Tom and Jerry in a mug with creamy foam and nutmeg

Hot Drink

Tom and Jerry

How to make a Tom and Jerry - the warm American Christmas drink of rum, brandy, egg and hot milk. A creamy winter classic for sociable gatherings.

15 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
MugGlass
6Serving(s)

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The Tom and Jerry is a classic American Christmas drink reminiscent of a warm, spiked eggnog. An airy mixture of egg and sugar forms the base, which becomes a creamy winter dream with rum, brandy and hot milk. In the cold season it is the perfect companion for sociable gatherings.

Instructions

  1. Whip the egg whites until stiff and set aside.
  2. Beat the egg yolks with the powdered sugar until frothy.
  3. Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture to create an airy base.
  4. Put one large spoonful of the mixture into each pre-warmed mug.
  5. Distribute rum and brandy among the mugs and top up with hot milk.
  6. Stir and sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg.

Garnish: Freshly grated nutmeg

Pro tip: Separate the eggs carefully and whip the egg whites until stiff - the airy foam gives the drink its characteristic creamy consistency.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Tom and Jerry come from?

The drink is attributed to the British author Pierce Egan and has been a popular Christmas drink in the USA since the 19th century.

Can I make it without raw egg?

Since hot milk and possibly pasteurizing lower the risk, it is fairly safe. If you want to be completely sure, use pasteurized eggs.

Which rum works best?

A full-bodied dark rum with caramel and vanilla notes fits ideally with the creamy, sweet base of the drink.

Ingredients

  • Dark rum12 cl
  • Brandy6 cl
  • Eggs (separated)6 pieces
  • Powdered sugar150 g
  • Hot milk750 ml
  • Grated nutmeg1 pinch