Tom and Jerry Cocktail Recipe (2024)

The Tom and Jerry cocktail might just be the perfect choice for a warm and cozy drink to enjoy during the holiday season. This classic holiday favorite has been around since the 1820s and is a variation of eggnog with brandy and rum added. It’s a sweet, frothy, and warm beverage that’s perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.

The Tom & Jerry cocktail is a popular holiday drink in the upper Midwest and Wisconsin, as well as in England. It’s traditionally served in a mug or bowl and is a crowd-pleaser at holiday parties. The drink’s origins are somewhat disputed, with some attributing it to British writer Pierce Egan and others claiming it was invented in the United States. Regardless of its origins, the Tom & Jerry has become a beloved holiday classic that’s enjoyed by many.

History

The Tom and Jerry cocktail is a traditional Christmas drink in the United States. It is a variant of eggnog with brandy and rum added and served hot, usually in a mug or a bowl. The origins of the drink are somewhat disputed, with some attributing it to British writer and professional boxing journalist Pierce Egan in the 1820s, while others believe it was created by American bartender Jerry Thomas, who is considered the father of modern mixology.

Egan wrote a book called “Life in London” which was published in 1821. The book was a collection of illustrations and articles about the city’s nightlife, including the Corinthian Tom, a notorious figure who was known for his drinking and gambling. Egan’s book also contained a recipe for a drink that was similar to the Tom and Jerry, which he called “Tom and Jerry’s Rum and Brandy.” The recipe was made with eggs, sugar, rum, brandy, and hot water.

Jerry Thomas, on the other hand, was a bartender who worked in the mid-1800s. He published a book called “How to Mix Drinks” in 1862, which included a recipe for a drink that was similar to the Tom and Jerry. Thomas claimed that he invented the drink, but most historians agree that Egan is the true originator.

The Tom and Jerry cocktail gained popularity in the United States in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and it became a staple of holiday celebrations in the Midwest, particularly in Wisconsin and Minnesota. The drink was often served at parties and family gatherings during the winter months.

How to Make It

Tom & Jerry Batter

The Tom & Jerry batter is the key ingredient in making this cocktail. Here is how to make it:

• In a large bowl, beat 6 egg yolks until thin and loose, about 1 minute.
• Add 4 tablespoons of room temperature butter, ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
• Mix well until smooth and creamy.
• In a separate bowl, beat 6 egg whites with ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
• Fold the egg whites into the batter until well combined.

Please note that this recipe contains raw eggs, which may increase the risk of foodborne illness. To reduce this risk, use only fresh, properly refrigerated eggs, and avoid contact between the yolks or whites and the shell.

Variations

There are many variations of the Tom and Jerry cocktail recipe, each with its own unique twist. Here are a few popular variations you can try:

Rum-Free Version

If you prefer a Tom and Jerry cocktail without alcohol, you can substitute rum with apple cider or hot tea. This version is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavors of the cocktail without the buzz.

Low-Calorie Version

For a low-calorie version of the Tom and Jerry cocktail, you can use skim milk instead of whole milk and reduce the amount of sugar in the batter. This will significantly reduce the calorie count without compromising the flavor.

Brandy or Cognac

Some recipes call for brandy or cognac instead of rum. Brandy gives the cocktail a smoother and richer taste, while cognac adds a fruity and floral flavor.

Spices

The spices used in the Tom and Jerry cocktail recipe can also be varied. Some recipes call for nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves, while others use allspice, ginger, or cardamom. You can experiment with different spice combinations to find the perfect flavor for your taste.

Egg Whites

While some recipes use whole eggs, others only use egg whites. Using only egg whites makes the cocktail lighter and frothier, while using whole eggs makes it richer and creamier.

Vegan Version

For a vegan version of the Tom and Jerry cocktail, you can use vegan butter and replace the eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas). This version is perfect for those who want to enjoy the cocktail without any animal products.

What is the difference between Tom and Jerry and eggnog?

Tom and Jerry is similar to eggnog, but it’s thicker and creamier. It’s made with a batter that includes egg whites, egg yolks, powdered sugar, and spices like nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon. The batter is then mixed with hot milk and either brandy or rum. Eggnog, on the other hand, is made with raw eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and either brandy, rum, or bourbon.

Is Tom and Jerry a Wisconsin drink?

Tom and Jerry is often associated with Wisconsin because it’s a popular drink during the winter months in the Midwest. However, it’s enjoyed in other parts of the country as well.

Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.