Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a Harry Potter fan–or like my kids, a fanatic–chances are you’ve always wanted to try butterbeer. Of course, no one really knows what this magical drink tasted like in Harry’s world, but I’m guessing it was pretty close to the version they serve at Universal Studios. The good news is, this butterscotch infused beverage it so easy to make at home.
- Made with just a few ingredients and served cold. You can literally whip up this fun drink in less than 10 minutes.
- Perfect for and Harry Potter themed party or occasion. If you’re not planning a themed party, it’s a fun treat to serve around Halloween, or any time during the fall. Honestly, I say it’s a must make beverage any time of year.
- If you love the magical world of Harry Potter (and even if you don’t) this easy-to-make, Muggle friendly Butterbeer recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike.
After you preview the recipe card, be sure to look below for ingredient substitutions, recipe and storage tips, and suggestions for pairings and fun variations!
Harry Potter’s Butterbeer
Ingredients
For the Butterbeer
- 2 liters cream soda chilled
- 1/2 teaspoon butter emulsion (or extract)
- 1/4 teaspoon caramel emulsion (or extract)
For the Butterscotch Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup butterscotch syrup
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, stir together the 2 liters cream soda, 1/2 teaspoon butter emulsion and 1/4 teaspoon caramel emulsion. Refrigerate while you make the topping.
- In a medium bowl, beat the 1 cup heavy cream and 1 teaspoon light corn syrup with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Add the 1/2 cup butterscotch syrup and 1/4 cup powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
- Pour the butter beer into mugs. Top with the whipped butterscotch topping and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Butter & Caramel Emulsions
The base of this butterbeer is simply cream soda with butter and caramel emulsions or extracts added for flavor. I use bakery emulsions to make this recipe, since I keep those on hand for making cakes and cupcakes, but either works in this recipe. Keep in mind that extracts often have a less intense flavor than emulsions, so you may need a little more to achieve the desired taste.
Whether using emulsions or extracts, I usually end up ordering those two flavors online, since they aren’t often found in grocery store. Amazon to the rescue!
Butterscotch Syrup
I just use butterscotch ice cream topping. Whatever brand you can find will work great. The buttery whipped topping for this drink is amazing! I’d happily serve it on all kinds of fall desserts. Or eat it with a spoon.
Dairy Free Butterbeer
Just swap out the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream. Be sure to check that your butterscotch syrup is also dairy-free.
Recipe Tips
- Cold heavy cream whips up faster and holds its shape better, so pop your cream and mixing bowl in the refrigerator for a few minutes before making the topping.
- If you can find butter and caramel emulsions, they provide a more concentrated flavor without affecting the consistency. However, extracts work just fine, so don’t stress if that’s what you have on hand! I buy both on Amazon.
- For a magical presentation, serve your butterbeer in clear mugs or glasses with fun paper straws.
Storing Leftovers
- Butterbeer Base: Pour any leftover cream soda mixture into an airtight container or pitcher with a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the soda may lose some of its fizz over time, but leftovers are still delicious!
- Butterscotch Topping: Transfer the whipped butterscotch topping to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Before serving again, you might need to re-whip the topping for a minute or two to restore that fluffy texture.
Variations & Fun Twists
- Frozen Butterbeer: Freeze the cream soda mixture until slushy. Serve in chilled mugs and top with the whipped butterscotch topping for a refreshing frozen treat.
- Hot Butterbeer: Warm the cream soda gently on the stovetop (don’t boil), then stir in the butter and caramel emulsions for a cozy, cold-winter version.
- Spiced Butterbeer: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (or both) to the soda mix and/or the whipped topping—perfect for fall gatherings.
- Butterbeer Float: Add a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream into each mug before pouring in the butterbeer mixture.
