Classic Hot Buttered Rum to Warm You Up on a Cold Day

What kind of recipe is it?

Hot Buttered Rum is a warm, comforting drink that beautifully blends the rich flavors of dark rum, butter, brown sugar, and spices.

This indulgent beverage is perfect for chilly evenings, making it a favorite during winter holidays and cozy gatherings.

Its creamy texture and aromatic spices provide a unique twist on traditional warm cocktails, enticing both novice and seasoned mixologists.

Ideal for those seeking a soothing treat, Hot Buttered Rum is a delightful option for anyone looking to elevate their winter drink repertoire.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Dark Rum	2 ounces
Unsalted Butter	1 tablespoon
Brown Sugar	1 tablespoon (packed)
Hot Water	6 ounces
Ground Cinnamon	1/4 teaspoon
Ground Nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon
Vanilla Extract	1/4 teaspoon
Whipped Cream (for garnish, optional)	As desired
Cinnamon Stick (for garnish, optional)	1 stick

This table outlines the essential ingredients and their corresponding quantities needed to prepare a classic Hot Buttered Rum. Adjusting the amounts slightly can help suit personal preferences or the number of servings desired.

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Cooking Steps

Gather all ingredients to guarantee you have everything ready (dark rum, unsalted butter, brown sugar, hot water, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, whipped cream, and cinnamon stick).
In a medium heatproof mug or glass (approximately 240 ml/8 oz capacity), combine 1 tablespoon (packed) of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
Using a spoon, stir the butter and sugar together until they form a smooth paste; this should take about 1 minute.
Heat 180 ml (6 oz) of water in a kettle or saucepan until it reaches just below boiling, approximately 82°C (180°F).
Carefully pour the hot water into the mug containing the butter-sugar mixture, stirring continuously until the sugar and butter have dissolved completely—this should take about 1-2 minutes.
Add 2 ounces (60 ml) of dark rum, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the mug, stirring well to integrate all ingredients.
Taste and adjust sweetness or spices if desired (substituting with additional sugar, cinnamon, or nutmeg as per preference).
If adding whipped cream for garnish, allow the drink to cool slightly for about 1 minute before topping with whipped cream, ensuring it sits on top without melting immediately.
For a decorative touch, place a cinnamon stick in the drink or on the rim of the mug.
Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the warm aroma and rich, creamy texture.

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Variations

Spiced Apple Hot Buttered Rum: Add 30 ml (1 oz) of apple cider and replace nutmeg with allspice for a warm, autumn-inspired flavor.
Vegan Hot Buttered Rum: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use coconut cream as a garnish to create a dairy-free version.
Cinnamon Maple Hot Buttered Rum: Use 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of maple syrup instead of brown sugar and increase cinnamon to 1/2 teaspoon for a sweeter, spiced variation.
Chocolate Hot Buttered Rum: Mix in 1 tablespoon (15 g) of cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey twist, and optionally, a splash of peppermint extract for a festive touch.

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Tips on plating and presentation

When serving hot buttered rum, a little attention to presentation can elevate the experience.

I love using clear mugs to showcase the rich color and frothy top. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg not only enhances the aroma but also brings visual appeal.

Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for a festive touch that invites everyone to indulge.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

Hot buttered rum pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.

I love serving it alongside rich and savory foods like roasted meats or creamy soups.

It also complements sweet treats, especially spiced desserts like gingerbread or pecan pie.

These pairings create a warm atmosphere and elevate your dining experience while enjoying this cozy drink.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

Although I often enjoy hot buttered rum on its own, it can also shine alongside other drinks for a well-rounded experience.

I’ve found it pairs beautifully with spiced cider or a rich, dark stout.

For a lighter option, a crisp, dry apple champagne offers a revitalizing contrast.

Each choice enhances the warm flavors, making my drink journey even more delightful.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Hot Buttered Rum in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely, I can make hot buttered rum in a slow cooker! I combine the ingredients, set it on low, and let it warm up. It’s perfect for serving a crowd during chilly evenings. Enjoy!

What Alcohol Can I Substitute for Rum?

You can substitute bourbon or whiskey for rum in hot buttered rum. I’ve tried both, and they add a rich flavor that’s equally comforting. Just adjust the sweetness to match your taste preference! Enjoy!

How Long Can I Store Leftover Hot Buttered Rum?

I usually store leftover hot buttered rum in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to reheat it gently before enjoying again; the flavors will meld beautifully, creating a cozy treat!

Is There a Non-Alcoholic Version of Hot Buttered Rum?

I love making a non-alcoholic version by mixing warm apple cider, butter, spices, and a touch of vanilla. It’s cozy, delicious, and perfect for enjoying without the alcohol, especially during chilly nights!

Can I Use Dairy-Free Butter for This Recipe?

Absolutely, I’ve used dairy-free butter in my recipes before, and it works great! Just guarantee it melts well with the other ingredients, and you’ll still enjoy that rich, creamy flavor without any dairy.