Why is National Hot Buttered Rum Day on January 17th?
National Hot Buttered Rum Day is celebrated on January 17 likely because it falls in the heart of winter, a season when warm, comforting drinks are especially appealing. The timing makes it ideal for enjoying this classic hot cocktail, which has a rich history rooted in colonial America and pairs perfectly with cold weather. While the exact origin of the date is unclear, it aligns well with the seasonal demand for cozy beverages.
What is Hot Buttered Rum?
Hot buttered rum is a warm, comforting cocktail made with rum, butter, hot water or cider, a sweetener, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This drink is especially beloved during the fall and winter months and has become a holiday season classic. Its origins in the United States trace back to colonial times, when many families crafted their own recipes. Early Americans even regarded rum as a source of nourishment and a tonic for strengthening the body.
Serious Eats Hot Buttered Rum Recipe
Ingredients
Batter:
4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
8 ounces brown sugar or demerara sugar (Sugar in the Raw)
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
For each drink:
2 tablespoons batter, to taste
2 ounces dark rum
4 ounces boiling water
Ground nutmeg, for garnish
Directions
Cream the butter with the sugar in a stand mixer (or by hand with a wooden spoon) and add the spices. Keep refrigerated.
Add batter to a warm mug and pour in 2 ounces of boiling water. Stir to mix, add rum and the rest of the water, stir again. Garnish with fresh nutmeg.
For Whiskey Trivia and Fun Facts – Check Here