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:

  • Ice cubes
  • 3/4 cup (6 fl. oz./180 ml) whole milk
  • 1/4 cup (2 fl. oz./60 ml) brandy
  • 1/4 cup (2 fl. oz./60 ml) amber rum
  • 1/4 cup (2 fl. oz./60 ml) Madeira
  • 2 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
  • 2 Tbs. sugar
  • 2 or 3 dashes of ground cardamom, plus more for garnish
  • 2 or 3 pinches freshly grated nutmeg
  • 2 cinnamon sticks for garnish

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)