A thorough look at historical recipes reveals that for most tipplers , the type of booze they snuck into their nog did n't really matter as long as there was something to give it a little kick . It can trace its roots to a hot cocktail known as posset . In 1800 , the American recipe for eggnog consisted of milk , eggs , rum , and sugar . George Washington 's recipe included 3 types of booze : rye whiskey , rum , sherry . A four - ounce cup of store - bought eggnog boasts a whopping 170 bubbles .
It can trace its roots to a hot cocktail known as posset . In 1800 , the American recipe for eggnog consisted of milk , eggs , rum , and sugar . George Washington 's recipe included 3 types of booze : rye whiskey , rum , sherry . A four - ounce cup of store - bought eggnog boasts a whopping 170 bubbles .