Hot buttered rum is that magical drink that warms your soul and makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a fluffy blanket on a chilly winter night. It’s the kind of beverage that, with every sip, transports you to a cozy cabin in the woods, where the scent of cinnamon and vanilla dances in the air. Picture this: snowflakes gently falling outside while you curl up next to the fireplace, a steaming mug of hot buttered rum cradled in your hands. Pure bliss, right? This delectable concoction is not just a drink; it’s a hug in liquid form!

Now, imagine sharing this delightful experience with friends and family during a festive gathering or after a long day at work. Hot buttered rum is perfect for holiday parties, cozy evenings, or simply when you need to treat yourself. I remember one particular holiday season when I made this for my friends, and let me tell you, their faces lit up as soon as they took that first sip. It was like magic! The rich flavors of buttery goodness combined with spiced rum is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This hot buttered rum recipe boasts effortless preparation and delivers rich flavors that will warm your heart
- Customizable to suit your taste buds, it can be made as strong or mild as you prefer
- The inviting aroma fills the room, making it visually appealing and perfect for gatherings
- Ideal for holiday celebrations or cozy nights in, this drink brings everyone together around the fireplace
I once served hot buttered rum at a party where my friends were skeptical at first but ended up asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious drink:
Spiced Rum: A good quality spiced rum will elevate your drink; choose one that has warm notes of vanilla and cinnamon.
Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for richness; it blends seamlessly into the drink.
Brown Sugar: Opt for dark brown sugar for deeper flavor; it adds caramel notes that enhance the overall taste.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth; fresh sticks can also be used for garnishing.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a comforting sweetness; avoid imitation varieties for better flavor.
Hot Water: Use boiling water to blend everything smoothly; ensure it’s freshly boiled for perfect results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Butter Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until creamy and well-blended. You want it to look like sweet whipped clouds.
Add Spiced Rum: Stir in your spiced rum into the butter mixture thoroughly while imagining yourself lounging on a tropical beach—because why not?
Heat Your Water: Boil water until it’s bubbling hot; carefully pour it into your mug over the mixture. This step transforms your concoction into liquid gold.
Mix Everything Together: Using a spoon, stir vigorously until all ingredients are fully combined and frothy like sweet dreams. Let those aromas fill your kitchen!
Garnish and Serve: Top with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or add a cinnamon stick if feeling fancy. Serve immediately while it’s hot enough to warm chilly fingers.
Sip and Enjoy!: Take a moment to inhale deeply before sipping—this drink is all about savoring every delightful note!
Now you’re ready to impress all your friends with this cozy classic! Enjoy each warming sip of your homemade hot buttered rum!
You Must Know
- The perfect hot buttered rum is not just a drink; it’s a cozy hug in a mug
- With the right spices and quality rum, you’ll create an aromatic masterpiece that warms both body and soul
- This recipe is sure to impress friends and family, making every gathering memorable
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting butter and mixing it with the sugar and spices before adding rum and hot water. This ensures all flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap dark rum for spiced or even coconut rum for a tropical twist. Adding whipped cream on top can elevate your drink further.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little more butter if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality rum for richer flavor; it truly makes a difference in this simple recipe
- Don’t rush the heating process; slow heating enhances flavors while avoiding scalding
- Always taste as you go; adjust sweetness according to your preference for a personal touch
Sharing my first experience with hot buttered rum brings back memories of a winter gathering where my friends were skeptical at first but left raving about it all night.

FAQ
What type of rum is best for hot buttered rum?
Using dark or spiced rum enhances the flavor profile of your hot buttered rum.
Can I make hot buttered rum ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mixture in advance, then heat it up when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of hot buttered rum?
Absolutely! Replace the rum with apple cider or warm vanilla milk for a tasty alternative.

Hot Buttered Rum
Hot buttered rum is the quintessential winter drink that wraps you in warmth and comfort. With the rich flavors of spiced rum, creamy butter, and fragrant spices, each sip evokes memories of cozy gatherings by the fireplace. Perfect for holiday celebrations or for simply unwinding after a long day, this delightful beverage is sure to impress your friends and family, making every occasion special.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup spiced rum
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until creamy.
- Stir in spiced rum until well combined.
- Boil water until bubbling hot; pour over the butter mixture in your mug.
- Stir vigorously until fully blended and frothy.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (240ml)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg






