When the chilly winds of autumn start to creep in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm drink that wraps you in comfort. Picture the cozy embrace of cinnamon, butter, and a splash of dark rum, transforming an ordinary evening into something special. I stumbled upon this Hot Buttered Rum recipe during a festive gathering with friends, where laughter filled the air and the warmth of the fireplace made everything feel just right.
This Cinnamon Rum Butter Cocktail is not only a delightful treat—it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those evenings when you crave something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The blend of rich butter and spices creates an almost nostalgic aroma, inviting everyone to come together and enjoy a moment of indulgence. If you’re on the lookout for a crowd-pleaser that will have your guests talking long after the last sip, this recipe is a must-try! With just a few simple ingredients, you can serve up a drink that feels as luxurious as it tastes. Let’s dive into the warmth and comfort this cocktail has to offer!
Why will you love this Hot Buttered Rum?
Simple to Prepare: This Hot Buttered Rum comes together in mere minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or cozy nights in.
Decadent Richness: The creamy butter combined with dark rum delivers a luscious texture that warms you from the inside out.
Festive Flavor: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice add a holiday-like taste, turning any occasion into a celebration.
Customize As You Like: Top it off with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick for an extra festive flair that everyone will appreciate.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a chilly evening with friends or a cozy night at home, this cocktail is sure to impress and bring everyone together for a heartwarming experience. Enjoy it as a delightful twist on traditional drinks!
Hot Buttered Rum Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to whip up this cozy cocktail!
For the Butter Mixture
- Unsalted butter – 8 tablespoons; using unsalted allows for better control of the overall saltiness in the drink.
- Dark brown sugar – 2/3 cup packed; this gives the drink that deep, rich sweetness that perfectly complements the spices.
- Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon; a classic warming spice that enhances the cozy flavors of the Hot Buttered Rum.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon; adds a gentle sweetness and fragrant dimension to the drink.
- Freshly grated nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon plus more for sprinkling; freshly grated nutmeg has a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground.
- Ground allspice or ground cloves – 1/4 teaspoon; either spice brings a unique warmth, making the drink even more aromatic.
- Kosher salt – 1/4 teaspoon; enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
For the Cocktail
- Water – 2 cups; steaming water helps to melt the butter and blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Dark rum – 1 cup; choose a good quality dark rum to elevate the cocktail’s overall flavor.
- Whipped cream (optional) – 2 cups; a cloud of whipped cream takes this drink to the next level of indulgence.
- Cinnamon sticks – 4 (4-inch) long; perfect for stirring and adding an extra touch of flavor as they steep.
How to Make Hot Buttered Rum
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Soften Butter: Let 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter sit in a medium heatproof bowl at room temperature until softened, making it easy to blend with the sugars and spices.
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Mix Ingredients: Add 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (or ground cloves), and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and smooth—this creates a rich base for your Hot Buttered Rum.
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Boil Water: In a kettle or medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Allow the water to cool slightly for about 30 seconds, ensuring it’s hot but not actively bubbling for the next step.
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Combine: Carefully pour the hot water into the butter mixture. Then, add 1 cup of dark rum and mix with the electric mixer on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until the butter melts and the mixture becomes frothy.
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Serve: Divide the delightful concoction among 4 mugs, topping each with whipped cream if desired. Sprinkle more freshly grated nutmeg on top and garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick for that cozy touch!
Optional: For an extra festive kick, consider adding a splash of maple syrup to the mix!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Buttered Rum cocktails are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just mix the softened unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, grated nutmeg, allspice, and kosher salt as directed, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to indulge, simply combine 2 cups of hot water with the prepped butter mixture and 1 cup of dark rum. Blend until frothy, pour into mugs, and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warm, festive treat that feels just as delightful as freshly made!
Expert Tips for Hot Buttered Rum
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Butter Softening: Let your butter come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture in your Hot Buttered Rum without any lumps.
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Fresh Spices: Always opt for freshly grated nutmeg and freshly ground cinnamon for the best flavor. Pre-ground spices can dull the drink’s deliciousness!
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Right Water Temperature: Cool your boiling water slightly before adding it to the butter mixture. Water that’s too hot can separate the ingredients instead of blending them smoothly.
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Quality Rum: Use a good-quality dark rum to enhance the flavor profile. Cheap rum can result in a harsh taste that overshadows the other warm spices.
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Whipped Cream Woes: If you decide to add whipped cream, opt for freshly whipped, as store-bought can sometimes collapse. This ensures your drink looks as good as it tastes!
