← Back to Cocktails

Tom and Jerry

A hot eggnog-style drink built from a spiced batter, spirit, and hot milk.

Base spirit
Brandy
Style
Hot
Glassware
Mug
Technique
Build

The Tom and Jerry is a hot batter drink related to eggnog: a sweet spiced egg batter is loosened with brandy and rum, then finished with hot milk or water. Rich, aromatic, and festive, it is strongly associated with Midwest American winter service. The batter is the technique that defines the drink.

Tom and Jerry in a mug, creamy pale, nutmeg dusting, light steam.

Ingredients

Servings
  • • 1 oz brandy
  • • 1 oz dark rum
  • • 2 tbsp Tom and Jerry batter
  • • 4 oz hot milk
  • • grated nutmeg

Did you know?

“The Tom and Jerry is often linked to nineteenth-century American bartender Jerry Thomas and remains a Midwest holiday specialty.”

Source:Jerry Thomas cocktail histories; Midwest holiday bar traditions

Bartender's Note

Make batter ahead. Use pasteurized eggs if preferred. Hot milk gives a richer finish than water.

Missing a bottle? See smart swaps in Learn.

How to make the Tom and Jerry

  1. 1Add batter to a warmed mug
  2. 2Stir in brandy and rum until smooth
  3. 3Top with hot milk and stir
  4. 4Dust with nutmeg

Drinks similar to Tom and Jerry

Eggnog

Eggnog

A rich holiday punch of eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spirit, finished with nutmeg.

Brandy Flip

Brandy Flip

A spirit-forward flip of brandy, sugar, and whole egg, finished with nutmeg.

Coffee Cocktail

Coffee Cocktail

A classic flip of brandy, port, sugar, and egg—coffee-colored, no coffee.