Saturday, November 19, 2011

Pumpkins And Egg Nog And Bourbon, Oh My

The holidays are coming up, which means it is time to figure out all the wonderful things you can do with egg nog and alcohol. Last year, I cultivated the mixture of egg nog and brandy or bourbon, occasionally cutting the egg nog with a little non-fat milk, which served both to make the egg nog last longer, and also to make it a little healthier. I would also sprinkle some ground nutmeg on the top, and I would sometimes make a version of a Brandy Alexander--1 oz Brandy, 1 oz Brown Creme de Cacao or Kahlua, 1 oz Half and Half, and 1/4 tsp of nutmeg--substituting egg nog for the Half and Half.

This year, I've ramped it up a little with some pumpkin liqueur, a wonderful concoction that I did not know existed. Trust Marina's unerring eye for strange and wonderful new sideboard candidates.

The liqueur can be enjoyed alone, over ice or neat. When mixed with egg nog, brandy, and maybe a dash of organic cream, it adds a tasty spice to a gentle, sweet and full-bodied drink which is perfect for a nightcap on an chilly evening by the ocean.

What are your favorite liquid treats for this time of year, alcoholic or non?

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

the one and only time we gave a Christmas party, we served Mocha Eggnog. This was back when the Creamery was a real creamery and made real eggnog without any additives...
In large saucepan, combine 1/2- 1/3 cup instant coffee, two quarts eggnog, 2 cups water. Heat thoroughly but do not boil. In heated cups, place 1/2 jigger (1and 1/2 Tablespoons)of brandy, then fill to within an inch of top of mug. Garnish with whipped cream and cinnamon.
Dec 23, 1976... you weren't even born!