Eggnog as a holiday staple
Eggnog combines dairy, eggs, sugar and nutmeg, with optional spirits in adult versions. Homemade recipes vary from cooked custards to raw-egg preparations.
For food safety, use pasteurized eggs or a cooked recipe when serving vulnerable guests, and keep dairy-based nog refrigerated.
Mulled cider for all ages
Warm apple cider with cinnamon, cloves, citrus and other spices is easy to scale for a crowd and can be served without alcohol. It also perfumes the room while simmering.
Keep spices in a sachet or strain before service so guests are not fishing whole cloves from mugs.
The Tom & Jerry cocktail
The Tom & Jerry is a historic warm holiday drink built around a rich batter combined with hot liquid and spirits. It survives as a regional seasonal tradition more than an everyday national drink.
Because it is alcoholic, label it clearly and offer a separate alcohol-free warm drink rather than trying to make one pot serve everyone.
Build a practical holiday drink station
Offer water, one hot nonalcoholic drink, one cold option and an adults-only alcoholic choice if appropriate. Garnishes should be simple enough that guests are not waiting in line to build a beverage.
Use heat-safe cups and keep hot drinks away from table edges where children can reach them.
Frequently asked questions
Can eggnog be alcohol-free?
Yes. Alcohol is optional and many commercial and homemade versions contain none.
What is a Tom & Jerry?
It is a historic warm holiday cocktail made from a rich batter and hot liquid, typically with spirits in adult versions.
