Tom and Jerry

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 25 min.

Makes

10 servings

Updated: Jul. 25, 2023
It wouldn't be Christmas without a warm Tom and Jerry drink. I was surprised to find out that not everyone knows about this beverage treat. One sip and I'm sure you'll be hooked. It's like a warm version of eggnog—only better. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin

Ingredients

  • 6 large pasteurized eggs, separated
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 tablespoons brandy or rum
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon bitters (preferably Angostura)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar, optional
  • EACH SERVING:
  • 3/4 cup boiling water or hot 2% milk
  • 1 ounce brandy
  • 1 ounce rum
  • Freshly grated nutmeg, optional

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks until thin and loose, about 1 minute. Gradually beat in sugar, brandy, vanilla, pie spice and bitters; beat until thick and frothy, 3-5 minutes.
  2. In another large bowl, with clean beaters, beat egg whites (and, if desired, cream of tartar) on high speed just until stiff but not dry. Fold a fourth of the whites into yolk mixture until no white streaks remain. Fold in remaining whites until combined. Refrigerate mixture, covered, until serving.
  3. For each serving, place 3/4 cup mixture in a large mug. Add boiling water, brandy and rum; stir until blended. If desired, top with freshly grated nutmeg.

Tom and Jerry Drink Tips

Can you make this Tom and Jerry drink ahead of time?

You can make the egg mixture a few hours ahead of time, just make sure to refrigerate it until you're ready to serve since it uses raw eggs. You'll also want to make sure your eggs are separated before you start preparing this recipe. Here are three different ways you can separate eggs if you need a refresher.

What are some variations of this Tom and Jerry drink?

Try making this Tom and Jerry drink with Cognac, which is the traditional brandy to serve with this Christmas cocktail. You could also add different spices and garnishes to your Tom and Jerry, like nutmeg, cinnamon or star anise. If you want to try something a little different, try making your own homemade eggnog. The main difference between eggnog and the Tom and Jerry is that eggnog is usually served cold whereas this Tom and Jerry drink is served warm.

What can you serve with this Tom and Jerry drink?

Serve a traditional Christmas dessert alongside your Tom and Jerry drink for extra holiday cheer.

Check out the recipes for these other drinks you’ve never heard of.

—Christina Herbst, Taste of Home Assistant Digital Editor

Nutrition Facts

1 serving: 340 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 44mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (41g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.