Indulge in the Ultimate Holiday Warmth: Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum Recipe

There’s a certain magic that only a truly exceptional warm drink can conjure, especially when the air turns crisp and festive lights begin to twinkle. Our journey to discover the perfect cozy beverage led us to a delightful revelation: Hot Buttered Rum. While classic recipes abound, we’ve elevated this beloved winter warmer with a unique twist – a harmonious blend of carefully selected spices and the luxurious addition of hazelnut liqueur. This isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience, transforming an already comforting concoction into an unforgettable highlight of your holiday season. Prepare to make this rich, aromatic, and perfectly spiced Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum your new favorite tradition, savored throughout the chilly months.

The holiday season is synonymous with warmth, joy, and, of course, delightful spiked drinks. If you’re eager to explore more festive sips beyond this incredible Hot Buttered Rum, be sure to check out some of our other cherished recipes. For another comforting hot beverage, consider our Night Owl Empress Ginger Hot Toddy or the aromatic Mulled Wine with Amaretto and Brandy. And for those seeking a vibrant, chill-worthy cocktail, our Frosted Cranberry Empress Gin Cocktail and The Great 1908 Blizzard Cocktail offer a perfect frosty alternative.

• What is Hot Buttered Rum?
• Ingredients for Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum
• Ingredient Substitutions
• How to Make Hot Buttered Rum
• Recipe Variations
• Make a Batch for a Crowd (Hot Buttered Rum Batter)
• Delicious Food Pairings
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Related Cocktail Recipes
• Desserts to Pair with Hot Buttered Rum
• Full Recipe Card

What is Hot Buttered Rum? A Rich History and Cozy Tradition

At its heart, Hot Buttered Rum is a warm, inviting cocktail that delivers exactly what its name promises: the delightful combination of rum and butter, infused with rich, aromatic spices. This classic winter beverage has long held a cherished spot among holiday favorites, standing proudly alongside mulled wine, wassail, hot toddies, and boozy hot cocoas. However, we’re confident that our special Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum recipe is poised to become the new reigning champion on your list of essential festive treats.

Beyond its core ingredients of dark rum and creamy butter, the magic of this drink lies in its traditional blend of warm ground spices. Think cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves – flavors that evoke the very essence of the season. A touch of brown sugar or honey provides natural sweetness, while hot water brings everything together into a wonderfully comforting and deeply satisfying concoction. Don’t forget the elegant finishing touch: a cinnamon stick garnish, which not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra layer of spice as you sip.

The origins of Hot Buttered Rum trace back to colonial America, particularly New England, where rum was the most widely produced spirit. During these early times, recipes for this cozy drink began to emerge, offering a delicious way to combat the harsh winter chill. While specific preparations have naturally evolved over centuries, the fundamental combination of rum, butter, sugar, and spices remains the bedrock of modern versions. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its irresistible taste and the comforting experience it provides.

Although it’s undeniably a quintessential holiday drink, the allure of Hot Buttered Rum extends far beyond December. We find ourselves reaching for this warming beverage throughout the colder months, often enjoying it well into January and February. In fact, its significance is celebrated annually on January 17th, National Hot Buttered Rum Day – a perfect excuse to whip up a batch and embrace the lingering chill of winter.

Essential Ingredients for Our Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum

Our Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum elevates the classic profile by carefully selecting and combining ingredients that contribute to its rich, complex, and utterly delightful flavor. Each component plays a vital role in crafting this incredible warm cocktail. Let’s delve into the details of what makes our recipe so special:

