Hot Buttered Rum

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hot Buttered Rum is pure comfort in a mug—sweet, spiced, and buttery with just the right kick of warmth from the rum. It’s easy to make, feels indulgent, and can be customized with your favorite spices or sweetness level. The combination of brown sugar, butter, and spices gives it a caramel-like flavor that makes this classic winter drink irresistible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Dark or spiced rum
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground cloves (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• Boiling water or hot apple cider
• Cinnamon stick or orange peel (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until it forms a smooth paste.
2. Place about 1–2 tablespoons of the butter mixture into a heatproof mug.
3. Pour in the rum and fill the mug with boiling water or hot apple cider.
4. Stir well until the butter mixture is melted and evenly combined.
5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange peel, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, spiced aroma.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 serving.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the rum and use hot apple cider or spiced tea instead for a cozy mocktail.
• Vanilla Buttered Rum: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the butter mixture for a sweet, smooth twist.
• Spiced Butter Base: Make a larger batch of the butter-sugar mixture and store it in the fridge for quick drinks anytime.
• Coconut Buttered Rum: Use coconut oil or coconut butter instead of regular butter for a tropical variation.
• Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

The spiced butter mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, place a spoonful in a mug, add rum and hot water, and stir until melted. Avoid reheating the prepared drink, as the butter can separate—always mix it fresh for best results.

FAQs

What kind of rum works best?

Dark or spiced rum gives the best flavor depth, but light rum can be used for a milder version.

Can I make it without alcohol?

Yes, use hot apple cider or spiced tea for a non-alcoholic alternative that’s just as cozy.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt to keep the balance of flavors.

What’s the best sweetener to use?

Brown sugar adds a rich, molasses-like flavor, but maple syrup or honey can also work.

Can I make a big batch for a party?

Definitely—mix a larger amount of the butter base and keep it chilled, then add hot water and rum to individual mugs as needed.

Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Try adding cardamom, allspice, or even a pinch of ginger for extra warmth.

Can I prepare the butter mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it days in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

Can I make this drink creamy?

Yes, stir in a little cream or top with whipped cream for added richness.

What’s the difference between Hot Buttered Rum and Hot Toddy?

Hot Buttered Rum uses butter and brown sugar, while a Hot Toddy is typically made with whiskey, honey, and lemon.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Of course! Add more or less brown sugar or honey to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Hot Buttered Rum is the ultimate winter indulgence—a rich, aromatic blend of butter, brown sugar, spices, and rum that warms you from the inside out. Whether served during the holidays or as a cozy nightcap, this timeless drink brings both comfort and sophistication to your mug. Each sip feels like a celebration of warmth, flavor, and relaxation.

Hot Buttered Rum

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Hot Buttered Rum is a classic winter cocktail made with dark rum, brown sugar, butter, and warm spices. Rich, smooth, and aromatic, it’s the perfect cozy drink for cold nights or festive gatherings, offering comforting sweetness and a touch of warmth in every sip.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving
• Category: Cocktail
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tsp brown sugar
• 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup boiling water or hot apple cider
• Cinnamon stick or orange peel (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth.
2. Place 1–2 tablespoons of the butter mixture in a heatproof mug.
3. Pour in the rum and fill the mug with boiling water or hot apple cider.
4. Stir until the butter mixture melts and the drink is well combined.
5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange peel, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

• Dark or spiced rum adds depth of flavor—use your favorite variety.
• For a non-alcoholic version, replace rum with hot apple cider or spiced tea.
• Make extra butter mixture and store it in the fridge for quick drinks anytime.
• Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar.
• Add cream or whipped cream for a richer, dessert-like drink.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 mug
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg