Stella’s Hot Buttered Rum

Bottoms Up

By Anna Faller | Dec. 3, 2021

Few things fend off November’s chill quite like a swig of something spiked. For the ultimate internal thaw, cozy up to a cupful of hot buttered rum. With recipes preceding the American revolution, this traditional cocktail is a bar-backed staple, but we suspect none do it more authentically than Trattoria Stella in Traverse City. Helmed by Advanced Sommelier Amanda Danielson, Stella’s legendary bar program has been catering to palette and presentation since opening its doors in 2004; and from frothy top to creamy base, their Hot Buttered Rum is no exception. To build the drink, bartenders begin with a scoop of house “butter batter” — that’s a baking-inspired compound butter with brown sugar, fresh vanilla bean, and a warming spice blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. From there, they add in a shot of caramelly Angostura 7-Year Rum and enough hot water to fill a footed coffee mug. Stirred and garnished with a healthy dollop of homemade whipped cream, this cold-weather cure-all is best savored slowly — or until the feeling returns to your fingers. $14 at Trattoria Stella. 1200 W. 11th St., Traverse City. (231) 929-8989. www.stellatc.com