One snowy evening I started playing with my grandmother's Hot Buttered Rum recipe adding vanilla ice cream to her spiced butter blend. That little twist created the most luxurious winter cocktail I've ever tasted. Now when the temperature drops this warming blend of dark rum and spiced butter batter has become my signature drink for gatherings around the fireplace.
Pure Winter Comfort
The magic happens when that creamy spiced butter batter melts into hot rum creating the most incredible frothy drink. Adding vanilla ice cream to the traditional butter blend was my happy accident making it even more velvety smooth. Each sip feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a cold winter night.
Your Cozy Drink Ingredients
- Dark Rum: Pick one with rich caramel notes it makes all the difference
- Butter Batter: My special blend of ice cream sugars and warm winter spices
- Boiling Water: Keeps everything perfectly warm and combined
- Pretty Extras: Cinnamon sticks and star anise make it look as good as it tastes
Creating Winter Magic
- Mix Your Batter
- Blend those creamy ingredients and spices until they become something wonderful
- Build Your Drink
- Start with that gorgeous batter add your rum then watch as hot water creates pure magic
- Add the Finishing Touch
- Pop in a cinnamon stick maybe some star anise then sit back and enjoy
My Cocktail Secrets
Splurge on really good dark rum you can taste the difference. I always warm my mugs with hot water first so the drinks stay cozy longer. Sometimes I add fresh ginger for extra warmth or swap in hot tea instead of water. The beauty is you can adjust everything to make it exactly how you like it.
Mix It Up
Some nights I'll use bourbon instead of rum for a different kind of warmth. My vegan friends love it with plant based ice cream and butter. During holiday parties I set up a little garnish station with cookies whipped cream and freshly grated nutmeg. Everyone loves making their drink special.
Always Ready to Serve
I keep a batch of spiced butter batter in my freezer all winter long. It stays perfect for weeks ready whenever friends drop by or I need a cozy nightcap. If you happen to have leftover drinks they warm up beautifully on the stove just stir gently to bring back that magic.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why add ice cream to the butter batter?
The vanilla ice cream adds extra creaminess and helps create a smoother texture when the batter melts into the hot water. It also adds a subtle vanilla flavor.
- → How long does the butter batter keep?
The batter keeps well in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can make a batch ahead for the whole winter season.
- → Can I make this non-alcoholic?
Yes, simply skip the rum and add more hot water. The spiced butter batter makes a delicious hot drink on its own.
- → Why use dark rum specifically?
Dark rum has richer, deeper flavors that complement the spices in the butter batter. Light rum works but won't give the same depth of flavor.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, you can reduce or increase the amount of sugar in the batter to taste. Start with less batter per drink and add more if needed.