Hello, fellow flavor seekers! I’m Savannah Rose from JustFlowe Blog. There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm drink on a chilly evening, and Hot Buttered Rum is the perfect embodiment of that feeling. For my family, it’s more than just a beverage; it’s a tradition that brings us together, sharing stories and laughter around the fireplace. I’ve spent years perfecting my recipe, tweaking spices and adjusting sweetness until it became a beloved part of our winter gatherings.
The first time I tried making Hot Buttered Rum, I was intimidated by the idea of creating a “batter” for a drink. But, with a little experimentation and a lot of love, I discovered that it’s actually quite simple. The secret, I learned, lies in the quality of the ingredients and the balance of flavors. I remember one holiday season when I was determined to create the perfect Hot Buttered Rum. I tried different spices, different types of rum, and various sweeteners until I finally landed on a combination that made everyone’s eyes light up.
It’s amazing how certain flavors can transport you back to cherished memories. For us, the aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cloves simmering with butter and rum instantly evokes feelings of warmth and togetherness. It’s a flavor journey that resonates deeply with our family. This Hot Buttered Rum recipe is my way of sharing that joy with you. I invite you to join me in creating this heartwarming drink, a true testament to the power of authentic flavors in bringing families closer. I hope that it brings as much joy and warmth to your family as it has to mine!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this cozy winter drink. The quality of your ingredients will make a big difference in the final taste, so choose wisely!

- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: For the best flavor in your Hot Buttered Rum, I recommend using high-quality butter.
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar: This adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness.
- 1/2 cup honey: The honey enhances the sweetness and provides a smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup molasses: Molasses adds a depth of flavor that’s simply irreplaceable.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Cinnamon brings warmth and a touch of spice.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a cozy, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Cloves provide a warm, aromatic spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice: Allspice adds complexity with its blend of flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma and flavor.
- Dark rum: Choose a good quality dark rum for the best flavor; my family enjoys using Goslings Black Seal Rum.
- Hot water: To mix with the hot buttered rum batter for a smooth drink.
Trust me, this Hot Buttered Rum ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors! You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this holiday rum recipe at your local farmer’s market or specialty spice shop. And here’s an Hot Buttered Rum flavor secret that transformed our family dinners: a tiny pinch of cardamom to deepen those spice notes.
Let’s Create This Together!
Now, let’s get to the fun part: making the Hot Buttered Rum. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, heartwarming drink in no time.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, honey, and molasses until smooth and well combined. This is where the magic starts! Make sure your butter is properly softened; otherwise, you will have lumps in your finished creamy rum beverage.
- Add the spices: Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. The aroma at this point is simply divine! Don’t be surprised if your Hot Buttered Rum batter develops a rich, dark color—that’s the molasses and spices doing their thing.
- Incorporate the vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a touch of sweetness and enhances all the other flavors. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Hot Buttered Rum – adding the vanilla at the end really makes a difference!
- Transfer to an airtight container: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This hot buttered rum batter can be made ahead of time and stored for up to a week. In my kitchen, this flavorful Hot Buttered Rum typically takes about 15 minutes to prepare the batter, but the flavor payoff is huge!
- Prepare your mug: When you’re ready to make a drink, place 2-3 tablespoons of the hot buttered rum batter in a mug. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
- Add the rum: Pour in 2 ounces of dark rum. Adjust the amount of rum to your liking. My family loves when I add a bit more rum for an extra kick to our Hot Buttered Rum!
- Top with hot water: Fill the mug with hot water and stir until the batter is completely dissolved. Your Hot Buttered Rum should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy! While your Hot Buttered Rum is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!
How We Love to Enjoy This!
This Hot Buttered Rum is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few of our family’s favorite serving suggestions.
- Classic Comfort: Simply served warm in a mug, sipped slowly by the fireplace on a cold winter evening. The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Hot Buttered Rum appears with warm cookies!
- Holiday Gatherings: Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any festive occasion. It’s a great way to warm up your guests and create a cozy atmosphere. We serve our spiced rum cocktail after dinner, with a slice of apple pie.
- With Dessert: Pair it with a slice of apple pie, gingerbread, or any other warm, comforting dessert. The spices in the Hot Buttered Rum complement these desserts perfectly. This Hot Buttered Rum is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying!
