Hot buttered rum

Hot buttered rum is a warming drink featuring rum, butter, garlic, and spices. This soothing beverage is perfect for chilly evenings and social gatherings.

16 Feb 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 cup rum
2 garlic cloves
1 lemon
1/4 cup sugar
4 cups water
1/3 cup butter
1 cinnamon stick
Hot buttered rum

Hot buttered rum is a warm and comforting drink that's perfect for cold weather. This classic beverage combines the rich flavors of rum, butter, and spices to create a deliciously soothing treat. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to unwind after a long day, this drink is sure to please.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Peel the garlic cloves and crush them lightly.
- Zest the lemon and then juice it, keeping both the zest and juice separately.
2. Make the Simple Syrup:
- In a saucepan, add 4 cups of water and 1/4 cup of sugar.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. This will create a simple syrup base.
3. Infuse the Syrup:
- Add the crushed garlic cloves, lemon zest, and 1 cinnamon stick to the simple syrup.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
4. Strain the Syrup:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the mixture to remove the garlic, lemon zest, and cinnamon stick. This will leave you with a flavorful, infused syrup.
5. Combine Butter and Rum:
- In a separate saucepan, melt 1/3 cup of butter over low heat.
- Once the butter has melted, slowly add in 1 cup of rum and the lemon juice, stirring continuously until well mixed.
6. Mix Everything Together:
- Gradually pour the prepared infused syrup into the rum and butter mixture, stirring constantly to ensure everything is well combined.
7. Serve:
- Carefully ladle the hot buttered rum into serving mugs.
- Optionally, you can garnish each drink with a thin slice of lemon or a small cinnamon stick for added aroma and presentation.
Note: While garlic adds a unique twist to the recipe, it is unconventional in traditional Hot Buttered Rum recipes. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste preferences.

Hot buttered rum is a delightful way to warm up on a chilly evening. With its rich, buttery taste and aromatic spices, it’s a delicious blend that’s easy to prepare and enjoy. Follow the tips provided to personalize the drink to your liking, and you'll have a comforting beverage to savor throughout the winter months.

Hot buttered rum FAQ:

How long should I simmer the syrup for the Hot Buttered Rum?

Simmer the syrup for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors from the garlic, lemon zest, and cinnamon stick to infuse properly into the syrup.

Can I store leftover Hot Buttered Rum?

Yes, leftover Hot Buttered Rum can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What can I substitute for rum in this recipe?

You can use spiced rum or even a non-alcoholic rum alternative for a similar flavor profile. Keep in mind, the taste may differ slightly.

What pan size should I use for making the syrup?

A medium saucepan should be sufficient for combining 4 cups of water and the other ingredients for the simple syrup.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the Hot Buttered Rum?

To adjust sweetness, you can either increase or decrease the amount of sugar added to the simple syrup. Start with 1/4 cup and taste before adding more.

Tips:

- Use high-quality rum for the best flavor.

- Freshly grated cinnamon can add a more aromatic spice element to the drink.

- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste.

- Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and complexity.

- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of lemon for a festive touch.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 220kcal
Protein 0.39g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 0.80g
Sugar 9g
Fat 10g

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