Best Eggnog Taste Test

A good glass of eggnog takes you back to the excitement of Christmas time as a child, and all the sights and smells and sounds that come with it. Eggnog is one of Female Foodie’s favorite holiday drinks, so Brooke and guest judge Abi Ayres taste-tested 17 different kinds of eggnog to find the best eggnog– one that delivered a nostalgic and classic eggnog taste. 

The judges based each brand on flavor, creaminess, thickness, and color. They tested each brand blind and identified their favorites and their not-so-favorites. Both Brooke and Abi were shocked at which brands made the best eggnog and which ones made the worst. Some popular brands made it to the worst list! 

Brooke did this test with friend and fellow social media star Abi Ayres. Abi is a light on Instagram and shares all things family, food, and laughter. She released a cookbook of family recipes and loves sharing her family traditions online.

Worst Eggnog 

The judges identified three different types of eggnog as the worst of the worst.

3

Trader Joe’s Almond Nog

Absolutely do not buy this product, even if you can’t have dairy. Trader Joe’s Almond Nog tasted, in Brooke’s words, “foul.” She actually spit it out almost immediately after tasting it. With a watery texture and chemical-y, almost paint-like flavor, Trader Joe’s Almond Nog is one of the worst eggnogs that you can buy.

2

Califia Farms

The judges had higher hopes for this premium brand, but Califia Farms let them down. Drinking cinnamon water when you’re expecting thick and creamy eggnog is a complete disappointment. To make matters worse, this one also had a terribly unpleasant aftertaste. If you’re looking for dairy-free eggnog, go with Almond Breeze.

1

Trader Joe’s Light Eggnog

Apparently TJ’s struggles in the nog department. Both Brooke and Abi agreed that this pick was completely inedible. Vile, foul, terrible– all of these words were used to describe this one! Even if you’re looking for a “diet” eggnog, do not buy Trader Joe’s Light Eggnog. Better yet, don’t go to Trader Joe’s for your eggnog, period!

Best Eggnog

Brooke and Abi couldn’t decide on a top 3 together, so they each picked their own #3, and #2, and unanimously agreed on their top pick! Serve any of these picks over Christmas and you’ll be greeted with pleasant, nostalgic flavor.

3

Lactaid (Abi’s Pick)

This one didn’t taste like your traditional eggnog but Abi thought it was so tasty. This lactose-free pick is custardy, sweet, and overall delicious. If you or a family member can’t have lactose, this is the very best lactose-free eggnog that you can find. It tastes like rice pudding in milk form!

3

Southern Comfort Vanilla Spice (Brooke’s Pick)

Both judges liked this one. Unassuming in appearance with a very light color, but not lacking in flavor, Southern Comfort Vanilla Spice Eggnog is creamy and has a very pleasant vanilla flavor. Brooke included this one in her top 3, and Abi also said it almost made its way into third place for her, too.

2

Meadow Gold (Abi’s Pick)

As soon as Abi tasted this pick, she declared that this was her favorite. With a classic, custardy, slightly spiced flavor and rich texture, Abi would confidently serve this brand of eggnog to guests at a party. Meadow Gold Eggnog tastes like the nostalgic drink that you had as a child.

2

Darigold Old Fashioned (Brooke’s Pick)

Brooke’s second choice, Darigold Old Fashioned, has a very creamy base with a spicy flavor that’s just right without being overpowering. No weird aftertastes either, just good, old-fashioned eggnog flavor. A very close second to the number one pick!

1

Darigold Classic

The winner of very best eggnog is Darigold Classic! This one was very similar to Brooke’s number 2 pick, Daigold Old Fashioned, with the addition of nutmeg. Smooth, with great flavor, and with no weird aftertastes, this eggnog has that nostalgic taste that you’re craving at Christmas time. Thankfully, you can find this brand in most local grocery stores. If you haven’t tried this one, give it a try–Darigold might become a family favorite.