Nowadays eggnog is a seasonal drink, only available in stores in the “hot” eggnog months of November and December. Some argue that this is just as well. After all, eggnog clocks in at 400 or more calories per cup, a hefty percentage of that in saturated fat and cholesterol. And that’s just the calorie count for plain eggnog, without the enlivening brandy, bourbon, or rum. There’s no way this stuff is good for us.

On the other hand, it’s sweet, creamy, and delicious, and for others, a mere two months of eggnog isn’t nearly long enough. Homer Simpson—who blames the short eggnog season on the government—pours it on his cereal.

Eggnog is a drink with a long history. It’s a