I've got a treat for you - Hot Buttered Bourbon cider cocktails. After a couple of these, I might just burst into a butter-themed Christmas carol!
Seriously though, can you imagine the holidays without butter? No thanks!
If any ingredient deserves its own theme song, it's butter. Or maybe bourbon. We can debate over round two of these cozy drinks!
This hot bourbon cocktail is pure winter magic - warm, cinnamony, and oh-so-buttery.
The butter melts right into the apple cider and spices, making each sip creamy and rich. And the smooth bourbon keeps it from being too sweet.

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Why You'll Love This Hot Buttered Bourbon
You'll fall for this drink's rich, complex flavors. The bourbon's warmth mingles with the butter's creaminess for a truly satisfying sip.
It's so easy to customize. Adjust the spices and sweetness to your taste. You can even make a big batch of the spiced butter mixture ahead of time.
This cocktail is sure to impress your guests. It looks fancy but takes minimal effort to prepare. Your friends will think you're a master mixologist!

Tips
Use a good quality bourbon you enjoy drinking straight. The bourbon is the star here, so pick one with flavors you like.
Don't skip the fresh nutmeg if possible. Its aroma really elevates the drink. A microplane grater makes it easy to add a sprinkle on top.
Make sure your mug is warm before adding the hot drink. Run it under hot water or fill it with boiling water for a minute, then empty and dry it.
The Ingredients
Bourbon
This is the backbone of the drink. Choose a bourbon with notes of vanilla, caramel, or oak. These flavors pair beautifully with the butter and spices.
Butter
Unsalted butter works best here. It adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to the cocktail. The fat in the butter helps carry the flavors of the spices.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar brings sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor. It balances the bourbon's heat and complements the warm spices.
Spices
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice create that classic winter spice profile. They add depth and complexity to the drink.
How to Make Hot Buttered Bourbon
Create the Spiced Butter Mixture
In a bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar and spices. Beat until well combined and set aside.
Heat the Bourbon
Warm the bourbon in a small saucepan over low heat. Don't let it boil – you just want it hot.
Combine and Serve
Add a spoonful of the spiced butter to a warm mug. Pour in the hot bourbon and stir until the butter melts. Top with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
What to Serve With Hot Buttered Bourbon
- Gingerbread cookies
- Cheese plate
- Stovetop Candied Pecans
- Chocolate truffles
Substitutions
- Use rum instead of bourbon for a hot buttered rum
- Try maple syrup in place of brown sugar
- Use a non-dairy butter alternative for a vegan version
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the spiced butter mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just warm the bourbon and add the butter when ready to serve.
Is this drink very strong?
It can be. Feel free to dilute with a splash of hot water if you prefer a less potent drink.
📖 Recipe

Hot Buttered Bourbon
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Mugs
Ingredients
- 4 oz bourbon
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter softened
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of allspice
- Fresh nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Mix butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a bowl.
- Heat bourbon in a small saucepan until hot but not boiling.
- Add 1 tablespoon of spiced butter to each mug.
- Pour hot bourbon over butter and stir until melted.
- Grate fresh nutmeg on top and serve.
Notes
- Adjust spices and sweetness to taste.
- For a less strong drink, add a splash of hot water.




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