Boston Eggnog with Cardamom

No drink is more closely associated with Christmas than eggnog, a rich and potent concoction of cream or milk, spices and a stiff dose of liquor, usually brandy or rum. This version, which also includes Madeira, would be perfect for serving to friends and family around the fire on Christmas Eve.

Ingredients

Directions

Fill a tall cocktail shaker half full with ice. Add the milk, brandy, rum, Madeira, egg yolks, sugar, cardamom and nutmeg. Cover and shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Strain into 2 old-fashioned glasses or mugs, dividing it evenly. Garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick and a sprinkle of cardamom and serve immediately. Serves 2.

Adapted from Williams-Sonoma Holiday Entertaining, by Georgeanne Brennan (Weldon Owen, 2007)