Hot Buttered Rum
Why does a large glass of Hot Buttered Rum taste so good in the winter? The name itself gives away the answer: it is hot, buttery, and rum-infused. It is, simply put, comfort food in a mug. This assessment is not universal, though, for some reason. According to the 1948 book "The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks," written by dyspeptic cocktailian David Embury, this traditional rum drink was "the worst" hot mess. He asserts that the lump of butter is the last insult. It combines with the hot rum in a manner that is comparable to how warm olive oil combines with champagne. Only in the Northwest Passage, and even then, only by extremely creative and overly enthusiastic novelists, should hot buttered rum be allowed to be consumed, in my opinion.
Discover the Warm Comfort of Hot Buttered Rum: A Timeless CocktailIntroduction to Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum is a classic cocktail that evokes warmth and nostalgia, making it the perfect drink for chilly evenings. Its resurgence in popularity can be traced back to Kenneth Roberts, the author of the bestselling historical novel “Northwest Passage” published in 1937. In his book, Roberts vividly describes the effects of this indulgent drink, noting that “after a man’s had two or three drinks of Hot Buttered Rum, he don’t shoot a catamount; all he’s got to do is walk up to him and kiss him just once, then put him in his bag, all limp.” This whimsical portrayal sparked a renewed interest in the cocktail, leading to a small cultural mania. Notably, even Tiki legend Trader Vic included Hot Buttered Rum in his 1946 “Book of Food and Drink,” acknowledging its revived status.
The Flaw in Traditional RecipesWhile Hot Buttered Rum is beloved for its rich flavor, many traditional recipes fall short due to a common issue: the greasy blob of melted butter that often floats on the surface. This occurs when a simple dollop of butter is added before serving. However, there’s a more sophisticated solution to this buttery dilemma: creating a batter using ice cream. This approach not only enhances the drink's creaminess but also allows for easy storage in the freezer, ensuring you have the perfect Hot Buttered Rum ready to go all winter long.
Ingredients for the Perfect Hot Buttered RumTo make a delightful Hot Buttered Rum, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 ounces gold rum
- 1 tablespoon hot buttered rum batter (see instructions below)
- Boiling water (to top)
- Garnish: freshly grated nutmeg
- Garnish: cinnamon stick
Creating the batter is a simple yet rewarding process. Here’s a basic recipe to make your hot buttered rum batter:
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with brown sugar, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer the batter to an airtight container and store it in the freezer. This will allow you to enjoy Hot Buttered Rum whenever the mood strikes.
Follow these simple steps to enjoy your homemade Hot Buttered Rum:
- Combine Ingredients: In a mug, add 2 ounces of gold rum and 1 tablespoon of your prepared hot buttered rum batter.
- Add Boiling Water: Fill the mug with boiling water and stir well to ensure the batter dissolves completely into the rum.
- Garnish: Finish by garnishing with freshly grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick for an aromatic touch.
Hot Buttered Rum is not just a drink; it’s a comforting experience that warms both the body and soul. By following this recipe and using the innovative batter method, you can elevate this classic cocktail to new heights. Perfect for cozy nights by the fireplace or festive gatherings, Hot Buttered Rum will surely delight anyone who sips it.
