This Pumpkin Hot Buttered Rum is one of those cozy drinks that wraps around you like a blanket.
It’s warm, creamy, spiced just right, and has that rich buttery finish that makes it feel extra special.
It’s perfect for chilly evenings, holiday get-togethers, or just when you want something comforting and a little indulgent.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s just something magical about this drink. I first made it on a cold October night with friends around the fire, and now it’s tradition every fall. It’s cozy, spiced, and just strong enough to take the edge off after a long day.
- It’s buttery, creamy, and full of fall flavor.
- Takes just a few minutes to make.
- Easy to batch for parties.
- A fun twist on the classic hot buttered rum.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 ounces dark rum
- 3/4 cup hot water
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg, for garnish
- Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Use real pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie mix.
- Let the butter fully melt before whisking in the rum.
- Taste before serving—add more sugar or spice to your liking.
- Pre-warm your mug with hot water so the drink stays warm longer.
- Use a high-quality dark rum for the best flavor.
Tools Needed
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Clear glass mug
- Spoon
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
- Use spiced rum instead of dark rum for extra flavor.
- Make it non-alcoholic by leaving out the rum and adding a splash of apple cider.
- Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.
Make Ahead Tips
You can make the butter mixture (butter, sugar, pumpkin, spices, vanilla) in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just scoop and mix with rum and hot water when ready to serve.
How to Make Pumpkin Hot Buttered Rum
Step 1: Make the Butter Mix
Add 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 1/4 cup pumpkin purée, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to a small saucepan.
Step 2: Heat the Mix
Place the saucepan over low heat. Stir the mixture until the butter melts and everything blends into a smooth, golden base.
Step 3: Add the Rum
Pour in 1 1/2 ounces dark rum and whisk it in until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Add Hot Water
Slowly pour in 3/4 cup hot water, whisking as you go to make it silky and smooth.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Pour the hot drink into a pre-warmed mug. Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and an optional cinnamon stick.
Leftovers & Storage
This is best served fresh, but you can store the butter mixture (before adding rum and water) in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just reheat, stir in rum and hot water, and serve.
Makes
1 serving
Cook Time
10 minutes
Macros (per serving)
- Calories: 275
- Carbs: 24g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Alcohol: ~1.5 oz
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The fat in butter carries flavor and gives the drink that silky texture. Brown sugar adds depth from molasses, and the alcohol in the rum helps amplify the spices. The pumpkin purée not only adds flavor—it thickens the drink slightly, making it feel like a dessert in a cup.
Common Mistakes
- Using cold butter—it won’t mix properly and can clump.
- Overheating the mix—can burn the sugars or dull the spices.
- Using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin—it’ll be way too sweet.
- Skipping the whisking step—makes the drink separate.
What to Serve With
- Gingersnap cookies
- Pumpkin bread
- Toasted pecans
- Apple crisp
- A cozy blanket and a good book (optional but encouraged)
FAQ
Can I make this for a crowd?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients by however many servings you want and keep it warm in a slow cooker.
Can I use another type of alcohol?
Spiced rum or bourbon work great too.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a vegan butter substitute.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just check your rum brand.
Wrap-Up
This Pumpkin Hot Buttered Rum is fall in a cup—rich, spiced, creamy, and so satisfying. It’s one of those drinks you’ll crave as soon as the weather cools down. Give it a try, and don’t forget to come back and let me know how it turned out or drop any questions in the comments.
