Hot Buttered Rum is a delicious, dessert-like rum cocktail with a rich, buttery flavor that is gently spiced and finished off with a twist of orange.

woman's hand picking up glass of hot buttered rum

Why we love this recipe

Have you ever had a Hot Buttered Rum? This classic winter cocktail is so overlooked but so easy to make – and delicious! With just a little bit of prep work, this cocktail will leave all your guests clamoring for the recipe.

Even if you are not typically a fan of rum, this cocktail is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a nice, caffeine-free alternative to a spiked coffee to finish off a meal or night with friends.

Many people also believe that a hot buttered rum helps them fight off winter colds – my friend is actually a huge believer that it helps stop a sore throat! I guess if you’re starting to feel a bit under the weather, what do you have to lose?

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

How to make Buttered Rum

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. Please scroll down to simply print out the instructions!

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, butter, and spices until light and fluffy.
Portion 2 tablespoons of the spiced butter into each cocktail glass.

Using a liquid measure, add 1 1/2 oz of rum into each glass and top with 3/4 cup boiling water.

adding boiling water and orange juice to hot buttered rum

Stir well to break down the butter.
Add a splash of orange juice and a sprinkling of orange zest.

Expert Tips

If you’ll be entertaining, you can make the spiced butter mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to one week. However, the mixture does not need to be refrigerated before making cocktails if you plan to serve these right away. Serve these cocktails hot.
You can substitute any dark liquor for the rum. Many people enjoy whiskey or scotch in its place.

What to Serve with Hot Buttered Rum

There are several desserts and snacks that pair well with a hot toddy. Try one of these:

Cheese: Our baked brie is an amazing choice, but these beautiful whipped brie stuffed strawberries are also a great pick!
Gingerbread: This spicy type of cookie is even delicious dunked in your buttered rum. Try my soft gingerbread cookies, gingersnap cookies, or my molasses cookies.
Creme Brulee: Definitely a great pairing, try my espresso creme brulee at home!
Cheesecake: The creamy texture and crumbly crust of a cheesecake goes great with buttered rum. Try my mini turtle cheesecakes, chocolate cheesecake brownies, or my classic cheesecake for dessert.

This winter cocktail also goes great with a light cookie – like our Spiced Vanilla Butter Cookies or our Soft Eggnog Cookies.

More winter cocktails

Don’t miss our Homemade Eggnog Cocktail, served in a copper mug or a moose mug!
If you’re looking for a fruity drink, this Blended Frostbite Cocktail is not only pretty but is smooth and refreshing.
This Chocolate Peppermint Martini is festive and perfect for Christmas.
Having a party? Fill a pitcher with my Cranberry Holiday Punch.
Another hot drink choice is traditional mulled wine.
The Brandy Alexander is perfectly paired with appetizers or can be enjoyed as an after-dinner dessert cocktail.
This Hot Toddy warms your belly, and may even pick you up when you are feeling under the weather!