Hot Buttered Rum With A Twist

Hot Buttered Rum is a classic winter warmer, perfect for chilly evenings and festive gatherings. This version adds a special twist by incorporating the rich, honeyed flavours of mead, creating a drink that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night by the fire or hosting a bonfire night celebration, this cosy concoction is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml Spiced rum
• 30 ml Mead (preferably spiced mead or traditional mead)
• 240 ml Hot apple cider
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
• Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
• Orange or lemon peel twist (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the cider: Begin by warming the apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it's hot but not boiling. You can also use a microwave if you're in a hurry
2. Prepare the glass: While the cider is heating, place a tablespoon of unsalted butter into your serving mug. If you like your drinks on the sweeter side, add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the mug as well
3. Add the rum and mead: Pour the spiced rum into the mug over the butter and sweetener. Then, add the mead, which will bring a lovely depth and honeyed sweetness to the drink
4. Combine with hot cider: Once the cider is hot, carefully pour it into the mug, stirring well to melt the butter and dissolve the sweetener. The combination of hot cider, rum, and mead creates a rich, warming base for the drink
5. Garnish: To finish, drop in a cinnamon stick for stirring and flavour, then garnish with a twist of orange or lemon peel. A light sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg over the top adds a final touch of spice
6. Serve: Serve your Hot Buttered Rum with a Twist immediately, enjoying it while it’s warm and fragrant. The drink’s smooth, buttery texture and rich, spiced flavours make it perfect for sipping on a cool evening

Pairing Suggestions:
This warming cocktail pairs beautifully with seasonal snacks like gingerbread cookies, roasted nuts, or spiced cakes. Its rich, warming qualities make it an excellent companion to sweet and savoury treats alike, enhancing your winter gathering with a touch of cosy indulgence.