Hot Buttered Rum Variations
Feel free to swap or add ingredients to craft your perfect Cozy Drink experience!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut oil for butter to create a plant-based version, maintaining that decadent richness.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful kick that pairs beautifully with the warm spices in your drink.
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Maple Sweetness: Swap out dark brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a uniquely sweet and earthy flavor. It’s like fall in a mug!
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Chai Twist: Use chai spices instead of the traditional ones (like cardamom and ginger) for a flavor journey that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Fruit Infusion: Stir in a splash of apple cider for a fruity twist that enhances the cozy autumn vibe everyone loves. You’ll feel like you’re at a pumpkin patch!
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Nutty Flavor: Add a tablespoon of almond or hazelnut liqueur to deepen the richness and introduce a lovely nutty note.
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Vegan: Use a plant-based whipped cream alternative instead of dairy cream on top, ensuring everyone can indulge in the coziness.
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Cinnamon Syrup Touch: Experiment with cinnamon syrup instead of brown sugar for an extra punch of cinnamon flavor that truly elevates the drink experience.
Let your creativity flow and enjoy crafting your own version of this classic drink!
What to Serve with Hot Buttered Rum?
When you’re ready to unwind with a comforting cocktail, consider pairing it with delightful options that elevate your cozy experience.
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Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices in gingerbread cookies mirror those in the cocktail, creating a harmonious holiday flavor profile that delights.
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Cheddar Bites: Crispy, cheesy goodness makes the perfect salty contrast to the sweet, buttery richness of the drink.
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Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of sweetness adds a crunchy texture that complements the smooth cocktail beautifully.
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Pumpkin Soup: Creamy pumpkin soup brings warmth and a savory note to balance the sweetness, embracing the cozy vibes of a chilly evening.
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Warm Apple Crisp: This dessert’s cinnamon-infused apples and buttery topping pair perfectly, giving a sweet end to the meal that echoes the cocktail’s flavors.
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Red Wine: A glass of rich, velvety red wine can introduce deep fruit flavors that dance alongside the spices in your Hot Buttered Rum.
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Chocolate Fondue: Indulge in a luscious chocolate fondue with fresh fruits; the richness of chocolate will blend seamlessly with the buttery cocktail for a decadent treat.
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Maple Glazed Ham: For a savory option, the sweetness of a maple-glazed ham brings a festive flair that pairs wonderfully with the warm spices of your drink.
How to Store and Freeze Hot Buttered Rum
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash more rum for flavor.
Freezer: While not recommended for freezing, if you must, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating: Always reheat slowly to avoid separating the butter. Stir well before serving to restore that frothy texture of your Hot Buttered Rum.
Cinnamon Rum Butter Cocktail Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the Cinnamon Rum Butter Cocktail?
Absolutely! For the best flavors, ensure your spices are fresh. Buy ground cinnamon and allspice from a reputable source, and if possible, invest in whole nutmeg—grating it fresh releases its lively aroma. The butter should be unsalted but fresh; check for any off odors or discoloration.
How should I store any leftovers of the cocktail?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the mixture on the stove or in the microwave. To restore flavors, consider adding a splash of dark rum while reheating!
Can I freeze the Cinnamon Rum Butter Cocktail?
If you need to freeze it, place the mixture in an airtight container, and it can last up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture can alter upon thawing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it slowly, stirring well to bring back its frothy quality.
What should I do if my cocktail isn’t frothy enough?
Very! If your cocktail isn’t frothy after mixing, it could be due to the water temperature being too hot. Make sure to let the boiling water sit for about 30 seconds before pouring it into your butter mixture. If the butter isn’t melting well, you can mix in a little more hot water gradually until you achieve that desired frothy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Indeed! This Cinnamon Rum Butter Cocktail contains butter which is not suitable for dairy-free diets. For dairy-free alternatives, you might try using coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, although it could change the flavor profile slightly. Always ensure that the dark rum and any other packaged ingredients are free of allergens relevant to your guests.
Can I use different types of rum for this cocktail?
Absolutely! While dark rum packs in rich flavors that complement the spices beautifully, you can also experiment with spiced rum or even a light rum for a slightly different taste. Each type will add its unique twist, allowing you to customize your Hot Buttered Rum experience!
Cozy Up with Hot Buttered Rum for Chilly Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let butter sit in a medium heatproof bowl at room temperature until softened.
- Add sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Beat on high speed for 2 minutes until fluffy.
- Boil 2 cups of water and allow to cool slightly.
- Pour hot water into butter mixture, add dark rum, and mix on medium speed until frothy.
- Divide among 4 mugs, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg. Garnish with cinnamon sticks.