Eggnog, or egg nog (), is a sweetened dairy-based beverage traditionally made with milk and/or cream, sugar, and whipped eggs (which gives it a frothy texture). Spirits such as brandy, rum or bourbon are often added. The finished serving is often garnished with a sprinkling of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Some recipes call for the mixture to be heated to a safe temperature, to protect from eggs possibly contaminated with salmonella; egg-nog freshly made with contaminated eggs is not safe, despite the presence of alcohol. Eggnog with alcohol keeps well, and is often considered to improve when aged for up to a year. It was also known as the egg milk punch. Eggnog is traditionally consumed throughout Canada and the United States around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Eggnog may be added as a flavoring to food or drinks such as coffee and tea. Eggnog as a custard can also be used as an ice cream base.