Eggnog is associated with holidays or festive seasons, and no drink or food conveys the spirit of the holiday season quite as well as eggnog.
You’ll likely enjoy the holiday spirit while sipping an ice-cold glass of eggnog with or without alcohol mixed in.
Indeed, there have been celebrations by drinking eggnog for a long time as it is enjoyed at special occasions and celebrations only.
Then, fast forward to the beginning of America, and you’ll find eggnog that we enjoy today, whether it’s homemade eggnog using traditional recipes or store-bought eggnog.
Suppose you were to weigh all the store-bought egg nog that Americans typically consume during the festive period, spiked or not.
In that case, the total count will be over 135 million pounds, most of which is consumed during Thanksgiving and until the year end.
Key Takeaways
- There are several types of eggnog available, including classic, low-fat, dairy-free, alcoholic, and vegan options.
- When considering nutritional information, it is important to consider factors such as calories per serving, fat content, sugar content, protein content, and vitamin and mineral content.
- Some popular brands of store-bought eggnog include Southern Comfort Traditional Eggnog, Hood Golden Eggnog, Organic Valley Eggnog, Silk Almond Nog, and Evan Williams Original Southern Eggnog.
- Eggnog can be enjoyed in a variety of flavor variations, such as pumpkin spice, chocolate, cinnamon, coconut, and hazelnut. It can also be served with garnishes like nutmeg or cinnamon, chilled or over ice, paired with holiday cookies or gingerbread, used as a base for cocktails, or topped with whipped cream or caramel drizzle.
What are The 10 Best Store-Bought Eggnogs You Can Enjoy This Holiday
If you want to sprinkle a few drops of it in your morning coffee or enjoy a cup of spiked nog for a celebration, picking the well-made eggnog brand is a serious challenge!
Nowadays there are numerous brands of eggnog available within the U.S. But, only a few egg nog brands you can find in the shop are tasty and considered to be a good choice.
We’ll break down the best store-bought eggnog brands that can be purchased off the shelves that tastes most delicious out of this product that is a clear winner to be the “Most Polarizing Beverage” of the holiday or festive season.
10. Almond Breeze Nog
Almond Breeze’s eggless nog is marvelous at creating the texture and taste of real eggnog while omitting dairy.
The best part is that it’s dairy and soy-free as well, making it perfect for those who aren’t able to consume other types of egg nog because of food restrictions or allergies.
If shaken properly, it’s incredibly thick, and because almond milk is naturally a little sweet, it is ideally like drinks that are traditionally creamy and rich.
Almond Breeze Nog has received positive reviews for its thick consistency and delicious flavor, with many consumers stating that it tastes just like the real deal.
It’s also highly recommended by those who can’t consume dairy products, as it’s their favorite non-dairy nog option.
However, some mixed reviews mention that the nog may be too thick for their liking or that the flavor isn’t as creamy as they’d prefer.
Almond Breeze is worth a taste if you’re allergic to dairy or are simply curious about the egg nog flavor.
Key Features:
- Non-dairy almondmilk eggnog
- Only 60 calories per serving
Pros:
- Delicious and satisfying taste
- Thick consistency
- Suitable for those with dietary restrictions or preferences
- Highly recommended by non-dairy consumers
Cons:
- May be too thick for some consumers
- Flavor may not be as creamy as desired
9. Ronnybrook Egg Nog
Ronnybrook has the highest quality among the dozens without artificial colors or flavors.
While Ronnybrook Egg Nog is challenging to locate off the shelves, the taste of this drink is amazing when you finally grab it at grocery store.
Some may be impressed by the “hearty texture’ of eggnog, whereas others might not be a fan of the somewhat spongy texture.
Although it’s made of basic ingredients like cream, milk, egg yolks, sugar, and nutmeg, this yummy egg nog is worthy of money you spend.
However, one downside is that Ronnybrook Egg Nog is only available for a short time during the holidays, making it a limited treat.
On the positive side, the packaging has been updated to a more convenient format, eliminating the need for glass bottles.
Overall, Ronnybrook Egg Nog is a top choice for those seeking a delicious and authentic store-bought eggnog.
Key Features:
- Brand: Ronnybrook Farm Dairy
- Size: 32 FZ
- Ingredients: All genuine natural ingredients
Pros:
- Creamy and rich flavor
- Thick and rich texture
- Made with all genuine natural ingredients
Cons:
- Limited availability during the holidays
- No longer comes in glass bottles
8. So Delicious Coconut Milk Holiday Nog
If you’re looking for certified vegan and dairy-free eggnog, there isn’t a better alternative other than So Delicious Coconut Milk Holiday Nog.
