If there were ever a cocktail perfect for a winter warm up, it would be the hot spiced cinnamon rum drink known in Ecuador and Columbia as canelazo. Not only is it mildly sweet and deliciously flavored with holiday spices, but I’m pretty sure this would knock out a cold too. At least, that’s probably what my grandmother would say. Made with cinnamon, sugar, and a splash of citrus, this hot spiced cinnamon rum cocktail will quickly replace your favorite fireside hot toddy.
When the temperatures drop and cozy nights by the fire call for something special, nothing warms you up quite like this. While this recipe is inspired by the traditional Ecuadorian Canelazo, it brings its own twist with a burst of orange and a hint of clove or star anise for garnish. Ready to mix up this drink? Hit the jump to recipe button. Or scroll through below to learn a bit about the history of Canelazo, its role in Ecuadorian culture, and how you can make this delicious hot spiced cinnamon rum at home.
The History of Canelazo
Canelazo is a beloved hot drink in Ecuador, particularly enjoyed in the Andean highlands where cooler temperatures make a warming beverage a welcome treat. I first read about it while researching cocktails around the world to create a travel-inspired New Years Eve menu. Typically, it’s made with a sugar cane based alcohol called aguardiente which literally translates to “water fire.” Since I just want to have a little warm up and not turn into a fire breathing dragon, and because aguardiente isn’t readily available here in the United States, I took some inspiration from it’s sugar cane source and used rum instead.
The warmth of the cinnamon combined with the smooth sweetness of sugar and citrus creates a drink that is both soothing and invigorating—perfect for cold-weather gatherings, holiday parties, or a quiet night at home.
Upon further research, I learned it is really popular in the Andes and is typically served during the holidays. And since Ecuador is on our bucket list, we added it to our Christmas cocktail menu at home as a toast to travel adventures the new year.
How To Make Hot Spiced Cinnamon Rum
It’s really easy to make this hot spiced cinnamon rum. Gather together the ingredients you’ll need: water, brown sugar, rum, an orange, and cinnamon sticks.
First, start by making a dark simple syrup with either turbinado sugar or light brown sugar. (You can also add cinnamon sticks in with the sugar to simmer for an extra spicy kick).
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. If using whole cinnamon sticks, let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the cinnamon to infuse the water fully.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in freshly squeezed orange juice. This adds a bright, citrusy note that balances the sweetness and spice.
Pour in the rum and stir gently to combine. The rum will bring warmth and depth to the drink without overpowering the other flavors. Ladle the hot spiced cinnamon rum into mugs. Garnish each drink with a cinnamon stick and, if desired, a star anise or a couple of cloves for an extra layer of spice and visual flair.
Ladle the hot spiced cinnamon rum into mugs. Garnish each drink with a cinnamon stick and, if desired, a star anise or a couple of cloves for an extra layer of spice and visual flair.
Canelazo - Hot Spiced Cinnamon Rum
The warmth of the cinnamon and rum combined with the smooth sweetness of sugar and citrus creates a drink that is both soothing and invigorating—perfect for cold-weather!
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup turbinado or light brown sugar
- 4 ounces rum
- 1 small orange, juiced
- 8 cinnamon sticks
- star anise or cloves as garnish if desired
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar on low to medium heat. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved, creating a dark simple syrup.
- Add to the simple syrup the remaining 1 cup of water, rum, orange juice, and cinnamon sticks. Stir until heated, being sure not to boil it as that will cook off the alcohol.
- Distribute the hot spiced cinnamon rum among four glass mugs, adding the cinnamon sticks too as garnish.
This brings back fond memories of my time in Europe. Thanks for sharing.