Nutmeg-Eggnog Martini Eggnog Gets A Grown-up Makeover

Discover the Nutmeg-Eggnog Martini, a delightful cocktail that redefines holiday cheer. Shake and sip responsibly!

Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavour combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favourite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending! Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Nutmeg-Eggnog Martini: A Seasonal Classic with a Twist

When the air turns crisp and the fairy lights start twinkling, eggnog makes its return to the festive table. But this isn’t your standard mug of nog — this is the Nutmeg-Eggnog Martini, a holiday cocktail that’s as refined as it is comforting.

It’s creamy, it’s decadent, and it carries just the right touch of spice. The vanilla vodka brings velvet smoothness, the amaretto adds a sweet almond depth, and freshly grated nutmeg ties it all together with a warming festive fragrance.

A Brief History of Eggnog

Medieval Britain: Eggnog traces back to “posset,” a frothy drink made of hot milk and ale or wine.
Colonial America: With eggs and dairy plentiful, settlers made the drink their own, adding rum, brandy, or bourbon.
Modern tradition: Eggnog evolved into a holiday staple, sipped at parties and by the fire through the colder months.

This martini is a modern nod to those traditions — carrying the soul of classic eggnog into an elegant glass.

Nutmeg-Eggnog Martini Recipe (Australian Measurements)

Ingredients (Serves 1):

60 ml rich eggnog (homemade or quality store-bought)
30 ml vanilla vodka
30 ml amaretto liqueur
Freshly grated nutmeg

Method:

Chill the glass: Place a martini glass in the freezer or pack it with ice water.
Shake the mix: Add eggnog, vanilla vodka, and amaretto into a shaker with ice. Shake firmly for 15–20 seconds until frothy and cold.
Strain & serve: Fine strain into the chilled glass for a smooth pour.
Finish with nutmeg: Grate fresh nutmeg over the top. Its aroma elevates the cocktail instantly.

Tasting Notes

Expect a silky, dessert-like texture balanced with spirituous depth. Vanilla rounds the creaminess, amaretto adds nutty sweetness, and the nutmeg’s spice lingers warmly. It’s indulgence in a glass, perfect for sipping by the fire or raising as a holiday toast.

Pairing Ideas

Spiced ginger cookies – Crunchy, aromatic, and a perfect textural contrast.
Almond biscotti – Ties beautifully to the amaretto base.
Dark chocolate truffles – For full-blown festive decadence.
Cheese platter – Brie or aged cheddar for a sweet-savoury counterpoint.

Variations

Chocolate Eggnog Martini – Add 15 ml crème de cacao for a mocha-like richness.
Spiced Eggnog Martini – Add a dash of allspice or cinnamon bitters for a deeper festive profile.
Irish Eggnog Martini – Swap vanilla vodka for Irish whiskey for a warming, earthy edge.
Eggnog Mocktail – Non-alcoholic eggnog with vanilla syrup + almond syrup, garnished with nutmeg.

Bartender’s Tips

Eggnog choice matters: If using store-bought, opt for a richer one (higher dairy content). Homemade? Even better.
Fresh nutmeg only: Pre-ground doesn’t deliver the same aroma or visual appeal.
Glassware: A coupe works as well as a martini glass; both show off the creamy pour.
Presentation: A single star anise or cinnamon stick garnish elevates the look for entertaining.

RSA Note (Australia)

With 30 ml vodka + 30 ml amaretto, this cocktail comes in at ~2.2 standard drinks (depending on brand ABVs). It’s smooth, sweet, and easy to overindulge in — always serve alongside water and nibbles, and encourage guests to pace themselves.

For full RSA guidelines, see Liquor & Gaming NSW: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/

Closing Statement

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?
Let’s connect and continue the conversation!

Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/

Van Gogh Espresso Martini
Eggnog Cocktail Recipes
Nutmeg-Eggnog Martini Eggnog Gets A Grown-up Makeover
Christmosas Cocktail Recipes
Sustainable And Organic Holiday Cocktail Recipes
Festive Mocktails For Non-Drinkers
Gourmet Holiday Eggnog Variations

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.