Food
Fact-checked

At DelightedCooking, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

Can I Freeze Egg Nog?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Many people would like to enjoy egg nog at times other than during the winter holidays. The question for many is whether or not egg nog can be frozen for use at other times of the year. Depending on the circumstances, it may in fact be possible to freeze egg nog and enjoy this sweet and creamy beverage. One of the main factors in the success of freezing egg nog is whether it is commercially made or prepared at home.

Store bought egg nog is generally available in two forms. Displays of canned egg nog usually begin to appear in supermarkets during the month of November, and require no refrigeration. Preservatives in this type of egg nog make it possible to store the beverage in a cool dark place for several months. In this instance there is no need to freeze egg nog. The contents of the can will keep well through the date stamped onto the can.

A glass of egg nog.
A glass of egg nog.

Along with canned versions of egg nog, there are also the containers of the beverage that are found in the dairy case. Purchased in cardboard or plastic containers, this form of egg nog is intended for use over a short period of time. However, it is possible to freeze an unopened container of this type of egg nog successfully. Depending on the recommendations of the manufacturer, it may be possible to freeze egg nog in paper and plastic containers for anywhere from two to six months. Check with the producer of the specific product for guidelines on how long the beverage can be preserved in the freezer.

In the U.S., shelled eggs are not typically pasteurized and when eaten raw can cause salmonella poisoning.
In the U.S., shelled eggs are not typically pasteurized and when eaten raw can cause salmonella poisoning.

Generally, it is not a good idea to freeze egg nog that is prepared at home. The reason for this is that there are relatively few preservatives in the mixture, so the rate of deterioration is faster than commercially prepared egg nog beverages. Even if the beverage is frozen, there is a definite chance of bacteria setting up during the storage period. The raw eggs used in most homemade recipes are one of the main factors that can make freezing fresh egg nog a risky business.

An unopened bottle of egg nog can be frozen, but it should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before drinking.
An unopened bottle of egg nog can be frozen, but it should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before drinking.

When it comes to the decision to freeze egg nog, feel free to freeze commercially produced items, but don’t waste time trying to freeze your own homemade recipe. Also, remember to thaw frozen egg nog in the refrigerator overnight, and shake well before opening the container. Even during freezing, the ingredients are likely to undergo some separation.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including DelightedCooking, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including DelightedCooking, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon307331

Of course, the best answer to the whole question is that companies should offer eggnog to their customers all year long. I'm sure many people would agree with me on this. It's the best breakfast drink I've ever had.

hyrax53

You probably could freeze even homemade eggnog if you seal it well, but my question is why you would want to; it would probably lose a lot of its flavor and bite after some time spent in the freezer.

sherlock87

Rather than freezing the final homemade product, why not just try to stock up on any ingredients that are only available seasonally and use your recipe for eggnog whenever you want? While it is definitely a seasonal thing, there is no rule that says you can't enjoy a cold glass of fresh eggnog in July if you want to.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A glass of egg nog.
      By: uckyo
      A glass of egg nog.
    • In the U.S., shelled eggs are not typically pasteurized and when eaten raw can cause salmonella poisoning.
      By: tycoon101
      In the U.S., shelled eggs are not typically pasteurized and when eaten raw can cause salmonella poisoning.
    • An unopened bottle of egg nog can be frozen, but it should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before drinking.
      By: gustoledo
      An unopened bottle of egg nog can be frozen, but it should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before drinking.