Hot Buttered Rum
This old-fashioned Hot Buttered Rum is rich, gently spiced, and wonderfully warming, exactly what a winter gathering calls for. It’s quick to whip up, easy on the budget, and feels far more special than the effort it takes. Perfect for a quiet night in or as the star of a holiday drink bar.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time5 minutes mins
Total Time15 minutes mins
Course: Beverages, Dessert, Drinks
Cuisine: American, Holiday Classic
Servings: 4 mugs
Calories: 508kcal
Cost: $6–$9
- 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup spiced rum
- 2 cups boiling water
- 4 cinnamon sticks for garnish
In a medium bowl, beat the brown sugar, butter, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Transfer the spiced butter mixture to a large heatproof measuring cup or pitcher.
Stir in the rum, then carefully add the boiling water, stirring until everything is fully melted and blended.
Ladle into four mugs, garnish each with a cinnamon stick, and serve immediately while it’s hot and comforting.
Want to serve a crowd? Double the recipe and keep it warm in a slow cooker on LOW.
For a lighter version, use 1% milk in place of some of the boiling water for a creamier, less boozy sip.
Skip the alcohol and replace the rum with vanilla tea or apple cider for a family-friendly option.
This drink tastes best fresh. Make it just before guests arrive for peak cozy factor.
Calories: 508kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 30mg | Potassium: 84mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 54g | Vitamin A: 720IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 1mg