Hot Buttered Rum is an iconic winter drink that has been a staple for centuries, bringing warmth and a sense of coziness to cold nights. It’s smooth, creamy, and filled with rich flavors from spices, dark rum, and butter. This comforting cocktail has roots that trace back to colonial America, where rum was both affordable and popular. Today, Hot Buttered Rum continues to be a favorite choice for holiday gatherings and winter nights in. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for bringing people together with its decadent taste and aroma. Here’s everything you need to know about making the perfect Hot Buttered Rum, including the ingredients, preparation steps, serving suggestions, and tips to make it unique.
Ingredients
For the Butter Mixture (Enough for Multiple Servings):
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Each Serving:
- 2 tablespoons of the butter mixture
- 1½ ounces dark rum
- ¾ cup hot water or hot milk (for a creamier version)
- Optional garnish: cinnamon stick, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nutmeg
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt. Stir until smooth and well-blended. For an extra depth of flavor, add vanilla extract. Spoon the butter mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate until needed, or freeze for longer storage.
Step 2: Make the Drink
Add 2 tablespoons of the butter mixture to a heat-safe mug. Pour in 1½ ounces of dark rum, making sure to stir well to blend the ingredients smoothly.
Step 3: Add Hot Liquid
Pour about ¾ cup of hot water into the mug, stirring until the butter mixture fully dissolves. If you prefer a creamier drink, substitute the hot water with hot milk or a milk substitute like almond milk or oat milk for added flavor.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
For an elegant finishing touch, garnish with a cinnamon stick, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nutmeg. This not only enhances the drink’s aroma but also elevates its presentation, making it more festive and inviting.
Variations
- Creamy Hot Buttered Rum: Swap out the hot water for hot milk or cream. The result is a smoother, richer drink that feels more indulgent. You can also try using almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option with a hint of nuttiness that complements the spices.
- Spiced Tea Hot Buttered Rum: For an extra layer of flavor, replace the hot water with spiced tea, such as chai. The tea adds depth and a subtle complexity to the drink, balancing the sweetness with warming spices.
- Maple Hot Buttered Rum: Substitute half of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup. The syrup brings a unique sweetness with caramel undertones that complement the dark rum and spices, creating a memorable twist.
- Citrus-Infused Buttered Rum: Add a bit of lemon or orange zest to the butter mixture. The citrus zest cuts through the richness, providing a bright note that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Simply replace the rum with apple cider or a rich, spiced herbal tea for a cozy drink everyone can enjoy. This kid-friendly version still offers the warmth and flavors of traditional Hot Buttered Rum without the alcohol.
Cooking Notes
- Choosing the Right Rum: Dark or spiced rum is recommended for Hot Buttered Rum due to its robust, complex flavor profile. Light rum can be used if it’s what you have on hand, but it may not deliver the same depth of flavor.
- Adjusting Sweetness: You can tailor the sweetness of the drink to your liking by adjusting the amount of brown sugar. A bit less sugar will yield a more balanced drink, while extra sugar makes for a more dessert-like experience.
- Storage Tips: The butter mixture can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to whip up Hot Buttered Rum quickly whenever you desire.
Serving Suggestions
Hot Buttered Rum is versatile enough to pair with various dishes or desserts, making it ideal for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or simply unwinding on a cold evening. Here are some ways to serve and enjoy it:
- With Dessert: Serve alongside holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, apple pie, or spice cake. The warm spices in Hot Buttered Rum complement these seasonal sweets perfectly.
- Savory Pairings: The richness of Hot Buttered Rum pairs surprisingly well with sharp cheeses, charcuterie boards, or savory snacks like bacon-wrapped dates. The drink’s sweetness balances the saltiness, creating a delightful contrast.
- Holiday Party Favorite: Hot Buttered Rum can be made in large batches and served as part of a festive holiday drink station. Set up a station with a thermos of hot water, mugs, a bowl of butter mixture, and garnishes like cinnamon sticks and whipped cream. Guests can serve themselves, creating their own personalized hot buttered rum drinks.
Tips
- Pre-Make the Butter Mixture: Preparing the butter mixture in advance not only saves time but also lets you serve Hot Buttered Rum whenever you want without fuss. This is especially useful if you’re hosting a holiday party.
- Serve Hot and Fresh: This drink is best enjoyed warm, as the butter mixture will solidify as it cools. Consider using a thermos or slow cooker to keep a larger batch warm for extended periods.
- Experiment with Spices: The spices in Hot Buttered Rum can be adjusted to your taste. Add a hint of cardamom for an exotic touch or a pinch of ginger for extra warmth. You can even make it spicy by adding a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Garnish with Flair: Cinnamon sticks, star anise, or freshly grated nutmeg enhance the drink’s flavor and aroma while adding a festive appearance.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 280 kcal
Protein: 0.5 g
Sodium: 10 mg
FAQs
What is the history of Hot Buttered Rum?
Hot Buttered Rum originated in colonial America, where rum was abundant and affordable. Its popularity grew as colonists adapted European recipes, adding local ingredients like molasses, spices, and butter. The drink became a holiday favorite for its comforting, warming qualities, especially in colder regions.
Can I use other types of alcohol in Hot Buttered Rum?
Yes, though rum is traditional and provides a deep, rich flavor that works well with butter and spices, other spirits like bourbon or brandy can also be used for a unique twist. Just note that the flavor profile will change depending on the spirit you choose.
Can I make a large batch of Hot Buttered Rum for a party?
Absolutely. Prepare the butter mixture in advance, then add it to a slow cooker along with hot water and rum. This way, guests can serve themselves, and the drink stays warm. Alternatively, you can provide the mixture.
Conclusion
Hot buttered rum is the perfect drink to keep you cozy during the winter months. With its indulgent combination of butter, sugar, spices, and rum, it’s as comforting as a warm blanket on a cold day. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this timeless cocktail is sure to add a touch of warmth and cheer to your night. From creamy variations to creative garnishes, hot buttered rum offers endless opportunities for customization. So, grab a mug, settle in, and sip your way to warmth and relaxation with this delicious winter treat.
Print
Hot Buttered Rum
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Butter Mixture (Enough for Multiple Servings):
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Each Serving:
- 2 tablespoons of the butter mixture
- 1½ ounces dark rum
- ¾ cup hot water or hot milk (for a creamier version)
- Optional garnish: cinnamon stick, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nutmeg
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt. Stir until smooth and well-blended. For an extra depth of flavor, add vanilla extract. Spoon the butter mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate until needed, or freeze for longer storage.
Step 2: Make the Drink
Add 2 tablespoons of the butter mixture to a heat-safe mug. Pour in 1½ ounces of dark rum, making sure to stir well to blend the ingredients smoothly.
Step 3: Add Hot Liquid
Pour about ¾ cup of hot water into the mug, stirring until the butter mixture fully dissolves. If you prefer a creamier drink, substitute the hot water with hot milk or a milk substitute like almond milk or oat milk for added flavor.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
For an elegant finishing touch, garnish with a cinnamon stick, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nutmeg. This not only enhances the drink’s aroma but also elevates its presentation, making it more festive and inviting.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Rum: Dark or spiced rum is recommended for Hot Buttered Rum due to its robust, complex flavor profile. Light rum can be used if it’s what you have on hand, but it may not deliver the same depth of flavor.
- Adjusting Sweetness: You can tailor the sweetness of the drink to your liking by adjusting the amount of brown sugar. A bit less sugar will yield a more balanced drink, while extra sugar makes for a more dessert-like experience.
- Storage Tips: The butter mixture can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to whip up Hot Buttered Rum quickly whenever you desire.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Protein: 0.5 g