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Cozy Hot Buttered Rum with Brown Sugar and Nutmeg

hot buttered rum - featured image

This hot buttered rum recipe features a creamy, spiced batter made with brown sugar, butter, and freshly grated nutmeg, served with dark rum and hot water for a comforting winter drink. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it can be prepared ahead and customized to taste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 to 2 ounces (45-60ml) dark or spiced rum per serving
  • 6 ounces (180ml) boiling water per serving
  • Optional garnish: cinnamon sticks and freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric hand mixer on medium speed for 3 to 4 minutes until light, fluffy, and pale in color. Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through.
  2. Add the ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, ground cloves, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed until fully incorporated, about 30 seconds. Scrape the bowl again.
  3. Spoon the batter into an airtight container or jar. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the batter before sealing the lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors meld, or store for up to 2 weeks.
  4. When ready to serve, boil water in a kettle or saucepan. Scoop about 2 heaping tablespoons (roughly 35g) of the batter into each mug.
  5. Pour 6 ounces (180ml) of boiling water directly over the batter in each mug. Stir vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds until the batter is completely melted and the liquid is smooth and creamy.
  6. Pour in 1 1/2 to 2 ounces (45 to 60ml) of dark rum per serving. Stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust as desired.
  7. Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick and a light grating of fresh nutmeg. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

Cream the butter and sugars thoroughly to ensure proper emulsification. Use freshly grated nutmeg for best flavor. Add rum after stirring batter into hot water to prevent alcohol evaporation. Batter can be made up to 2 weeks ahead and stored in the refrigerator, or frozen for up to 3 months. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute rum with hot apple cider or extra hot water.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot buttered rum, winter cocktail, holiday drink, brown sugar, nutmeg, spiced rum, cozy drink, Christmas cocktail