Ever found yourself craving a drink that just wraps you in warmth during those bone-chilling winter evenings? That’s where my go-to, the Spiced Hot Buttered Rum, comes into play.
It’s more than just a drink for me; it’s a winter remedy for when I’m feeling under the weather or just in need of some serious coziness. Imagine the rich blend of spiced rum, butter, and aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s like a hug in a mug.
Before we get too far into the article, here are the ingredients. Scan these real quick so that you know if you have everything that you need on hand or not.
For the Butter Mixture:
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Ground cloves
- Ground ginger
For the Drink:
- Spiced rum
- Hot water
- Orange peel (for garnish)
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
This drink isn’t just for solo nights by the fireplace. It’s a hit at gatherings too, bringing friends and family together with its heartwarming charm. I’ve put a personal twist on the classic by whipping up a homemade spice mix that takes the cozy factor up a notch. Remember, the star of the show here is the Spiced Rum.
Creating this drink has become my little winter ritual. There’s something special about the process – from muddling the spices to watching the butter melt and mingle with the rum. And then comes the best part: that first sip. It’s an experience I cherish and love to share, a testament to the joy found in life’s simpler pleasures.
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients
Crafting a Spiced Hot Butter Rum doesn’t require any special ingredients beyond the spiced rum. You most likely have everything you need in your pantry, or it is an easy trip to the grocery store. This, by the way, is one of the reasons that I love this drink. Some delicious co*cktails require hard to find ingredients, not this one.
Spiced Rum: The heart of this recipe lies in its name: Spiced Rum. It’s crucial to underscore that this isn’t just any rum — not your standard white rum or even the rich, dark variety. Spiced Rum is unique; it’s imbued with its own blend of spices and flavors that set the foundation for our drink.
Unsalted butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy texture to the drink, balancing the spices and rum. Use unsalted to control the drink’s saltiness.
Brown sugar: Brown sugar provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the spiciness of the rum and the warmth of the other spices. I just don’t think that people use brown sugar often enough in co*cktails. It is a secret ingredient if you allow it to be.
Cinnamon stick (for garnish): A cinnamon stick serves as both a stirrer and a flavor enhancer, gradually releasing more cinnamon essence into the drink as it sits, adding to the sensory experience. I keep a baggie of these in the pantry.
They are cheap to keep around but provide a wow factor every darn time. People love stirring them around when drinking. It is such a lovely touch. Is it truly essential? You decide.
Ground nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, adding depth and enhancing the drink’s festive feel.
Ground cloves: Cloves bring a strong, pungent flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the rum and sugar, adding to the drink’s aromatic quality.
Ground ginger: Ginger introduces a slightly spicy and peppery note, contributing to the drink’s warmth and stimulating the palate.
Serving Suggestions
When I make Spiced Hot Buttered Rum, I love thinking about how to serve it in a way that complements the cozy flavors. Here are my go-to tips for serving up this winter favorite.
Accompaniments and Pairings
Mugs: I always serve this drink in thick, sturdy mugs that keep it warm and are comfortable to hold on cold nights. You can also serve them in sturdy glass mugs because it is a beautiful rich caramel color and that is just so gorgeous.
- Winter Pairing: Rich desserts or spicy snacks pair wonderfully with this drink. Think ginger cookies or an apple tart.
- Cider Swap: Sometimes I like to use apple cider instead of water for an extra autumnal flavor.
Presentation and Garnishes
Garnish Wisdom: I find that the right garnish not only looks impressive but also enhances the aroma and taste of the drink.
- Stick to Classic: A cinnamon stick makes for a charming, fragrant stirrer.
- Spice It Up: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top of some whipped cream is my secret for that perfect final touch.
- Extra Foamy: When I’m feeling fancy, I add a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh orange peel twist for a bright contrast. (That orange peel is for others because I am allergic. But if you CAN, I highly recommend it.)
Storing and Making Ahead
When I make a batch of butter mixture for hot buttered rum, I love knowing that I can easily store it for future use. If I’m prepping for a gathering or just looking to savor a cozy drink on demand, storing the butter mixture is a breeze.
Here’s how I do it:
- In the Refrigerator: I can keep my hot buttered rum butter mixture fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks. I make sure to place it in an airtight container to prevent absorbing other flavors.
- In the Freezer: When I want my butter mixture to last even longer, I scoop it into an ice cube tray and freeze it. Once solid, I transfer the cubes to a freezer bag, and they stay good for several months. When the mood strikes, a cube can be brought to room temp and directly melted into my warm drink!
Making Ahead:
- I often prepare my spiced hot buttered rum butter mixture a day or two before an event. It’s actually better that way because the flavors intensify, creating a richer, deeper taste in every sip.
Here’s how I handle my butter mixture:
- Mix it up according to the recipe.
- Store the butter mixture in the refrigerator or freezer, depending on how far ahead I’m preparing.
- When it’s time to serve, I simply warm up the butter mixture if it is in the fridge or melt a cube from the freezer in hot water or milk. It’s that simple and always a hit!
Tips for Best Storage:
- Always label the container or bag with the date I made the butter mixture.
- If using the freezer method, make a point to remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a deliciously spiced hot buttered rum anytime you crave that warm, comforting treat.
Spiced Hot Buttered Rum
Yield: 1 serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
This Spiced Hot Buttered Rum recipe is the perfect warming drink for cold evenings, featuring a rich blend of spiced rum, aromatic spices, and a buttery sweetness that comforts with every sip. Ideal for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Butter Mixture:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- A pinch of ground ginger
For the Drink:
- 2 oz spiced rum
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 orange peel (for garnish)
- 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mug: Preheat your mug by filling it with hot water, then discard the water to ensure your drink stays warm.
- Mix the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and a pinch of ground ginger. Mix until it forms a consistent paste. Adjust the sugar and spices according to your taste.
- Combine in Mug: Add the spiced butter mixture to the bottom of your preheated mug.
- Add Rum: Pour the 2 ounces of spiced rum over the butter mixture.
- Add Hot Water: Slowly pour 1 cup of hot water into the mug, stirring constantly until the butter mixture is fully melted and combined with the rum.
- Garnish and Serve: Twist the orange peel over the mug to release its oils, then drop it into the drink. Add a cinnamon stick for garnish. Stir gently before serving.
- Enjoy: Savor the warm, spiced flavors of your homemade hot buttered rum.
Did you make this recipe?
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