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Hot Buttered Rum with Citrus Zest and Apple Cider

This warm, comforting drink combines rich melted butter, aromatic spices, and dark rum, creating a velvety beverage with a bright citrus twist. The infusion of citrus zest and a splash of apple cider adds a lively brightness to the traditionally indulgent hot buttered rum. The final appearance is a creamy, frothy mug topped with a cinnamon stick or lemon peel, inviting cozy sipping.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter preferably real butter for richness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick for extra aroma
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg freshly grated if possible
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground clove optional for extra spice
  • 1 1/2 cups dark rum robust and smoky preferred
  • 1/2 cup apple cider adds brightness and depth
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup adjust sweetness to taste
  • 1 zest lemon or orange peel for bright citrus aroma

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Mugs or heatproof glasses

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and equipment before beginning to ensure a smooth process.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, watching as it bubbles gently and releases a rich aroma.
  3. Add the ground spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove—and toast them for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Pour in the dark rum and apple cider, then stir well to combine all the flavors and create a warm, fragrant mixture.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the butter to emulsify into the liquid.
  6. Stir in honey or maple syrup to taste, tasting the mixture and adjusting sweetness as desired.
  7. Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the hot buttered rum into mugs or heatproof glasses.
  8. Garnish each mug with a twist of citrus zest or a cinnamon stick for a decorative and aromatic finishing touch.
  9. Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the creamy, spiced aroma and cozy warmth with each sip.