The non-dairy eggnog made of coconut was a bit rough to drink by itself.
If you’re lactose intolerant, you should purchase this instead since it is a better choice than any eggnog that is made from almond milk.
It’s still smooth and mildly spiced but not overly, and the absence of egg mellows the texture and taste.
The smooth and creamy coconut milk base gives it a luscious texture, while a hint of spicy nutmeg adds just the right amount of warmth. What sets this eggnog apart is its shelf-stable packaging, allowing you to enjoy it anytime without the need for refrigeration.
If you’ve purchased So Delicious this holiday season, make sure you also buy liquor for a more festive drink.
Key Features:
- Brand: So Delicious
- Size: 1 Quart
- Dairy-, lactose-, and casein-free
- No carrageenan, gluten, or egg
Pros:
- Rich and nostalgic flavor
- Smooth and creamy texture
- Vegan and Non-GMO Project Verified
- Convenient shelf-stable packaging
- Free from dairy, lactose, and gluten
Cons:
- Some customers may prefer the taste of traditional milk eggnog
- Availability may be limited or difficult to find in stock
7. Trader Joe’s Egg Nog
The flavor of Trader Joe’s Egg Nog is an exhilarating experience for your taste buds and it is a wallet friendly choice.
It’s better than bad with sweet and nutty flavor. Its texture is creamy enough but not too much.
If you’d rather drink a glass with or without rum during the excitement of unwrapping presents or make a delicious dessert, this nog is more than up to do the job.
Overall, that’s a winning blend that will make you want to visit the Trader Joe’s store every year to grab this item.
6. Organic Valley Egg Nog
The eggnog with nutmeg speckles was the winner since tasters found it to be rich but not excessively sweet or thick.
The ingredients in Organic Valley Egg Nog are natural, from organic nutmeg to organic eggs and organic cane sugar to organic milk.
Alongside being committed to organic farming and fair trade, this eggnog is free of harmful antibiotics, pesticides, synthetic hormones or any kind of GMO.
A few people thought the vanilla taste was stronger than egg-iness, but many praised it as smooth, and drinkable flavors.
It’s a smooth and satisfying taste with a well-made thickness to it. The eggnog is sweet enough without any strange chemical tasting flavors.
Overall, Organic Valley Egg Nog tastes delicious.
5. 365 Traditional Egg Nog by Whole Foods Market
365 Traditional Egg Nog from Whole Foods is not overly sweet, and it has a pleasant flavor but is less rich than Southern Comfort’s.
It’s not overly spicy. You can also smell a substantial quantity of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Next best to Organic Valley. It’s very rich more than most (w/ real milk & cream). I like some w/ a little booze(rum or brandy) or cut w/ a little milk or used in French toast or I freeze a bit for my pretend ice cream(ice milk in taste reality). Happy Holidays!
says Riggs on a review at amazon.com
Additionally, the egg nog can be consumed without alcohol, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy.
However, some customers have found the expiration date to be earlier than expected. Despite this, the overall satisfaction with the Traditional Egg Nog by Whole Foods Market remains high.
We think this could be a great mixer for booze as it doesn’t overwhelm the alcohol, and the alcohol may not overwhelm it.
Key Features:
- Name: Traditional Egg Nog by Whole Foods Market
- Size: 32 Ounce
- Brand: 365 by Whole Foods Market
- Availability: Seasonal
Pros:
- Good taste and thickness
- Versatile usage in recipes
- Can be consumed without alcohol
Cons:
- Expiration date may be earlier than expected
4. Turkey Hill Egg Nog
Turkey Hill Nog is way above average and certainly worth the price. This eggnog is made using fresh milk and cream, with the perfect quantity of egg yolks, sugar and nutmeg.
Even though it’s alcohol-free, this eggnog tasted as if rum was poured into a bowl of eggs.
If you’d like your egg nog to be extra cool, Turkey Hill also makes an Ice cream version of their egg nog.
This best store-bought eggnog promises to be premium-quality and certainly exceeds expectations.
This is a worthy purchase and is a good option to put on the table this holiday season.
3. Hood Golden Eggnog
When you pour Hood Golden Eggnog into a glass, you’ll be sure that you’re getting something completely exclusive.
As the name implies, this eggnog has a golden hue due to the egg yolks added to it and the creamy milk included in the recipe.
Hood Golden eggnog’s combination of extra creamy milk, spices, and sugared yolks makes it a popular holiday drink, whether you sip straight out of the glass or combine it in your most-loved recipes.
