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Classic Hot Buttered Rum With Cinnamon and Brown Sugar – A Cozy Winter Warmer

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the spiced butter batter:
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar (light brown works in a pinch)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for extra warmth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • For each serving:
  • 2 tablespoons spiced butter batter
  • 2 ounces dark or aged rum
  • 6–8 ounces hot water (near-boiling)
  • Cinnamon stick or a light dusting of cinnamon, for garnish (optional)
  • Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Make the spiced butter batter. In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar and powdered sugar until smooth. Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), salt, and vanilla. Stir until evenly combined and fluffy.
  2. Chill or store the batter. Transfer the mixture to a small container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This helps it scoop neatly and melt slowly into the drink.
  3. Warm your mug. Fill your mug with hot water for 30 seconds, then pour it out. A warm mug keeps the drink hotter longer and helps the batter melt evenly.
  4. Add the batter. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the spiced butter batter into the warm mug.
  5. Pour in the rum. Add 2 ounces of dark or aged rum over the batter. Dark rum brings deeper molasses flavors that work best with brown sugar.
  6. Top with hot water. Pour in 6–8 ounces of hot water. Start with less for a richer drink or more if you prefer it lighter.
  7. Stir thoroughly. Stir until the batter fully dissolves and the drink looks glossy and uniform. Taste and adjust with a pinch more salt or a splash more hot water if needed.
  8. Garnish and serve. Add a cinnamon stick or a light dusting of cinnamon and a whisper of fresh nutmeg on top. Serve immediately while steaming hot.