When it comes to spiking your store-bought eggnog with bourbon, finding the perfect ratio is the key to achieving a harmonious and delicious blend of flavors. You don’t want the bourbon to overpower the rich and creamy notes of the eggnog, but you also want to ensure that the alcohol adds a delightful kick to each sip. So, how much bourbon should you add to your store-bought eggnog? Let’s explore the ideal ratio and measurements to create a perfectly spiked glass of holiday cheer.
Finding the Perfect Ratio
The general rule of thumb for spiking eggnog is to aim for a ratio of about five-to-one of eggnog to your selected spirit. This ratio allows the flavors to blend seamlessly, ensuring that neither the eggnog nor the bourbon dominates the palate. With this in mind, you can adjust the measurements based on your personal taste preferences, whether you prefer a bit more eggnog creaminess or a stronger bourbon presence.
Measurements for a Single Glass
For each 8-ounce glass of store-bought eggnog, a single shot of bourbon is typically recommended. A standard shot of alcohol measures 1.5 ounces, which strikes a nice balance between the creamy sweetness of the eggnog and the warmth of the bourbon. This measurement provides a noticeable but not overpowering kick, allowing you to savor the delightful combination of flavors without overwhelming your senses.
Scaling Up for Larger Quantities
If you’re planning to serve spiked eggnog to a larger group of friends or family, scaling up the measurements requires a bit of math. Let’s say you have a 32-ounce carton of eggnog that you’d like to spike, using the five-to-one ratio. You would need a total of 6.4 ounces of bourbon for the entire carton.
To determine the number of shots needed, divide the total amount of bourbon (6.4 ounces) by the standard shot measurement (1.5 ounces). In this case, you would need approximately 4.3 shots of bourbon. However, rounding up to 5 shots will ensure a stronger flavor profile if you desire a more pronounced bourbon taste in your spiked eggnog.
Exploring Different Bourbon Brands
While the recommended measurement of one shot (1.5 ounces) of bourbon per 8-ounce glass of eggnog is a great starting point, don’t be afraid to experiment with different bourbon brands to find your perfect combination. Each bourbon has its own unique flavor profile, ranging from lighter and sweeter to bold and smoky. By trying out various bourbon options, you can discover the one that complements the flavors of the store-bought eggnog the best.
Adding a Personal Touch
Now that you know the ideal ratio and measurements for spiking your store-bought eggnog, don’t hesitate to add a personal touch to your creation. Feel free to garnish your glass of spiked eggnog with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a cinnamon stick for added warmth and seasonal charm. Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with other spirits like rum or brandy to give your eggnog a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
Spiking store-bought eggnog with bourbon is a wonderful way to elevate the flavors and create a festive libation for your holiday gatherings. Remember to follow the recommended ratio of five-to-one of eggnog to bourbon, adding one shot (1.5 ounces) of bourbon per 8-ounce glass. However, feel free to adjust these measurements based on your personal taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to explore different bourbon brands and add your own personal touch to make your spiked eggnog truly yours. Cheers to a joyous and delicious holiday season!