This drink from Hood’s is so much tasty that your senses will be satisfied when you take the first glass.
It could be different than the traditional eggnog; however, if you’re looking to introduce something new to the mix this holiday season, then this store-bought nog is the best to purchase!
Key Features:
- Brand: Hood
- Flavor: Golden Eggnog
- Seasonal product
- Thick and creamy texture
Pros:
- Tastes like homemade eggnog
- Balanced sweetness and spices
- Creamy and smooth texture
- Can be enjoyed alone or mixed with alcohol
- Perfect for the holiday season
Cons:
- Only available seasonally
- May be too sweet for some individuals
- Limited availability in certain stores
2. Horizon Organic Low-Fat Egg Nog
If you’re seeking a more homemade flavor, Horizon’s version is most likely the closest one you can find. It’s sweeter along with great flavors of the cinnamon and nutmeg.
What sounds healthy with “organic” and “low fat” on its label isn’t going to taste great, can it?
You’ll be disappointed then if you thought so. This store-bought egg nog tastes amazing despite being organic and low fat.
The sugar content of eggnogs originates from sugar cane, not corn syrup, which means there’s a huge benefit to healthy eggnogs.
Horizon Organic Low-Fat Egg Nog is best served at a sufficiently chilled temperature.
If you’re looking for the best store-bought eggnog you can buy in the local grocery or indulge on your own than Horizon’s nog, it’s the perfect choice.
Key Features:
- Size: 32 oz
- Organic milk and eggs
- Contains organic nutmeg
- Low-fat
- USDA Organic
- Ultra-pasteurized
Pros:
- Excellent flavor with a balance of spices
- Wholesome ingredients without artificial additives
- Enjoyable texture
- Loved by both children and adults
- Suitable for holiday traditions
- Can be frozen for later consumption
Cons:
- Some find it too sweet and dilute it with milk
- Sweeter than other brands, which some enjoy and others find bland
- Not as rich as traditional eggnog
1. Southern Comfort Traditional Egg Nog
This traditional store-bought eggnog made by Southern Comfort was the thickest, creamiest and richest of the dozens of eggnog on the shelves.
Its deep ivory and light-yellow color that is quite enjoyable when served in a cup or mug.
The Southern Comfort was very thick, mild, soft, sweet, and tangy. It was very orange and can observe egginess in its flavor.
The ingredients for Traditional Southern Comfort eggnog are cream, milk, egg yolks, corn syrup, artificial and natural flavors, spices, etc.
The eggnog was clear in its spice taste, which was warm and delicious. It also had a thick and creamy texture that was worthy of comparison to melted ice cream.
If you’re planning to make something other than your own homemade eggnog recipe, it is possible to use this best store-bought egg nog as an excellent option to have in your pantry for this upcoming festive and holiday seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can store-bought eggnog be stored in the refrigerator?
Store-bought eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for about 5-7 days after opening. Make sure to check the expiration date and follow refrigeration guidelines. If it smells off or has changed consistency, it’s best to discard it.
Are store-bought eggnogs suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions, such as lactose intolerance or vegan diets?
Store-bought eggnogs may not always be suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions. However, there are lactose-free options and vegan alternatives available. For health benefits, homemade recipes allow for customization and taste comparisons.
Can store-bought eggnog be mixed with alcohol, and if so, what are some recommended spirits?
Yes, store-bought eggnog can be mixed with alcohol! Popular pairings include rum, brandy, and bourbon. Try creative cocktails like Eggnog Martini or Spiced Rum Eggnog. Enhance the flavor with cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract. Explore different brands for taste and quality. Cheers!
Is it safe to consume store-bought eggnog raw, or should it be heated before serving?
It’s important to know if store-bought eggnog should be heated before serving. Heating eggnog enhances its nutritional benefits and flavors. Raw eggnog poses health risks, so follow expert tips for safe heating and serving.
Are there any specific serving suggestions or garnishes that pair well with store-bought eggnog?
For serving suggestions and garnish ideas, try sprinkling nutmeg or cinnamon on top of your store-bought eggnog. You can also experiment with flavor pairings like adding a splash of rum or a dollop of whipped cream. Get creative and try alternative uses or creative additions like using eggnog as a base for a festive milkshake or in a holiday-inspired cocktail.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to store-bought eggnogs, there are a few standout options that are sure to delight your taste buds.
From the rich and creamy flavors to the subtly spiced notes, each eggnog offers a unique and indulgent experience.
So, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a festive treat, these top-rated eggnogs are worth a try.
Remember, don’t judge a book by its cover – the best eggnog may surprise you!
