The Perfect Holiday Eggnogg from Food&Wine--Tom and Jerry

Cocktail recipe: Tom & Jerry © Lucas Allen Tom & Jerry Contributed by John Gertsen SERVINGS: Makes 4 drinks “It may seem like a bit of a nuisance to make such a labor-intensive drink,” says John Gertsen of this classic 19th-century eggnog. “But at the end of a long shift there’s nothing better than a nice, hot Tom & Jerry.” 8 ounces Tom & Jerry Batter (see Note) 4 ounces Cognac 4 ounces aged rum 8 ounces hot whole milk Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish Pour the Tom & Jerry Batter into a large heatproof measuring cup. Gently fold in the Cognac and rum, then gently stir in the hot milk. Pour the drink into 4 small warmed mugs or heatproof glasses. Garnish with nutmeg. Notes Tom & Jerry Batter In a medium bowl, beat 3 large egg whites with 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar until soft peaks form. In another bowl, beat 3 egg yolks with 1/2 ounce aged rum. Gradually beat in 1 cup superfine sugar, 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon ground mace, 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice and a small pinch of ground cloves. Gently fold in the beaten egg whites. The batter can be refrigerated overnight. Makes about 20 ounces.