What are the ingredients in eggnog?
Eggnog is made from milk or cream, egg yolks or whole eggs, and sugar, usually flavored with nutmeg and vanilla. In the United States, FDA rules say a product sold as eggnog must contain at least 6% milkfat, 8.25% milk solids not fat and 1% egg yolk solids. Alcohol such as rum, brandy or bourbon is added in many homemade versions but is not part of the FDA standard.
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What are the ingredients in eggnog?
The core ingredients are milk or cream, eggs (or egg yolks) and sugar. Most recipes add nutmeg, and many add vanilla.
- Dairy: milk, cream or both.
- Eggs: yolks or whole eggs.
- Sweetener: sugar.
- Flavor: grated nutmeg, vanilla, sometimes cinnamon.
- Alcohol (optional): rum, brandy, bourbon or whiskey in many homemade and holiday cocktail versions.
What does the FDA require for store-bought eggnog?
The US standard (21 CFR 131.170) requires:
| Item | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Milkfat | 6% |
| Milk solids not fat | 8.25% |
| Egg yolk solids | 1% of finished food by weight |
It allows nutritive sweeteners such as sugar, salt, flavorings, stabilizers and certain color additives. The standard does not mention alcohol, so alcoholic eggnog follows other rules. Check the label for exact ingredients, since stabilizers and flavors differ by brand.
How do you make eggnog safely?
Raw eggs can carry Salmonella, and alcohol does not make them safe. Food Safety News reports FDA and USDA advice to start with a cooked base: whisk the eggs with half the milk, heat gently to 160 degrees F while stirring, chill, then add the rest of the milk, cream and flavor. Store-bought eggnog is made with pasteurized eggs. Even with pasteurized eggs, it says the FDA and USDA still recommend a cooked base. Take extra care when serving young children, pregnant people, older adults and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Is eggnog vegan or dairy-free?
Traditional eggnog is neither. Plant-based nogs exist and use nut, oat or coconut milks, so read the label.
How much alcohol is in eggnog?
There is no standard. Store eggnog is usually non-alcoholic, and homemade strength depends on how much spirit you pour. Drink responsibly.
People also ask
What are the main ingredients in eggnog?
Milk or cream, eggs or egg yolks and sugar, usually flavored with nutmeg and vanilla.
Does eggnog have to contain alcohol?
No. The FDA standard does not mention alcohol, and store-bought eggnog is typically non-alcoholic. Alcohol is an optional addition.
Is homemade eggnog safe with raw eggs?
Not reliably. FDA and USDA advice, as reported by Food Safety News, is to cook the egg and milk base to 160 degrees F, because alcohol does not kill bacteria.
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