Does eggnog really have egg in it?

Sweets & Treats

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by Mya Kagan (whyzz writer) >> more about the author

You’ve probably heard of or maybe even tried eggnog, most likely during the holidays or around New Year’s. With such a silly name, you’ve probably wondered… does eggnog really have egg in it? And what about “nog”? What could “nog” possibly be..?!

Traditionally, eggnog recipes do indeed use eggs, as well as sugar, cream, milk, and spices such as nutmeg. But since uncooked eggs can contain harmful germs, some people don’t like to put the eggs into eggnog and instead use other recipes which substitute for the eggs or which heat and cook the eggs.

As for the “nog”… there are many possible histories about where that part of the name came from! One possibility is that it came from the word “noggin,” which was an old word for a small wooden mug that this drink would have been served in. Other old names for this same drink are also said to include “Egg-Flip” and “Egg-Hot!”

Sometimes eggnog is served with alcohol in it and is a Grown-Ups Only drink for that reason. If your family is making some eggnog for a party, ask if you can set aside a small batch without any alcohol for all of the kids to enjoy!

Recipe Hunt

Have a grown-up help you look up a few different eggnog recipes, and compare what you find!

For the recipes that don't use eggs, what other kinds of ingredients seem to be used instead? If you find a recipe that you really like, ask if you can try to make a small batch!