The Best Egg Nog Cocktails To Try This Holiday

The Best Egg Nog Cocktails To Try This Holiday

Egg nog is one of those holiday traditions that divides the room. Some guys wait all year for it, others tolerate exactly one polite glass before quietly switching back to bourbon. But here’s the thing: egg nog doesn’t have to be a one-note, grandma’s-punch-bowl situation. With the right spirits and a little imagination, it becomes a seriously respectable cocktail base.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, trying to impress your in-laws, or just looking for an excuse to pour something creamy and boozy on a cold night, these egg nog cocktails deserve a spot in your holiday rotation.

1. The Classic Spiked Egg Nog (Done Properly)

Let’s start with the foundation. A classic egg nog, but made like a gentleman, not a college sophomore.

The traditional combo of bourbon, dark rum, and brandy gives the drink depth and warmth. Bourbon adds vanilla and oak, rum brings a hint of molasses, and brandy smooths the whole thing out. Freshly grated nutmeg on top is non-negotiable—it’s the tie with the pocket square.

This is the version that converts skeptics. Rich, balanced, and dangerous in the best way.

2. Bourbon Vanilla Egg Nog

If you’re a bourbon-first kind of man, this one’s for you. Swapping out the multi-spirit blend for a solid small-batch bourbon lets the whiskey shine without overpowering the nog.

Add a splash of real vanilla extract and a pinch of cinnamon to bring warmth and complexity. The result is smoother, slightly sweeter, and incredibly easy to drink by the fireplace while pretending you’re not going back for a refill.

3. RumChata Egg Nog

Creamy meets creamy—and somehow it works.

RumChata, with its cinnamon-vanilla profile, pairs naturally with egg nog, creating a dessert-like cocktail that tastes far more indulgent than it should. A splash of dark rum helps keep it from becoming overly sweet.

This one’s a hit with guests who “don’t really like egg nog” but somehow finish their glass first.

4. Brandy Alexander Nog

The Brandy Alexander is already a classic gentleman’s cocktail, so folding it into egg nog territory just makes sense.

Mix brandy, crème de cacao, and egg nog, then finish with grated nutmeg or a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s rich, chocolatey, and sophisticated—basically what James Bond would drink if he ever slowed down long enough for Christmas.

Perfect as a post-dinner cocktail when dessert feels like overkill.

5. Irish Cream Egg Nog

This one leans hard into comfort.

Adding Irish cream liqueur to egg nog creates a velvety, slightly chocolatey drink that’s smooth as a well-tailored wool coat. A shot of Irish whiskey underneath keeps things balanced and grown-up.

Serve it chilled or gently warmed for a fireside nightcap that feels indulgent without being flashy.

6. Espresso Egg Nog Martini

Holiday mornings can be long. Holiday nights can be longer.

Combine egg nog, vodka, coffee liqueur, and a shot of espresso for a cocktail that bridges the gap between dessert and survival. It’s creamy, lightly bitter, and perfect for those evenings that start civilized and end with someone putting on vinyl at 1 a.m.

Garnish with coffee beans or shaved chocolate for extra polish.

7. Spiced Dark Rum Egg Nog

If winter had a flavor, this might be it.

Dark rum paired with egg nog and warming spices like clove, cinnamon, and allspice creates a bold, aromatic cocktail that feels tailor-made for cold nights. It’s less sweet, more complex, and ideal for sipping slowly.

This is the egg nog for men who drink their spirits neat the rest of the year.

Final Sip

Egg nog doesn’t need to be reinvented—it just needs to be treated with a little respect. The right spirit can turn a polarizing holiday staple into a standout cocktail that actually earns its place on your bar cart.

So this season, don’t write off the nog. Dress it up, spike it properly, and enjoy it like a gentleman. After all, it only comes around once a year—might as well make it count. 🥃🎄