Classic Hot Buttered Rum: A Warm Delight for Chilly Nights

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground cloves
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 cups dark rum
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 8 cinnamon sticks (for garnish)

Steps and instructions

  1. In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, grated nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt into the pot and stir until well combined.
  3. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the dark rum.
  4. Add the boiling water to the mixture and stir until well combined.
  5. Pour the mixture into mugs, leaving room at the top for the garnish.
  6. Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick and serve hot.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for a slightly saltier flavor.
  • Try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a richer taste.
  • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Experiment with different spices like cardamom, allspice, or ginger for a unique twist.
  • Replace the dark rum with spiced rum for a more intense flavor profile.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the rum with apple cider or apple juice.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each mug for a creamy and indulgent touch.
  • Sprinkle a dash of ground cloves or cinnamon on top of the garnish for extra aroma.

Recipe overview

This Hot Buttered Rum recipe will help you create a classic, cozy winter drink that's perfect for sipping by the fire. The beverage combines the rich flavors of dark rum and unsalted butter with the sweetness of light brown sugar and the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Once you've gathered your ingredients, the process is simple: melt the butter, blend in the sugar and spices, stir in the rum, and top it all off with boiling water. Serve your Hot Buttered Rum with a cinnamon stick garnish for a festive touch. This recipe is sure to keep you warm and satisfied on even the coldest winter nights. Enjoy your homemade Hot Buttered Rum!

Common questions

  1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, you can use salted butter if you prefer. Just be mindful of the additional saltiness it may bring to the recipe.
  2. What type of rum should I use? Dark rum works best for hot buttered rum. It adds rich flavor to the drink. However, you can also use spiced rum or a combination of dark and spiced rum for added flavor.
  3. Can I use a substitute for brown sugar? While brown sugar adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with an equal amount of granulated sugar or other sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly.
  4. Can I make hot buttered rum without alcohol? Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the rum and increasing the amount of boiling water. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or rum extract for flavor.
  5. Can I make a larger batch of hot buttered rum? Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredient quantities accordingly to make a larger batch. Keep in mind that the preparation time may increase, and you may need a larger pot for melting the butter.
  6. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the hot buttered rum mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, heat the mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm and pour into mugs.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Hot Buttered Rum, a popular winter cocktail, has a rich history tracing back to the colonial days in America. As rum was being imported from the Caribbean, it quickly became a staple ingredient in American households. During the harsh, cold winters, people created hot beverages to keep warm, and thus, the Hot Buttered Rum was born. It was traditionally made in a large pot, hung over the fire, with rum, butter, and spices. The concoction would sit, simmering and infusing the flavors together, creating a warm, soothing drink enjoyed by many.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.