Embrace the chill of January with the warmth and comfort of a classic drink. National Hot Buttered Rum Day, observed every January 17th, is a time to indulge in this rich, spiced beverage that offers a delightful warmth with each sip.
National Hot Buttered Rum Day: Quick Facts
- When is it? January 17th, annually
- Tags: Alcohol, Food & Drink, Spirits & Liquors
- Hashtag: #NationalHotButteredRumDay
- Anything else? On a cold January day, what could be better than the sweet, spiced warmth of hot buttered rum? Celebrate this time-honored drink and enjoy the cozy comfort it brings.
The Story Behind National Hot Buttered Rum Day
The tradition of hot buttered rum dates back to the mid-17th century, following rum’s introduction from Jamaica to the United States.
Its origins are intertwined with the Hot Toddy, gradually evolving into the hot buttered rum we know today. Despite fluctuations in popularity, this drink has remained a beloved winter staple, particularly enjoyed during the holiday season.
National Hot Buttered Rum Day offers a special moment to appreciate this heartwarming beverage.
Ways to Celebrate
Savor a Cup of Hot Buttered Rum
What better way to honor National Hot Buttered Rum Day than by enjoying a mug of this delicious drink? Many bars and pubs offer it during the winter, and skilled bartenders can whip up this treat even if it’s not listed on the menu.
Home Brewing Adventure
For the home mixologist, creating hot buttered rum can be a delightful experience. The essential ingredients include rum (dark, golden, or spiced), hot water, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick for extra flair. For a twist, add cocoa powder, maple syrup, orange juice, salted caramel, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Make Your Own Hot Buttered Rum!
Ingredients
- 60 ml (2 oz) dark or spiced rum
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) brown sugar
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of ground nutmeg
- A pinch of ground cloves
- A pinch of allspice
- Boiling water to top up
- Optional: Cinnamon stick and/or orange peel for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Mug: Preheat your mug by filling it with hot water. Discard the water after a minute.
- Combine Ingredients: In the warmed mug, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice).
- Add Rum: Pour in the rum and stir the mixture well until the butter and sugar dissolve and the spices are well incorporated.
- Top with Boiling Water: Fill the rest of the mug with boiling water, leaving a little space at the top.
- Stir and Garnish: Stir the drink gently to make sure everything is well mixed. If desired, garnish with a cinnamon stick or an orange peel.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the Hot Buttered Rum while it’s warm and fragrant.
This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and warmth, making it an ideal drink for a chilly evening.
Check out some more of the best rum cocktail recipes.
Check out more drinkies’ days of celebration on our drinking days of the year calendar.
