Butterbeer is a drink featured prominently in the Harry Potter universe, a popular series of books (and films). Butterbeer can be served hot or cold and is enjoyed by all ages in the series. It was first mentioned in the third book, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Students who attend Hogwarts School will often purchase it on visits to Hogsmeade Village, at establishments like the Leaky Cauldron.

Yes, butterbeer has a very slight alcoholic content in the series, but really not enough to impact humans. House elves (like Winky), however, can easily get get intoxicated while drinking it. Butterbeer can be made with or without alcohol.

What does butterbeer taste like?

In the wizarding world, it is described as having a "less-sickly butterscotch flavor." It is available for purchase at Harry Potter theme parks as well.

Is butterbeer based on a real drink?

It is possible that it draws inspiration from Buttered Beer, a beverage featured in A Good Huswifes Handmaide from the year 1594. During the Tudor period, this drink was made from beer, sugar, eggs, nutmeg, cloves and butter.

Vegan Butterbeer – Garlic Head

Description

This recipe for Hot Vegan Butterbeer tastes just how you’ve pictured the most beloved drink in the Harry Potter Universe! With notes of warming sugars and creamy butterscotch, it is also easily made into a spiked cocktail that is perfect for a cool evening.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1/4 cup brown sugar, slightly packed
3 TBS water
1–2 TBS high-quality vegan butter, such as Miyokos (more butter will make it richer)
1/2 cup nondairy milk, such as almond or coconut, divided
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1/2 TBS lemon juice
1.5 oz (1 shot) vodka, optional
Cream soda, optional

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a small pot over medium heat, combine brown sugar and 3 TBS water. Stir until sugar starts to melt, 1-2 minutes.
Stir in vegan butter, half (1/4 cup) of the milk, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon juice. Remove from heat once butter melts and mixture is slightly thickened.
For a foamier final beverage, whip the remaining 1/4 cup milk in a mixer or frother with half of the butterscotch mixture. If you do not feel like doing this, feel free to add the remaining 1/4 cup milk right into the pot.
Carefully (it’s still hot!), pour the butterscotch mixture into a large mug. If desired, top with a shot of vodka or a splash of cream soda (for fizz).

Notes

Nutrition facts calculated with 1 TBS butter and without vodka or cream soda.

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Drink
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: British

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 recipe
Calories: 275.2 calories
Sugar: 43.7 grams
Sodium: 318.7 milligrams
Fat: 11.2 grams
Saturated Fat: 8.1 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 3.1 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 44.7 gram
Fiber: 0.2 grams
Protein: 0.5 grams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

Keywords: butterbeer, drink, butterscotch