Eggnog: a holiday classic that sparks joy for some and hesitation for others. This festive drink, with its roots tracing back to the Middle Ages, has become a staple of seasonal celebrations. Over the years, eggnog has evolved, and now grocery store shelves are packed with options ranging from traditional dairy-based recipes to modern non-dairy alternatives.
But which brand stands out as the best? To find out, we conducted a blind taste test of nine store-bought eggnogs, and the results revealed a clear winner that’s as accessible as it is delicious.
The Tradition of Eggnog
Traditional eggnog is a creamy concoction made from milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and a blend of spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Depending on the brand, the drink can vary significantly in texture and flavor. Some are rich and custardy, while others are lighter and spice-forward.
Our test focused on finding the most flavorful and satisfying options. Whether you prefer your eggnog straight from the fridge, poured over ice, or warmed in a mug, there’s a perfect choice waiting for you.
Our Top Picks: The Best Eggnogs of 2024
1. Best Overall: Good & Gather Organic Egg Nog
Target’s house brand, Good & Gather, took the top spot in our taste test. This organic eggnog impressed us with its thick, custard-like consistency and balanced flavors of vanilla and cinnamon. One tester described it as “crème brûlée in a glass,” and its affordability makes it an even sweeter choice.
Pros:
- Rich and creamy texture
- Made with organic ingredients
- Perfectly spiced with vanilla and cinnamon
Cons:
- Mild aroma
Price: $6 at Target
2. Runner-Up: Hood Golden Eggnog
Hood’s Golden Eggnog is a classic choice that wowed testers with its indulgent texture and nostalgic flavor. Described as tasting like melted vanilla ice cream, this eggnog is perfect for those who enjoy a sweeter holiday treat.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Thick, custard-like consistency
Cons:
- May be overly sweet for some palates
Price: $6 at Walmart
How We Tested
To keep the test fair and unbiased, we conducted a blind tasting at our office. Each sample was poured into plain paper cups labeled with letters to conceal the brands. Our team, made up of both eggnog enthusiasts and skeptics, rated the drinks on a scale of one to five based on flavor, texture, richness, aroma, and overall appeal.
The drinks varied slightly in color, ranging from pale cream to a deeper ecru, but the differences in flavor were more pronounced.
Other Eggnogs We Tasted
Here’s how the rest of the contenders stacked up:
Trader Joe’s Egg Nog
This version had a lighter sweetness and thinner consistency, which some testers appreciated for pairing with holiday cookies. However, it had a peculiar bubblegum-like aftertaste that divided opinions.
Turkey Hill Egg Nog
Creamy and flavorful, Turkey Hill’s eggnog featured notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. Some testers remarked that it tasted spiked (though it wasn’t), adding a fun, festive vibe.
Farmland Egg Nog
This option had a pleasant cinnamon-vanilla flavor but didn’t stand out as much as the top picks.
Southern Comfort Traditional Egg Nog
Known for its bold vanilla and cinnamon flavors, this eggnog was the thickest and richest of the bunch. While some testers enjoyed its decadence, others found it overwhelming in large quantities.
Non-Dairy Options:
We also included three non-dairy alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
- Good & Gather Oatmilk Holiday Nog: Thin and lacking the richness of traditional eggnog, this option didn’t compare well to the dairy-based versions.
- Califia Almond Milk Holiday Nog: Slightly watery but flavorful, this drink is better suited as a coffee creamer than a standalone beverage.
- Chobani Oatmilk Oat Nog: Creamier than the other non-dairy options but still fell short in flavor.
Serving Eggnog in Style
No holiday drink is complete without the perfect presentation. Here are a few essentials to elevate your eggnog experience:
- Nog Hog Hedgehog Ceramic Mug ($18): A whimsical option for the eggnog lover in your life.
- Andaz Press Stainless Steel Mug ($18): Ideal for enjoying a spiked eggnog by the fire.
- Spicy World Cinnamon Sticks ($10): Add a touch of flair and flavor to your eggnog.
- McCormick Gourmet Whole Nutmeg ($10): Freshly grated nutmeg takes your drink to the next level.
- Spode Christmas Punch Bowl Set ($112): Perfect for serving eggnog at a festive gathering.
Final Thoughts
Eggnog may not be everyone’s favorite holiday drink, but for those who love it, the right brand makes all the difference. Our top pick, Good & Gather Organic Egg Nog, strikes the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and affordability. Whether you’re sipping it straight or spiking it with your favorite liquor, this eggnog is sure to bring holiday cheer.
Remember, the best way to enjoy eggnog is however you like it. So, raise a glass, toast to the season, and savor the flavors of the holidays!
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.
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Blind Taste Test Reveals the Best Store-Bought Eggnog of 2024
Blind Taste Test Reveals the Best Store-Bought Eggnog of 2024
Blind Taste Test Reveals the Best Store-Bought Eggnog of 2024