When the nights grow colder and the holidays roll around, few drinks can match the rich, warming comfort of a Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail. This cozy classic combines dark rum, aromatic spices, creamy butter, and a touch of sweetness, creating a drink that’s smooth, indulgent, and festive. Traditionally enjoyed by the fire during the winter months, this cocktail is the ultimate holiday indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, relaxing after dinner, or simply craving a decadent warm drink, this recipe is guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite.
Table of Contents
Why make this Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail?
- Classic Comfort: A beloved holiday tradition with timeless flavors.
- Rich & Indulgent: The butter adds a silky creaminess you won’t find in other cocktails.
- Easy to Make: A few simple ingredients create an unforgettable drink.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or cozy nights by the fire.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, spice level, or rum to your taste.
Why will you love this Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail?
- Festive Aroma: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves make your home smell like the holidays.
- Smooth & Creamy: The butter melts into the rum for a luxurious texture.
- Cozy & Comforting: Perfect for warming up on cold nights.
- Impressive but Easy: Looks and tastes like a professional cocktail, but is simple to prepare.
How to make Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail?
Ingredients:
- 2 oz dark rum
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- 1 cup hot water (or hot apple cider for extra flavor)
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Directions:
- In a mug, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix into a spiced paste.
- Pour in dark rum and stir well to combine.
- Slowly add hot water (or hot apple cider), stirring until the butter fully melts.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve immediately.
How to serve Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail?
Serve in heatproof mugs or clear glass mugs to showcase the golden-brown drink. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for stirring and a dusting of nutmeg for extra warmth. For a festive presentation, pair with holiday cookies, gingerbread, or spiced nuts.
The Best Way To Store Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail
The cocktail itself should be made fresh, but you can prepare the spiced butter mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. When ready to serve, simply add a spoonful of the mixture to hot water and rum for a quick and easy cocktail.
Tips to make Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail
- Use Dark Rum: It provides a deep, rich flavor compared to light rum.
- Make a Butter Batter: Prepare a larger batch of spiced butter to have on hand for quick cocktails.
- Sweetness Control: Adjust the brown sugar to your preference.
- Extra Flavor: Substitute hot apple cider instead of water for a fruitier version.
- Presentation Upgrade: Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Nutritional Benefits :
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Alcohol Content | Moderate (1 serving) |
| Vitamin A | 8% DV |
While this cocktail is indulgent, the spices provide warming antioxidants and a festive aroma.
Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail
Equipment
- heatproof mug
- Spoon for mixing butter and spices
- kettle or saucepan to heat water or cider
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 oz dark rum
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- 1 cup hot water or hot apple cider
- 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a mug, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix into a spiced paste.
- Pour in the dark rum and stir well to combine with the butter mixture.
- Slowly add hot water (or hot apple cider), stirring until the butter fully melts and the drink is smooth.
- Top with whipped cream if desired. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Variations
- Vanilla Hot Buttered Rum: Add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweet twist.
- Coconut Hot Buttered Rum: Use coconut sugar and add a dash of coconut milk for tropical flair.
- Spiced Cider Hot Buttered Rum: Replace water with apple cider for a fruity holiday drink.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Omit rum and enjoy a spiced buttered cider for a family-friendly treat.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the butter mixture in advance?
Yes! Prepare a batch and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just add hot water and rum when serving.
Q2: Can I use spiced rum instead of dark rum?
Absolutely! Spiced rum enhances the holiday flavors.
Q3: Can this cocktail be made dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute vegan butter and it will still be creamy and delicious.
Q4: What food pairs well with this cocktail?
It pairs beautifully with gingerbread, spiced cookies, or roasted nuts.
Conclusion
This Spiced Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail is the definition of cozy holiday indulgence. Smooth, warming, and bursting with festive flavors, it’s perfect for sipping by the fire, sharing with friends, or treating yourself after a long day. Easy to make yet deeply comforting, this cocktail will quickly become a holiday tradition in your home.