Bourbon Milk Punch
Bourbon Milk Punch has the creamy flavor of eggnog, but without the raw eggs. Whip up this simple five-ingredient cocktail at your next holiday gathering.
If you enjoy the taste of eggnog, but just can’t seem to get past the whole raw eggs thing, Bourbon Milk Punch is for you. Made with heavy cream, whole milk, bourbon, vanilla extract, simple syrup and flavored with a sprinkling of nutmeg, it’s the perfect creamy holiday cocktail.
What is Milk Punch?
There are two types of milk punch. The first is clarified milk punch. This cocktail originated in England and is made by curdling milk. Once the solids are strained, you’re left with a clear, almost colorless liquid that’s in turn used as the base of the cocktail.
The second is a brandy or bourbon milk punch. It’s a popular drink in New Orleans. While the cocktail wasn’t invented in The Big Easy, it’s iconic restaurant, Brennan’s, takes credit for perfecting it.
Ingredients and Tools Needed to Make Milk Punch
With only five ingredients, it’s easy to whip up a classic Bourbon Milk Punch in no time. You’ll need:
- Whole milk
- Heavy whipping cream
- Bourbon
- Simple syrup – Check out this post for instructions on how to whip up a quick and easy batch of simple syrup at home.
- Shaker – if you don’t have a traditional cocktail shaker, any container with a lid that will allow you to pour the finished cocktail into a glass will work.
How to Make a Bourbon Milk Punch Cocktail
First, pour ¾ cup of whole milk, ¼ cup of heavy cream, two ounces of bourbon, 1 ½ ounces of simple syrup and ½ and ounce of vanilla extract into a shaker. Fill the shaker halfway with ice, then secure the lid and shake the cocktail until it’s chilled. Pour the cocktail into a rocks glass. If you like, you can add a little crushed ice to the glass. Complete the drink with a sprinkle of grated nutmeg or cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
- Brunch Treat: The creamy sweetness pairs beautifully with rich breakfast dishes. Serve alongside hot buttermilk biscuits, savory tator tot breakfast casserole, or grillades and grits.
- Holiday Cocktail Hour: Offer small pours in chilled glasses as a festive welcome drink at Christmas or New Year gatherings.
- After-Dinner Sip: Think of this as a lighter alternative to dessert—serve it with chocolate chip pecan pie, white chocolate cranberry bread pudding, or butter pecan cookies.
- Seasonal Garnishes: Boost the presentation with freshly grated nutmeg, a cinnamon stick, star anise, or even a few chocolate shavings.
- Serve It Over Crushed Ice: For a frosty, slushier variation—perfect for warm-weather brunches.
- Make It Mini: Pour into small cordial glasses for tasting flights or party samples.
- Pair With Small Bites: Its creaminess plays well with salty snacks like spiced nuts, cheese straws, or charcuterie. You could even serve it with sweet treats such as homemade divinity candy, creamy pecan pralines, saltine toffee, or bourbon balls.
How Long Will Milk Punch Last?
If you are planning to serve Bourbon Milk Punch at a holiday gathering, you can whip this up in a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to shake the punch well before serving.
Frequently asked questions
I used Woodford Reserve. Other brands I recommend include Four Roses, Bulleit, Elijah Craig, Knob Creek, or Maker’s Mark.
Can I use whiskey instead of bourbon?
Yes. You could also substitute the bourbon for brandy or rum if you prefer.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the cocktail will not be as creamy. I suggest using whole milk or 2% milk.
Is milk punch the same as eggnog?
It has a very similar flavor but with one major difference. Eggnog contains raw eggs, milk punch does not. If the thought of drinking raw eggs makes you nervous, this cocktail might be more your speed.
More Cocktail Recipes You Might Enjoy
Bourbon Milk Punch
Ingredients
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 1 ½ ounces simple syrup
- ½ ounce vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- Pour the cocktail into a rocks glass.
- Garnish with grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick if desired.