A smooth, creamy, and slightly boozy delight—Milk Punch is a timeless classic that’s perfect for brunch, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. It’s rich yet refreshing, with just the right balance of sweetness and warmth from the spirits. I’ve made this countless times, and let me tell you—once you’ve had a well-made Milk Punch, it’s hard to go back!
Clarified Milk Punch
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 6 oz (180ml) whole milk
- 2 oz (60ml) bourbon
- 1 oz (30ml) brandy
- 1 oz (30ml) simple syrup
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of nutmeg (for garnish)
Substitutions:
- Use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Swap rum or whiskey for bourbon or brandy if you prefer a different twist.
- Try honey, maple syrup, or agave instead of simple syrup for a natural sweetener.
How to Make It
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, brandy, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds until chilled.
- Pour the milk into a serving glass, then slowly strain the shaken mixture over it. Give it a gentle stir.
- Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top for a warm, aromatic finish.
Tip: Always use fresh lemon juice—it makes a huge difference in brightness and balance.
Serving & Storage
- Best served cold over ice or straight from the fridge.
- If making ahead, store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours (flavors meld beautifully overnight!).
- For a longer-lasting version, try clarified Milk Punch—it keeps for weeks in the fridge.
Perfect Pairings
Milk Punch shines alongside a variety of flavors:
- Spiced desserts – Think cinnamon rolls, ginger cookies, or carrot cake.
- Savory brunch dishes – It’s a dreamy match for eggs Benedict or buttery biscuits.
- Fresh berries – Their tartness cuts through the creamy richness beautifully.
I love serving this with a big weekend brunch—it’s like a grown-up milkshake with a kick!
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists:
- Chocolate Milk Punch – Stir in chocolate syrup for a decadent treat.
- Spiced Milk Punch – Infuse the milk with cinnamon and clove before mixing.
- Tropical Milk Punch – Swap in coconut milk and pineapple juice for an island-inspired twist.
- Non-Alcoholic Version – Mix milk with vanilla extract and a dash of cinnamon for a cozy, booze-free alternative.
Common Questions
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It actually gets better after a few hours in the fridge.
How long does it last?
A regular Milk Punch keeps for a day in the fridge, while a clarified version lasts weeks.
Is this the same as eggnog?
Not quite! Milk Punch is lighter and smoother, whereas eggnog is thicker and spiced with eggs.
Can I serve it warm?
Traditionally, it’s served cold, but you can gently warm it for a cozy winter version.
This has been my go-to cocktail for lazy Sunday mornings and festive gatherings. It’s rich, smooth, and endlessly adaptable—give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a classic!
