DIY Bourbon Barrel-Aged Eggnog A Holiday Favorite

Nothing says the holidays quite like a glass of rich, creamy eggnog—but what if you could make it even better? Enter the bourbon barrel-aged eggnog, a festive twist on a classic drink that brings out deep oak, vanilla, and caramel notes while mellowing out the flavors for a smooth, well-balanced holiday delight.

Aging your eggnog in a small oak barrel not only enhances its complexity but also gives you a batch-ready cocktail perfect for serving at holiday gatherings. Let’s dive into how you can make your own DIY bourbon barrel-aged eggnog at home!

Why Barrel-Age Your Eggnog?

When you age eggnog in a whiskey aging barrel, the flavors meld beautifully, allowing the ingredients to settle into a richer, more refined taste. The bourbon takes on notes of vanilla and spice from the oak aging barrel, while the creamy base smooths out any harsh edges.

Not only does aging eggnog improve its flavor, but it also makes it more shelf-stable—the alcohol helps preserve it, meaning you can prepare your batch weeks ahead of time and let the magic happen.

What You Need for a 1-Liter Batch

Ingredients:

• 500ml Bourbon – We recommend Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, or Maker’s Mark for a warm, spiced finish.
• 250ml Dark Rum – Try Mount Gay or Gosling’s Black Seal for added depth.
• 250ml Heavy Cream – The thicker, the better for a luscious texture.
• 250ml Whole Milk – Balances out the richness.
• 6 Large Egg Yolks – The foundation for that custard-like flavor.
• 150g Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens and smooths the mix.
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Enhances the bourbon’s natural notes.
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg – Adds holiday spice.
• ½ Teaspoon Cinnamon – For a warm touch.
• Pinch of Salt – Balances the flavors.

Tools:

• 1-Liter Oak Aging Barrel – Get yours from Red Head Oak Barrels
• Mixing Bowl & Whisk
• Funnel
• Glass Bottles for Storing

How to Make Barrel-Aged Eggnog

Step 1: Prepare Your Barrel

Before adding your eggnog mixture, you need to condition your mini oak barrel:

• Fill the barrel with warm water and let it soak for 24-48 hours to seal any leaks.
• Drain the water and let the barrel dry completely.

Step 2: Mix the Eggnog Base

• In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until creamy.
• Slowly add the milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt, whisking constantly.
• Pour in the bourbon and dark rum, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Fill the Barrel

• Using a funnel, carefully pour the eggnog mixture into your oak aging barrel.
• Seal the barrel with the bung and place it in a cool, dark place.

Step 4: Let the Aging Begin

• Let your eggnog age for 2-4 weeks, depending on how deep you want the flavor.
• Taste-test weekly—when it reaches your ideal smoothness, transfer it to bottles and refrigerate.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.
• Want to get fancy? Whip up some fresh whipped cream and add a dollop on top.

Pro Tips for the Best Barrel-Aged Eggnog

• Use a quality bourbon – Since bourbon is the dominant flavor, a mid-to-high-end option will result in better-tasting eggnog.
• Be patient – The longer it ages, the smoother it gets.
• Shake the barrel – Give it a gentle roll every few days to ensure even aging.
• Reuse your barrel – Once your eggnog is ready, try aging a Manhattan or Old Fashioned in the same barrel for extra complexity.

Why Every Home Bartender Needs a Small Oak Barrel

Aging cocktails and drinks in a bourbon aging barrel is a game-changer for any home mixologist. A whiskey aging barrel adds unique character, smooths out harsh edges, and creates flavors you can’t achieve with simple mixing.

If you’re ready to elevate your holiday cocktails, get a high-quality oak aging barrel from Red Head Oak Barrels and start aging today!

Final Thoughts

A barrel-aged eggnog is the ultimate holiday treat—smooth, rich, and packed with flavor. With just a little patience and a mini oak barrel, you can craft a festive cocktail that will wow your guests and become a new holiday tradition. So why wait? Start aging your bourbon barrel-aged eggnog today!