Warm Up to Autumn with a Hot Buttered Rum from Trader Vic's!

My love affair with Tiki Culture began when I visited the Trader Vic's in Atlanta, GA many years ago. The restaurant is an oasis in the otherwise unassuming Hilton Atlanta; once you step inside Trader Vic's doors, you are swept away to a lush, mid-century Polynesian paradise!  

"Trader" Vic Bergeron is credited with inventing the Mai Tai, and the modern day restaurants he founded serve over 70 signature cocktails, many in their own distinctive glassware.  As a former bartender (and present connoisseur of all things cocktail), I adore Trader Vic's keen attention to detail and use of fine quality spirits and ingredients to craft their mixological masterpieces!

One such drink is Trader Vic's Famous Hot Buttered Rum, "a soothing, warming drink perfect for cold weather and after dinner."  Hot Buttered Rum dates back to Colonial New England,  tied to the rum and spice production of the Caribbean Islands.  Over time, Hot Buttered Rum gained popularity as a holiday libation and an après-ski staple.  Many people associate Tiki Culture with the endless summer of the South Pacific.  But there is no reason that the fun can't continue into the autumn and winter!  

Now, you can bring a taste of Tiki home for the holidays with 

Trader Vic's Hot Buttered Rum Batter from Trader Vic's Online Store!

It is so easy to use Trader Vic's Famous Hot Buttered Rum Batter to create a perfect drink every time.  

First, preheat a mug with hot water.  I used a thick-walled ceramic Tiki mug from my collection.  When you are ready to begin, empty the mug and add 2 teaspoons of batter, a well-balanced mix of brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and spices.  

Next, fill the mug with hot water.  I used my Keurig machine to dispense 8 oz. of hot water.  Then add 1 1/2 oz. of rum and stir well.  I used 1 oz. of Meyers's Dark Rum and 1/2 oz. of Bacardi Superior.

A note on spirits:  dark rum is preferable in the Hot Buttered Rum because it is aged longer and has a complexity and depth that adds to the rich flavors of the drink.   A dark spiced rum like The Kraken would also work well.  I realize that people are more likely to have white, gold, or spiced rum in their personal booze cache and can attest that those rums will work nicely, too.  As stated on the Hot Buttered Rum Batter package, you may also wish to try adding bourbon or brandy.

I finish my Hot Buttered Rum with freshly-grated nutmeg.  If you have never used or tried freshly-ground or grated nutmeg, I highly recommend it.  This Cole & Mason Nutmeg Mill is inexpensive and indispensable in my kitchen!  

The finished product: SCRUMPTIOUS.  The batter is a well-balanced mix of sweet, creamy, and spicy.  If you like a certain coffee chain's autumn 'Spice' collection of warm drinks, you would love the Trader Vic's Hot Buttered Rum.  There is nothing like curling up in front of the fire in the evening with a Hot Buttered Rum and a good book.  I also like to serve them during our holiday parties and after caroling at Christmas time.  

Get a jump on your holiday gift giving and order a 4-Pack of Hot Buttered Rum Batter.  You could bundle one tub of batter with whimsical mugs and a pint of rum for the perfect holiday hostess gift!

Trader Vic's also has a Tom & Jerry and Hot Buttered Rum Mixed Pack, whereby you receive 4 tubs of their Famous Hot Buttered Rum Batter and 4 jars of their Famous Tom & Jerry Batter for $40.  

Warm Up to Autumn with Trader Vic's!

Disclosure Statement: I was provided with complimentary samples for review purposes.  This review is based solely on my opinion.  Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product(s) listed above.  No monetary compensation was received for this review.