Hot Buttered Bourbon Cocktail
A cozy, creamy warm bourbon cocktail made with a quick spiced butter base, hot water, and rich brown sugar—silky, gently sweet, and perfect for chilly evenings.
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Heatproof mug or glass
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring spoons and cup
- Mixing bowl
- Strainer (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter or salted butter for a savory kick
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
- pinch ground cinnamon
- pinch ground nutmeg
- pinch ground clove
- 4 oz hot water or apple cider
- whipped cream optional, for garnish
- 1 stick cinnamon optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove until smooth.
- Pour bourbon into a heatproof mug and add hot water (or apple cider); stir gently.
- Mix in the melted spiced butter until fully dissolved.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve warm.
Notes
Unsalted butter gives more control over flavor; salted adds a pleasant contrast. For a make-ahead option, combine softened butter with brown sugar and spices to create a butter batter and store it chilled for quick drinks. Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a smoother sweetness. Using apple cider instead of water adds a fruity note that pairs nicely with bourbon’s caramel and oak.