Introduction
When the temperatures drop and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like a Hot Buttered Rum to warm your spirits. This rich and creamy winter cocktail is a blend of spiced butter, dark rum, and hot water or cider, creating a comforting drink that feels like a warm hug in a mug. Perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire, this classic drink is a must-try for the chilly season.
Ingredients
For the Spiced Butter Mix:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- A pinch of salt
For the Drink (Per Serving):
- 2 oz dark rum
- ½ cup hot water or hot apple cider
- 1 heaping tablespoon of the spiced butter mix
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spiced Butter Mix
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth. Transfer to a container, cover, and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes).
- Assemble the Drink
- In a heatproof mug, add 1 heaping tablespoon of the spiced butter mix.
- Add Rum and Hot Water
- Pour in the dark rum and hot water (or hot apple cider). Stir until the spiced butter mix dissolves completely.
- Garnish and Serve
- Top with whipped cream if desired, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of nutmeg. Serve immediately.
Description
Hot Buttered Rum is the quintessential winter cocktail, offering a perfect balance of warmth, sweetness, and spice. The spiced butter mix adds a luxurious creaminess, while the dark rum provides a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the cozy spices.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the spiced butter mix in advance?
A: Yes! The mix can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Q: Can I use spiced rum instead of dark rum?
A: Absolutely! Spiced rum adds extra layers of flavor, enhancing the drink’s warmth and complexity.
Q: What can I substitute for hot water?
A: Hot apple cider or hot milk are excellent substitutes, adding a unique twist to the drink.
Q: Is there a non-alcoholic version?
A: Replace the rum with hot apple juice or spiced tea for a comforting, alcohol-free version.
Recommendations
- For a crowd, prepare a batch of the spiced butter mix and set up a Hot Buttered Rum station with rum and hot water.
- Pair this cocktail with gingerbread cookies or spiced nuts for a delightful winter treat.
- Experiment with flavored rums like vanilla or coconut for a creative twist.
Conclusion
Hot Buttered Rum is the perfect cocktail to embrace the season’s warmth and coziness. Easy to make and endlessly comforting, it’s a drink that brings people together and soothes the soul. Whether you’re relaxing solo or entertaining guests, this classic winter beverage is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Cheers to staying warm and festive!