Warm Up with Hot Buttered Apple Cider: Holiday Bliss in a Cup

Enjoy the cozy flavors of Hot Buttered Apple Cider, a perfect holiday drink blending spiced cider and a sweet buttery mix.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 7

Chilling Time 4

Total Time 4 17

Servings: 4 cups

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Calories: 230

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Buttered Mix

0.5 cup brown sugar Provides sweetness and depth; substitute with maple syrup for a delightful twist.
0.5 cup butter Adds creaminess and richness; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Infuses warmth and spice; can substitute with pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile.
0.25 teaspoon nutmeg Adds aromatic flavor and enhances warmth; freshly grated nutmeg will heighten the taste.
0.25 teaspoon all spice Complements the warm spices; if unavailable, increase the dosage of cinnamon.
0.5 teaspoon ground ginger Offers a spicy kick; fresh ginger can add vibrancy to your drink.
a pinch sea salt Enhances overall flavor; regular salt works as a suitable alternative.
0.25 cup honey Adds natural sweetness and balances the butter; maple syrup can be used as a substitute.
1 teaspoon vanilla Provides a warm, sweet aroma; bourbon vanilla makes for an excellent rich substitute.

For the Drink

4 cups apple cider The base of the drink; fresh cider is best, but store-bought works well for convenience.
1-2 tablespoons spiced rum or dark rum Adds authenticity and warmth; bourbon can be a tasty alternative for a different flavor.

For Garnishes

to taste apple slices Enhance the visual appeal and add some fresh flavor.
1 cinnamon stick A classic garnish that adds more spice and aroma.
to taste orange slices Introduce a zesty brightness that complements the drink beautifully.

Equipment

Mixing bowl
electric mixer
Airtight container
heat-safe glass
saucepan

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Buttered Apple Cider

In a mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of softened butter, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of all spice, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, a pinch of sea salt, ¼ cup of honey, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Once your buttered mix is ready, transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you prefer.
When you’re ready to enjoy, take a heat-safe glass and measure out 2 tablespoons of the chilled buttered mix. Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of spiced rum, depending on your preference.
Heat up fresh apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming—about 5-7 minutes. Carefully pour the hot cider into the glass with your buttered mix and rum. Stir gently until the mix is fully dissolved.
Finish your Hot Buttered Apple Cider by adding a few slices of fresh apple, a classic cinnamon stick, and a slice of orange for a bright twist. Serve immediately and savor every warm, comforting sip!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 1gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 150mgSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Prepare the buttered mix in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days for enhanced flavors. Opt for fresh apple cider if possible for the best taste.

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