• Dark Rum: The foundation of this drink demands a good quality dark rum. Dark rums, typically aged in oak barrels, naturally boast notes of brown sugar, caramel, vanilla, and subtle spices. This depth of flavor makes it an ideal choice, harmonizing perfectly with the other ingredients and contributing to the drink’s luxurious character. Avoid light rums, which lack the necessary body and complexity.
• Frangelico (Hazelnut Liqueur): This is our secret weapon and the star of this particular twist! Frangelico, an exquisite Italian hazelnut liqueur, infuses the Hot Buttered Rum with a delicate yet distinct nutty aroma and flavor. This addition transforms the drink from a traditional treat into something truly extraordinary, adding an unexpected layer of sophistication and warmth that complements the spices beautifully.
• Unsalted Butter: Butter is more than just a flavor enhancer here; it’s crucial for the drink’s signature rich, creamy texture and luscious mouthfeel. We recommend using unsalted butter to maintain control over the overall sweetness and allow the nuanced flavors of the rum and spices to shine through without excessive salinity.
• Hot Water: The simple yet essential element that brings all the ingredients together, melting the butter and creating a steaming, comforting beverage.
• Brown Sugar: Whether you choose light or dark brown sugar, its molasses notes are indispensable. Brown sugar contributes a deeper, more caramel-like sweetness than white sugar, enhancing the rum’s inherent flavors and adding to the drink’s cozy profile. Adjust the quantity to your preference for sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon: A foundational winter spice, ground cinnamon adds a warm, sweet, and slightly woody aroma that is instantly recognizable and comforting. It’s a non-negotiable ingredient for any holiday-themed drink.
• Freshly Grated Nutmeg: Often underestimated, nutmeg is a quintessential flavor of the festive season. We strongly advocate for using whole nutmeg and grating it fresh into your drink with a microplane zester. Pre-ground nutmeg loses its potent aroma and flavor surprisingly quickly, often becoming bland after about a year. Investing in whole nutmeg not only ensures a superior, more vibrant flavor but is also more cost-effective in the long run as you only grate what you need.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a touch of vanilla extract works wonders to round out and enhance all the other flavors. It adds a subtle sweetness and a comforting aromatic complexity, tying all the spicy, buttery, and nutty notes together into a cohesive and flavorful concoction.

Refer to the recipe card below for precise quantities.

Smart Ingredient Substitutions for Your Hot Buttered Rum

While we believe our recipe offers the optimal flavor profile, we understand that sometimes you might need to make substitutions. Here are our recommendations to ensure your Hot Buttered Rum remains delicious:

• Rum Alternatives: If dark rum isn’t available, spiced rum is your next best option. Its pre-infused spice notes will still complement the drink well. We strongly advise against using light rum, as its delicate flavor profile will get lost and not provide the necessary depth for a satisfying Hot Buttered Rum.
• Hazelnut Liqueur Swap: Frangelico is key for the distinct hazelnut flavor in this recipe. If you can’t find Frangelico, any other high-quality hazelnut liqueur will work as a suitable substitute, ensuring you retain that wonderful nutty element.
• Brown Sugar Alternatives: Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel depth, but if you’re out, Demerara sugar or sugar in the raw can be used in its place. These sugars have a coarser texture and a slightly less pronounced molasses flavor but will still provide the necessary sweetness and a hint of rich complexity.

Crafting Your Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum: Simple Steps for Maximum Enjoyment

One of the many charms of Hot Buttered Rum is its incredible simplicity. It’s arguably one of the easiest holiday cocktails to prepare, requiring no specialized bar equipment or complex techniques. You’ll be sipping this warm delight in mere minutes!

Step 1: Prepare Your Hot Water

The first step is to get your water piping hot. For ultimate convenience, we highly recommend using a countertop electric water kettle. It makes boiling water quick and effortless, speeding up the entire cocktail-making process.

Step 2: Combine and Stir

Once your water is hot, the rest is simple. Add all the specified ingredients – the dark rum, Frangelico, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract – directly into your chosen mug or heat-safe glass. Stir everything together thoroughly until the butter has completely melted and all the ingredients are well combined. The rich aroma will begin to fill the air, signaling that your cozy beverage is almost ready.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

For a beautiful presentation and an added touch of seasonal spice, garnish your Hot Buttered Rum. A cinnamon stick is a classic choice, and you can also add a whole star anise for an extra layer of aromatic intrigue. Serve immediately and savor the comforting warmth. Cheers!

