Harry Potter first tasted butterbeer in the third novel of the series, The Prisoner of Azkaban. In the story, it was wintertime, and the drink was served hot.
Fast forward twenty years: the iconic butterbeer is now available to fans visiting Universal Studios, where it can be enjoyed hot, cold, or frozen. If you’re not planning a trip there soon, don’t worry! You can easily recreate this fizzy treat at home with this straightforward butterbeer recipe.
A Homemade Cold Butterbeer Recipe
While butterbeer can be crafted in both hot and frozen varieties, this guide focuses on the cold version, which is arguably the simplest to prepare at home.
The drink consists of a carbonated cream soda base topped with sweetened whipped cream. The butterscotch flavor runs through both components, which we’ll detail in this guide.
Buy Store-Bought Butterscotch Syrup…
There are two approaches to infusing your drink with butterscotch: you can either create a homemade syrup or opt for a pre-made version.
Surprisingly, crafting your own syrup can be easier than finding a high-quality bottled version. If you prefer purchasing, Monin’s Butterscotch syrup is recommended, though it’s often found only with commercial suppliers. If you have access to one, you’re in luck!
…Or Make Your Own Butterscotch Syrup!
For a homemade syrup, start with this recipe from Simply Recipes, adding 1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar with the brown sugar to prevent crystallization, and heat only to 250°F to retain liquidity.
The syrup will thicken upon cooling and become almost solid when refrigerated. It’s advisable to warm it slightly before use, or use it immediately.
If it’s too stiff, mix it with a small amount of cream soda in the bottom of a glass to ease blending into the drink.
Tip Box
An opaque drink will result when using homemade syrup, whereas bottled syrup will maintain a clear appearance.
Butterbeer Whipped Topping
The whipped topping, thick and sweet in the original drink, has been slightly less sweetened for this version, but adjust as desired for more sweetness!
For optimal results, make your own whipped cream. You’ll have better control over its texture and sweetness.
How to Serve Butterbeer
To serve, use a chilled 16-ounce glass to hold a full 12-ounce soda bottle with space for a 1-inch cream layer. Alternatively, split it into two 6-ounce portions, but still leave room for the cream topping!
More Butterscotch Please!
Ensure all components are chilled, including the glass. Freeze glasses briefly while prepping the drink.
For homemade syrup, reference this butterscotch sauce recipe. Keep extra whipped cream refrigerated, using within a day.
For the whipped cream topping
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons butterscotch syrup (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon powdered sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
For the drink
- 1 tablespoon butterscotch syrup (homemade or store-bought)
- 12 ounces cream soda
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Make the whipped cream topping: In a bowl, mix cream, syrup, sugar, and salt. Beat until medium peaks form, approximately 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
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Make the drink: In a chilled glass, mix syrup with cream soda. Stir to combine.
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Garnish and serve: Top the soda with about 1 inch of whipped cream. Enjoy, and share your reviews if you loved the recipe!
Nutrition facts per serving:
| Calories: | 475 |
| Total Fat: | 21g |
| Carbs: | 73g |
| Protein: | 2g |
Note: Nutrition values are estimates.
