The Great Eggnog Mystery

There's no definitive proof that the Reuben sandwich was invented by anyone named Reuben, just as there are several Benedicts who lay claim to Eggs Benedict without producing enough evidence to clear away doubt about its origins.

So goes the story behind the father of our country's most speculated upon culinary achievement: eggnog.

"It's really more of a web-generated myth that he actually had a recipe," said research historian Mary Thompson of the legendary apple tree cutter, general and first President of the U.S., George Washington. "We can't find any evidence here to suggest that he did."

Walter Staib, owner of the historic 'City Tavern' of Philadelphia — the capital, culinary or otherwise, for the Founding Fathers during the struggle for independence from Great Britain — went on to explain that the first documented serving of in America wasn't until 1796.

"Isaac Weld wrote about a small entourage of travelers who stopped at an Inn in Philadelphia for breakfast and enjoyed eggnog with their meal," Staib said. "But I've never seen any historic documentation that talks about George Washington ever enjoying this beverage or having the formula for it."

In fact, little is known about the origin of the "George Washington's Eggnog Recipe" rumor, according to Nancy Carter Crump, culinary historian and author of the book "Hearthside Cooking," which focuses on early American food favorites.

"What we do know is that he loved ," Crump said. "As far as eggnog goes, that's mostly just speculation."

While the origin of this great American classic continues to be debated — with some attributing it to the Germans, other saying the British and a select few suggesting it dates back to Roman times — one thing is certain about Washington's own 'personal' eggnog recipe.

"The traditional eggnog is a rich, creamy grog made of milk, eggs, sugar, rum, bourbon and brandy, with a garnish of nutmeg for spice," Staib said. "A potent concoction that will certainly fill you up with holiday spirit."

So in the end, while it's not debatable that eggnog is now interwoven into the fabric of Christmas, the mystery of where this holiday tradition began remains a mystery.