Creative Variations to Customize Your Hot Buttered Rum

The beauty of Hot Buttered Rum lies in its versatility. While our hazelnut-infused recipe is a standout, there are countless ways to adapt this comforting drink to your personal taste. Here are a few recommended variations to inspire your next batch:

• Amaretto Infusion: For those who appreciate a delightful almond note, Amaretto is an excellent addition. You can either completely swap the Frangelico for Amaretto, creating a Hot Buttered Rum with a distinct almond essence, or combine the two, using half Amaretto and half Frangelico for a complex almond-hazelnut profile.
• Maple Syrup Sweetness: Replace the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a delicious twist. Maple syrup will impart a unique, earthy sweetness and a distinctly autumnal flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rum and spices.
• Whiskey or Bourbon Base: If rum isn’t your spirit of choice, or you simply want to experiment, try replacing it with your favorite whiskey or bourbon. This creates a delightful “Hot Buttered Whiskey” or “Hot Buttered Bourbon” with a different, yet equally warming, character.
• Indulgent Topping: To make your drink even more luxurious and visually appealing, top it with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the cream adds a professional finishing touch.
• Kid-Friendly Mocktail: Don’t let the adults have all the fun! Create a delightful non-alcoholic version for children (or designated drivers) by simply combining the butter, sugar, and spices with hot water or warm milk. It’s a comforting, flavorful treat everyone can enjoy.

Make a Batch for a Crowd: Hot Buttered Rum Batter for Easy Entertaining

This Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum is perfect for serving a large group at a holiday gathering or simply having a ready supply of deliciousness throughout the festive season. Preparing a batch of the spiced butter batter in advance significantly simplifies the process. This recipe for Hot Buttered Rum Batter yields enough for approximately 24 individual servings, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any occasion.

Hot Buttered Rum Batter Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions for making the batter: To create your versatile Hot Buttered Rum batter, combine all the listed ingredients – softened unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract – in a mixing bowl. Use an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer to thoroughly combine the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. Once prepared, transfer the batter to an airtight container or a jar for storage. Alternatively, you can form the mixture into a 2-inch wide log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This homemade batter will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 1 month, ready to transform into a warm, inviting cocktail at a moment’s notice.

To mix up a hot drink from the Hot Buttered Rum Batter: When you’re ready to enjoy a single serving, simply add 2 ounces of your preferred dark rum and 1 ounce of Frangelico (or your chosen hazelnut liqueur) to a glass or mug. Pour in 4 ounces of hot water, then add 1 heaping tablespoon of your pre-made spiced butter mixture. Stir everything together until the butter melts completely and the drink is well combined. Garnish with a cinnamon stick if desired, and enjoy your perfectly cozy cocktail!

Perfect Pairings: What to Eat with Hot Buttered Rum?

The rich, buttery, and warmly spiced profile of this cocktail makes it an ideal companion for a variety of holiday treats and decadent desserts. The complementary flavors enhance both the drink and the food, creating a truly memorable sensory experience. Here are some of our favorite pairings:

For a classic holiday feel, serve your Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum alongside crisp gingersnaps, delicate Linzer cookies with their fruity centers, or warm gingerbread cakes. These spicy and sweet baked goods echo the comforting spices in the drink, creating a harmonious flavor symphony. Specifically, consider pairing it with these charming Gingerbread Bundt Cakes with Cranberry Cream Cheese Glaze for an especially festive combination.

For an even more indulgent and luxurious pairing, elevate your experience by sipping a Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum with rich, sticky desserts. Our Sticky Toffee Pudding, with its deep caramel notes and moist cake, is an exquisite match. Alternatively, the festive layers of our Christmas Gingerbread Trifle with Brandy Whipped Cream would offer a beautiful contrast in textures while still complementing the drink’s comforting spices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Buttered Rum

Curious to learn more about this beloved holiday drink? Here are answers to some common questions:

More Delightful Cocktail Recipes to Explore

If you enjoyed crafting this Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum, you’ll love these other enticing cocktail recipes from our collection:

Decadent Desserts to Serve with Hot Buttered Rum

Complement the rich flavors of your Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum with these exquisite dessert pairings:

📖 Recipe: Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum

Enjoy Your Homemade Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum!

We hope this Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum brings a touch of warmth and festive cheer to your season. It’s a truly special drink that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. If you give this recipe a try, we’d absolutely love to hear from you! Please leave us a comment below sharing your thoughts, or tag us in your beautiful creations on Instagram @cooking_with_wine. Your feedback and photos brighten our day!

Don’t forget to explore some of our other cherished holiday favorites to complete your festive feast:

• Peppermint Chocolate Bourbon Bundtlettes – A delightful minty and boozy treat.
• Pecan Tassies (Mini Tarts) – Bite-sized pecan pies, perfect for parties.
• Whiskey Maple Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes – A rich, sophisticated dessert for chocolate and whiskey lovers.