Hot Buttered Bourbon

Some drinks feel like they become part of your routine without planning, and this Hot Buttered Bourbon turned into that for me one winter. I made it on a quiet night when the house felt still, and the warm cider scent slowly moved through the kitchen. It reminded me of evenings when you finally settle down after a long day and everything slows at the right moment.

I love this recipe because it brings flavor without feeling heavy. The spices stay soft, the honey rounds out the sweetness, and the bourbon gives just enough warmth to make the drink feel steady. It is simple to mix, and the ingredients are the kinds you already keep at home, making it easy to come back to on busy days.

This works for small gatherings or relaxed holiday meals where you want something warm that still looks thoughtful. It feels right at brunch, after dinner, or on those late nights when you want a break from the cold. Hot Buttered Bourbon makes a comforting holiday cocktail or a simple winter drink you can enjoy anytime the air starts to feel sharp.

Why You’ll Love This

Hot Buttered Bourbon has a steady charm. The blend of apple cider, spices, and bourbon creates a smooth, inviting drink. Butter softens the edges, and honey brings gentle sweetness.

A few reasons it becomes a favorite:

• Quick to mix with basic ingredients
• Warm and comforting on cold nights
• Works well for both small gatherings and holiday parties
• Easy to adjust for different spice levels
• Tastes smooth without feeling too sweet
• Creates a cozy scent that fills the kitchen

Together, these perks make this Hot Buttered Bourbon a steady option for winter gatherings or relaxing evenings.

Ingredients

The ingredients in this Hot Buttered Bourbon recipe come together simply yet thoughtfully. Each one balances warmth, sweetness, and spice. Apple cider adds fruit notes, bourbon brings depth, and butter creates a velvety base for cold days.

• 4 oz apple cider
• 2 oz bourbon
• 0.5 oz honey
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter softened
• 3 cloves
• 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground ginger
• Cinnamon stick for garnish

Fresh apple cider delivers a clean, bright flavor. Choose a bourbon you enjoy sipping, since its character carries through the drink. Honey dissolves easily and adds gentle sweetness. Fully softened butter blends smoothly, while spices create a warm aroma that turns this cocktail into winter in a glass. A cinnamon stick enhances the scent with each sip.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Choosing the right bourbon for Hot Buttered Bourbon defines the drink’s character. A smooth, steady bourbon pairs seamlessly with warm spices, and the cider preserves balance. For a sweeter or bolder result, try these alternatives.

• Maker’s Mark, a softer bourbon with a mild sweetness that blends well with cider
• Buffalo Trace, a balanced option that adds depth without taking over
• Four Roses, a gentle spice that matches the cinnamon and ginger
• Wild Turkey, stronger flavor if you enjoy a bolder bourbon note
• Maple syrup instead of honey if you want a richer sweetness
• Dark rum as a full substitution for bourbon if you enjoy a softer, sweeter version of the drink

Most swaps lean into the drink’s comfort, so match it to your taste.

Equipment and Glassware

You do not need much to make this drink at home, which keeps the recipe simple. A small saucepan helps warm the cider slowly, and a whisk or spoon blends the butter and spices. A heat-safe mug helps retain heat while you drink. A cinnamon stick adds a nice touch without extra effort.

What you will want nearby

• Small Bowl
• Small saucepan
• Jigger
• Whisk
• Spoon
• Mug

A heavier mug holds heat longer, making the drink feel even cozier.

How to Make It

Hot Buttered Bourbon is easy to prepare and fills your kitchen with a warm aroma. This recipe uses just a few steps to deliver a calm, steady drink on a cold night.

1. Warm the cider. Heat the apple cider over low heat until it reaches a gentle simmer.
2. Mix the spiced butter. Combine the softened butter, honey, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger in a small bowl and mix until smooth.
3. Blend the flavors. Add the spiced butter mixture to the simmering cider, whisking until the butter melts and the drink looks smooth.
4. Add the bourbon. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the bourbon.
5. Serve. Pour into a mug and add a cinnamon stick.

You can adjust the spice level or sweetness on your next batch if you want a slightly different flavor.

Pro Tips

Small, thoughtful steps help your Hot Buttered Bourbon turn out perfectly smooth and flavorful every time. These tips simplify preparation and keep the texture consistent from the first to last sip.

• Use fresh apple cider for the cleanest flavor
• Warm your mug with hot water before serving
• Let the butter soften fully so it blends smoothly
• Whisk often to avoid any separation
• Choose a bourbon that is not too smoky
• Add more honey only if needed, since the cider already has sweetness
• Strain out the cloves if you prefer a smoother sip
• Add a little extra cinnamon for a stronger spice

After making it once, adjust the recipe to suit your taste or the season.

Variations

Hot Buttered Bourbon is flexible enough to handle small twists or flavor changes. You can make a lighter version, a richer version, or something fun for kids who want a warm drink, too.

• Use dark rum instead of bourbon for a sweeter finish
• Add orange zest or juice for a bright citrus touch
• Swap honey for brown sugar for a deeper flavor
• Skip the alcohol and enjoy warm cider with spiced butter
• Add star anise for a stronger spice scent

Each variation keeps the original’s comfort while letting you change the drink’s mood.

When to Serve and Pairings

This drink is perfect for cold evenings, holiday gatherings, or quiet nights at home. I make it on winter mornings when the house feels chilly, or after dinner for something warm. It brings a calm mood to parties and offers a cozy option for friends.

Food pairings that work well

• Gingerbread cookies
• Apple pie bars
• Warm pretzels
• Pecan tart

Try it with my Hot Toddy Recipe or Mulled Wine for a warm drink pair. These foods echo Hot Buttered Bourbon’s spice without overpowering it. 

Serving Notes

Hot Buttered Bourbon tastes best freshly mixed, but the spiced butter can be made ahead. Store in the fridge up to three days, and let it reach room temperature before mixing with warm cider. This ensures the butter blends smoothly.

For groups, warm a larger pot of cider, then add the butter mixture in batches. Add bourbon at the end so the flavor stays clean and fresh.

FAQs

Here are common questions about preparing Hot Buttered Bourbon at home.

Can I warm the cider in the microwave?
Yes, but heat it slowly and stir often so the flavor stays even.

Can I use salted butter?
Unsalted butter works better in this drink because it lets the spices stand out.

Can I make a lighter version?
Reduce the butter and add a splash of hot water to thin the drink slightly.

What type of bourbon is best?
A smooth, medium-bodied bourbon pairs well with honey and spices.

Can I make a batch for a crowd?
Yes, keep the cider warm on low heat and mix each serving with bourbon at the end.

More Cocktails to Try

If warm cocktails are your go-to during winter, these drinks can help build a full cold-weather drink list. Each one brings its own mix of comfort and flavor.

• Irish Coffee, great for brunch or late-night sipping
• Hot Toddy Recipe, soothing and simple for slow evenings
• Mulled Wine, warm spices, and fruit notes for gatherings
• Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned, sweet and balanced for after dinner
• Spiced Rum Cider, a fruit-forward option with a gentle kick