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Hot Buttered Rum
About this recipe
Hot Buttered Rum is a beloved winter warmer that traces its roots back to colonial America, where it became a staple during harsh New England winters. This comforting cocktail traditionally combines rum with butter, spices, and hot water or cider, creating a rich, soul-warming drink that's perfect for snowy evenings by the fireplace. The addition of butter might seem unusual to modern drinkers, but it creates an incredibly luxurious mouthfeel and adds a subtle richness that perfectly balances the rum's bite. What makes this version truly special is the ingenious butter batter that incorporates vanilla ice cream and aromatic cinnamon, creating a creamy, spiced base that melts beautifully into the hot cider. The apple cider adds natural sweetness and fall flavors that complement the rum perfectly, while the make-ahead batter means you can have this cozy cocktail ready in minutes when guests arrive. This isn't just a drink – it's liquid comfort food that transforms any chilly evening into a warm, memorable experience.
Why you'll love this
- ✓ **Make-ahead convenience** - The butter batter can be prepared days in advance and stored in the freezer, making it perfect for entertaining
- ✓ **Luxurious texture** - The combination of butter and vanilla ice cream creates an incredibly rich, creamy mouthfeel that's pure indulgence
- ✓ **Perfect balance** - Apple cider adds natural sweetness and complexity that perfectly complements the warmth of rum and spices
- ✓ **Customizable strength** - Easy to adjust the rum content for different preferences, from a light warming drink to a stronger cocktail
Photo 1 of 3
Photo 1 of 3Ingredients
- 4Tbsp. butter, softened
- 3Tbsp. packed brown sugar
- 0.5cup vanillaice cream, softened
- 0.5tsp. ground cinnamon
- 2cups applecider
- 1cuprumDark or spiced rum works best, though golden rum is also excellent. Avoid white rum as it lacks the depth needed for this cocktail.
Step-by-step instructions
In a mixing bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in ice cream and cinnamon, then spoon into a mason jar or resealable container. Store in freezer until mostly hardened, about 2 hours or until ready to serve.
In a medium saucepan, heat cider until boiling, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and pour into a pitcher or easy-to-serve container.
Place about 2 tablespoons of buttered rum batter into each mug. Fill about 1/3 of the way up with rum, then top with hot apple cider. Stir before serving.
Photo 2 of 3
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Chef's tips
rum
Dark or spiced rum works best, though golden rum is also excellent. Avoid white rum as it lacks the depth needed for this cocktail.
butter
Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. European-style butter with higher fat content will create an even richer batter.
apple cider
Fresh, unfiltered apple cider provides the best flavor. Avoid apple juice as it's too sweet and lacks complexity.
brown sugar
Dark brown sugar adds more molasses flavor than light brown, but either works. Packed measurement is key for proper sweetness.
vanilla ice cream
Premium vanilla ice cream makes a noticeable difference. Avoid low-fat versions as the fat content is crucial for texture.
Variations & substitutions
- VeganReplace butter with vegan butter and use coconut milk ice cream. The result is just as creamy and delicious.
- Gluten-freeThis recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your rum and ice cream labels to be certain.
- Less sweetReduce brown sugar to 2 tablespoons and use unsweetened apple cider for a more tart, adult flavor profile.
- UpgradeUse aged rum, add a splash of bourbon, fresh grated nutmeg, and garnish with a candied orange peel.
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Photo 3 of 3Storage & shelf life
🍽️ How to serve
Serve Hot Buttered Rum immediately in warmed ceramic mugs or heat-proof glass mugs to maintain the perfect drinking temperature. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for stirring and a light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an aromatic finish. Pair with holiday cookies, spiced nuts, or a cheese and charcuterie board for the ultimate winter entertaining experience.
Hot Buttered Rum
A cozy winter cocktail featuring a rich, spiced butter and ice cream batter mixed with hot apple cider and rum.
Ingredients
For 8 servings
- 4Tbsp. butter, softened
- 3Tbsp. packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vanillaice cream, softened
- 1/2tsp. ground cinnamon
- 2 cups applecider
- 1 cuprum
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in ice cream and cinnamon, then spoon into a mason jar or resealable container. Store in freezer until mostly hardened, about 2 hours or until ready to serve.
In a medium saucepan, heat cider until boiling, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and pour into a pitcher or easy-to-serve container.
Place about 2 tablespoons of buttered rum batter into each mug. Fill about 1/3 of the way up with rum, then top with hot apple cider. Stir before serving.
Frequently asked questions
Generated by SavoriNutrition per serving
Ready to cook this recipe?
Follow along step by step — hands-free cook mode with timers.