- Leftover Transformation: Use any leftover hot buttered rum batter to flavor your morning coffee or tea. It adds a touch of sweetness and spice that’s simply irresistible.
- Seasonal Variations: In the fall, add a splash of apple cider for an extra layer of flavor. In the summer, try serving it over ice for a refreshing twist. My husband loves when I make it this way!
The best part about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Feel free to adjust the spices and sweetness to suit your family’s preferences.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are some common questions that I get asked about making Hot Buttered Rum. I hope these answers help you in your kitchen adventures!
Does this Hot Buttered Rum really satisfy hearty appetites?
Absolutely! The combination of butter, sugar, and spices creates a rich, comforting drink that’s perfect for those cold winter nights. It’s a great way to warm up and feel satisfied.
What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Hot Buttered Rum?
No problem! Simply reduce the amount of spices, especially the cloves and allspice. You can also use a lighter rum or add a splash of milk or cream to mellow out the flavors.
How can I prepare this Hot Buttered Rum ahead for busy weeks?
The hot buttered rum batter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it easy to whip up a quick and comforting drink whenever you need it. I often make a big batch on the weekend so we can enjoy it throughout the week.
Can I use a different type of rum?
Yes, you can use any type of rum you like. Dark rum adds a rich, molasses-like flavor, while spiced rum adds an extra layer of spice. White rum will give you a milder flavor. Experiment and see what your family prefers!
Is there a non-alcoholic version of this drink?
Yes! You can easily make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the rum and adding a splash of rum extract or non-alcoholic rum flavoring. You can also use apple cider or ginger ale in place of the rum for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftover hot buttered rum batter?
Store the leftover hot buttered rum batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and flavors. Some popular additions include cardamom, ginger, orange zest, and maple syrup. Let your creativity shine!
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
This Hot Buttered Rum is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. It supports my family’s authentic meal goals by providing a delicious and heartwarming way to connect and create memories. This winter warmer drink has become a staple in our home, and I hope it becomes one in yours too.

My Hot Buttered Rum Flavor Secrets:
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality butter, spices, and rum makes a huge difference in the final flavor.
- Balance of Flavors: Finding the right balance of sweetness, spice, and rum is key to creating the perfect cup.
- Make it Ahead: Preparing the batter ahead of time makes it easy to enjoy this drink any time you want.
Family-Tested Hot Buttered Rum Variations:
- Apple Cider Twist: Add a splash of apple cider for a fall-inspired flavor.
- Spiced Rum Kick: Use spiced rum for an extra layer of spice.
- Creamy Dream: Add a splash of milk or cream for a richer, creamier drink.
My son, Timmy, prefers the creamy version, while my daughter, Sarah, loves the apple cider twist. I encourage you to make this recipe your own and create a signature version that your family will love.
I hope this recipe brings as much joy and warmth to your family as it has to mine. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting, having fun, and creating memories. So, go ahead and make this Hot Buttered Rum your own, and enjoy the process! Cheers to many flavorful victories in your kitchen! For another recipe, explore Tuscan Chickpea Soup, it’s a great way to bring warmth to your family. Have fun searching for the perfect rum! Here is another recipe Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, to keep you warm in the Winter. Here is a Hot Buttered Rum Recipe for New England Chills, to try, and maybe it will become a new family favorite. Here is Apple Cider Cheesecake for an apple desert to enjoy with your Hot Buttered Rum. For more ideas check out “I bet you already have the ingredients to make Hot Buttered Rum! : r …”. This warm winter cocktail is similar to this “Hot buttered rum recipe with brown sugar and spices”, which sounds delicious.
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Hot Buttered Rum
Warm up on a chilly evening with this classic Hot Buttered Rum. A rich and comforting blend of spices, butter, rum, and hot water, it’s the perfect cozy cocktail.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Drinks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- 2 ounces dark rum
- 1 cup boiling water
- Optional: Whipped cream and cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined. This is your buttered rum batter.
- Place 2 tablespoons of the buttered rum batter into a mug.
- Pour the dark rum into the mug.
- Top with boiling water and stir until the buttered rum batter is melted and the drink is well combined.
- Optional: Garnish with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the buttered rum batter. You can also make a large batch of the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

