Classic holiday cocktails

Stumped for a great bevy to serve at that cocktail party you've been too busy to plan? Or do you need a special drink to entice your guests' palates on Christmas Eve? Try one of these classics; unlike that iPod case you got last year, these never go out of style.

Chances are you're doing some entertaining over the next couple of weeks and it's always a great idea to greet your guests with a house cocktail (at least to start the evening) rather than offering to cork a bottle of wine or pop a beer. Why not offer your guests a velvety smooth glass of homemade eggnog instead? And we're not talking the store-bought kind with a jigger of rum added to it -- though that also has its place.

We're talking about whole eggs whisked into a frenzy with sugar and vanilla until they're light and airy. Stirring in whole milk and heavy cream until the mixture is silken and heavenly. Then ratchet up the adult enjoyment factor by adding a boozy concoction of cognac, rum and rye (we're good-ol' Canadian boys after all). Chill until you're ready to serve, then top each glass with that sweet peppery kick of freshly grated nutmeg.

Serve eggnog as an aperitif with medium to strong cheeses, light seafood hors d'oeuvres or in small liqueur glasses with dessert.

Old-Fashioned Eggnog
Makes 8-12 servings

6 eggs
1 cup (250 mL) sugar
1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla extract
2 cups (500 mL) milk (homo is best)
2 cups (500 mL) heavy cream (38%)
1 cup (250 mL) cognac or brandy
1/2 cup (125 mL) dark rum
1/2 cup (125 mL) rye
Freshly grated nutmeg

Whisk together eggs, sugar and vanilla in a large bowl until light and frothy. Stir in milk and cream then add cognac, rum and rye. Transfer to punch bowl or large pitcher and refrigerate until ready to use. Pour eggnog into old-fashioned glasses filled with ice and garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

*Food containing raw eggs should not be served to pregnant women, babies, children, the elderly or anyone with compromised health.