especially if you’re in a rush.

Good bourbon makes a difference, since you’ll taste it in every sip.

Instructions

• Pour eggnog into a mixing bowl or shaker.
• Add the bourbon whiskey.
• Stir or whisk until it’s all mixed together.
• Taste it—does it need sugar? Add a little if you want, and stir until it’s dissolved.
• Want it creamier? Stir in some whole milk or cream.
• If you like it cold, toss in a few ice cubes and give it a quick stir.
• Ladle or pour into your glasses.
• Top with whipped cream if you’re feeling festive.
• Sprinkle with cinnamon and fresh nutmeg right before serving.

I usually serve it right away, so the spices stay bright and aromatic.\
If I’m making a batch ahead, I just keep it chilled in the fridge until it’s time to pour.

Notes

Fresh nutmeg is just better—warmer, stronger, more inviting.\
Cinnamon adds a little spice that keeps the drink from being too sweet.

If you want it lighter, cut back on the cream or swap in low-fat milk.\
For a stronger drink, just add another splash of bourbon.

Homemade eggnog lets you control the sweetness and texture, but honestly, store-bought makes this a go-to for last-minute gatherings.

Would you like me to also write a short homemade eggnog recipe that pairs with this?

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the rich creaminess jumps out at me. The eggnog just glides over my tongue, leaving this soft, velvety feel that sort of hangs around.

The bourbon brings a gentle warmth, but it doesn’t bulldoze its way in. It’s more of a cozy background note than anything else.

Right up front, there’s this sweetness—vanilla, nutmeg, all the usual suspects. And then, the bourbon’s caramel and oak sneak in, giving it some nice depth.

Honestly, it’s got that classic holiday cocktail vibe. Works for a cozy night in or, heck, even a big holiday party if you’re feeling social.

What I really enjoy is how the spice lingers just a bit after each sip. Not overwhelming, thankfully, but enough to remind me of those other holiday recipes I look forward to every year.

The combo of dairy, spice, and bourbon just screams festive cocktail—it’s seasonal, but not so heavy you feel weighed down.

If you serve it chilled, it’s actually pretty refreshing, but still somehow comforting.

Sometimes I’ll toss a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top, and wow, that aroma just makes it feel like an even more special holiday drink.