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When the weather turns cold and the nights get long, there’s nothing quite like a warm mug of Hot Buttered Rum to make winter feel a little cozier. This classic winter cocktail is creamy, buttery, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Add a splash of spiced rum and you’ve got a drink that warms you from the inside out. If you prefer a non‑alcoholic version, simply swap the rum for a little vanilla — you’ll still get all the flavor and comfort without the booze.
What makes this recipe truly special is the homemade hot buttered rum batter. Store‑bought versions can be grainy, overly sweet, or oddly artificial. Once you make your own, you’ll never go back. This homemade mix is smooth, rich, and so delicious that I’ve been known to sneak a spoonful straight from the freezer. It’s that good.
Why Homemade Hot Buttered Rum Is Worth It
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Budget‑friendly: Making your own mix costs far less than buying pre‑made tubs.
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Better flavor: Real butter, real spices, real ice cream — no fillers.
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Perfect for gifting: This recipe makes a large batch, ideal for portioning into cute containers for friends and neighbors.
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Convenient: Keep it in the freezer and scoop out a mugful whenever the craving hits.
How to Make the Best Hot Buttered Rum Mix
Ingredients:
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1 lb soft butter (not margarine)
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1 lb powdered sugar
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1 lb brown sugar
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1 qt good‑quality vanilla ice cream (softened enough to scoop, not melted)
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1 Tbsp nutmeg
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1 Tbsp cinnamon
Instructions:
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In a stand mixer, a hand mixer won’t be strong enough. Blend the butter, powdered sugar, and brown sugar until completely smooth. Make sure all sugar granules dissolve — this is the secret to avoiding a grainy mix.
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Add the vanilla ice cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix again until thick, creamy, and fully combined.
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Transfer the mixture to a freezer‑safe container and freeze.
How to Serve Hot Buttered Rum
Scoop a generous spoonful of the frozen batter into a mug. Add a shot of spiced rum, then fill the rest of the mug with boiling water. Stir until creamy and perfectly blended. For a non‑alcoholic version, replace the rum with a splash of vanilla extract.
This recipe makes a large batch, so feel free to halve it — or keep it all for yourself. Trust me, you’ll want to.
Enjoy — I know I do. (Courtesy of my friends, the Heaths.)
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I've never heard of Hot Buttered Rum, but it looks delicious.
Sounds yummy, thanks for sharing at Bacon Time.
Im going to try this!
Question: My husband and I would love this with rum. My sister and son not so much. Would you make this with JUST hot water or is there another non-alcohol alternative to add?
You could try it with just hot water, I don’t for sure but it could taste watered down or weak? Good question!
Apple Cider is a good choice
I prefer hot buttered brandy. So good!
Sounds good!
It’s good with hot water or by the spoonful, lol. I make mine with brandy. Whiskey is good, too. You could maybe try in coffee, tea or cider for non alcohol beverages.
Oh yes, it’s good with anything!
My husband and I used to take this same recipe with us on our boat when it was cold outside. So glad to have found the recipe again!! My friends will be enjoying with us this with us this holiday…. thanks for posting.
I’m so glad, it is one of my favorites on cold nights!!!