Eggnog is a rich, creamy holiday drink typically made with milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Many people also add alcohol to eggnog, like rum, brandy, or bourbon, for an extra festive kick. But the addition of dairy and raw eggs means that eggnog has a shorter shelf life than other holiday beverages. So how long does eggnog with alcohol actually last?
How Long Does Eggnog With Alcohol Last Refrigerated?
Properly stored, eggnog with alcohol will last for 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. The shelf life depends on a few factors:
- Alcohol content – The more alcohol eggnog contains, the longer it will last. Alcohol helps prevent bacterial growth.
- Pasteurization – Pasteurized eggnog lasts longer than unpasteurized. The pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria.
- Ingredients – Thicker ingredients like milk and cream shorten shelf life compared to thinner ingredients like skim milk or half and half.
- Storage method – Eggnog stored covered in an airtight container lasts longer than eggnog left uncovered.
For best quality and safety, it’s recommended to consume any eggnog with alcohol within 1 to 2 weeks if refrigerated.
Does Eggnog With Alcohol Go Bad?
Yes, eggnog with alcohol can go bad if left for too long. Signs of spoiled eggnog include:
- Curdling – The milk proteins coagulate and separate from the liquid.
- Off smells – Spoiled eggnog smells sour or rancid.
- Mold growth – Mold may grow on the surface of old eggnog.
- Change in color – The eggnog may fade or darken in color over time.
If you notice any of these changes in your eggnog, it’s best to discard it. Consuming spoiled eggnog can cause unpleasant symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
How Should You Store Eggnog With Alcohol?
To maximize eggnog’s shelf life, proper storage is key. Here are some tips for storing eggnog with alcohol:
- Refrigerate – Keep eggnog chilled at 40°F or below. The cold temperature slows bacteria growth.
- Store in airtight container – Limit air exposure by using an airtight jug or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- Don’t freeze – Freezing can cause eggnog to curdle and separate when thawed.
- Keep away from light – Light can degrade nutrients and flavor over time.
Can You Freeze Eggnog With Alcohol?
It’s not recommended to freeze eggnog with alcohol. The high fat and alcohol content of eggnog makes it prone to separating and curdling during freezing. The texture may be unpleasantly grainy or lumpy after thawing in the refrigerator.
Instead of freezing, store eggnog in the fridge and drink within 1-2 weeks for the best quality.
How To Make Eggnog Last Longer
To extend the shelf life of your eggnog with alcohol, here are some tips:
- Use ultra-pasteurized dairy – Ultra-pasteurized milk and cream have been heat treated at higher temps to last longer.
- Substitute shelf-stable milk – Evaporated or powdered milk lasts longer than fresh milk.
- Add vodka instead of bourbon – Clear spirits like vodka or rum allow eggnog to last a bit longer.
- Store freshly made batches in portions – Smaller portions are less exposed to air and separate faster.
Should You Make Eggnog in Advance?
It’s best to make eggnog no more than 1-2 weeks before serving. While you can make it further in advance, the flavor and texture will deteriorate over time.
If you’re planning to serve eggnog for a holiday event, your best bet is to whip up a batch shortly before guests arrive. That way it’s fresh and delicious.
You can also make eggnog up to 1 month in advance if you take extra steps to extend the shelf life, like using ultra-pasteurized dairy. But keep in mind the quality still won’t be as good as freshly made.
Can You Reuse Leftover Eggnog?
Leftover eggnog that has been continuously refrigerated can be reused within 5-7 days past the “best by” date printed on the carton. Make sure to give it a sniff and taste test before drinking again – if it smells or tastes off, it’s best to discard.
Reusing eggnog with alcohol comes with more risks than reusing non-alcoholic versions, since the alcohol content can allow bacteria to grow more quickly. Drink leftover spiked eggnog within 3-5 days for optimal safety and quality.
Is Refrigerated Eggnog Safe After the Expiration Date?
It’s not recommended to drink refrigerated eggnog past the printed expiration date on the package, even if it’s been kept cold. Eggnog expiration dates account for the increased risk of bacterial growth over time due to the dairy and egg ingredients. Consuming expired eggnog can potentially lead to foodborne illness.
However, some people may choose to take the risk of drinking expired refrigerated eggnog within 1-2 weeks past the date. Make sure to inspect it closely first for any signs of spoilage. Eggnog with alcohol has a slightly longer window past its expiration date if it has been properly stored in the fridge.
Can Eggnog Be Used After the Carton Explodes?
If a carton of eggnog expands and ruptures in the refrigerator, it is not safe to consume and should be immediately discarded. This “exploding” effect is caused by gases produced from the growth of spoilage microorganisms. The expansion can force eggnog out of its protective carton and expose it to contamination. Even if it doesn’t look or smell bad, exploding eggnog should not be consumed and can cause severe illness.
Conclusion
Eggnog with alcohol that’s properly stored in the fridge will generally last for 1 to 2 weeks after opening. Look for signs of spoilage like off smells, texture changes, mold growth, or a ruptured carton before drinking. Discard eggnog if it’s past its expiration date or hasn’t been kept chilled at 40°F or below. Making smaller batches and minimizing air exposure helps maximize eggnog’s shelf life. Following food safety best practices when storing eggnog with alcohol helps ensure you can safely enjoy this festive drink during the holiday season.