National Hot Buttered Rum Day, celebrated on January 17th each year, is a delightful occasion that warms both hearts and palates. This festive day pays homage to a classic and comforting winter beverage that has been cherished for centuries.
Hot Buttered Rum traces its roots back to the colonial days of America when rum was a prevalent and popular spirit. The drink is a delightful concoction of dark rum, hot water, spices, and a generous dollop of butter. It’s the perfect elixir to combat the winter chill, offering a soothing blend of warmth and flavor.
The preparation of Hot Buttered Rum is an art form in itself. A traditional recipe often includes brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a rich and aromatic base. This warm mixture is then combined with a good-quality dark rum, and the magic happens when a pat of butter is added, imparting a luxurious creaminess to the beverage.
One of the charms of National Hot Buttered Rum Day is the variety of recipes and personal touches people bring to their versions of this classic drink. Some may experiment with different spices, while others might opt for unique variations like adding a hint of vanilla or a splash of apple cider. The beauty lies in the adaptability of the recipe to suit individual preferences.
As you celebrate this special day, consider hosting a cozy gathering with friends or family, complete with a Hot Buttered Rum tasting session. Encourage creativity by setting up a DIY Hot Buttered Rum bar, allowing everyone to customize their drinks with various spices and garnishes.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic alternatives, fear not – there are delightful mocktail versions of Hot Buttered Rum that capture the essence of the drink without the spirits. These can be equally enjoyable and are perfect for all ages to partake in the festivities.
In conclusion, National Hot Buttered Rum Day offers a wonderful opportunity to embrace the winter season with a steaming mug of this classic beverage. Whether you’re sipping it by the fireside or sharing it with loved ones, Hot Buttered Rum is sure to add warmth and cheer to your winter celebrations. Cheers to the timeless tradition of savoring this delightful drink on its dedicated day!
Classic Hot Buttered Rum

Ingredients:
- 2 oz dark rum
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves
- 1 cup hot water
- Optional garnish: cinnamon stick or orange zest
Instructions:
- In a heatproof mug, combine the dark rum, unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves.
- Pour the hot water into the mug, ensuring that it’s hot enough to melt the butter and dissolve the sugar.
- Stir the ingredients well until the butter and sugar are fully melted and incorporated into the drink.
- Optionally, garnish your Hot Buttered Rum with a cinnamon stick or a twist of orange zest for added aroma and flavor.
- Allow the drink to cool slightly before sipping, as it can be quite hot initially.
- Savor the comforting warmth and rich flavors of your homemade Hot Buttered Rum, perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.
Note: Feel free to adjust the spice levels and sweetness to suit your taste preferences. You can also explore variations by adding a splash of vanilla extract or experimenting with different spices. Cheers to enjoying this classic winter beverage!
Gourmet Hot Buttered Rum

Ingredients:
- 2 oz high-quality dark rum
- 1 tablespoon unsalted, cultured butter (preferably European-style)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a heatproof mug, combine the dark rum, cultured butter, pure maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, and a pinch of sea salt.
- In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling.
- Pour the warm milk into the mug with the rum and spice mixture.
- Add the vanilla extract to the mug and stir the ingredients thoroughly until the butter is melted, and the spices are well combined.
- Allow the gourmet Hot Buttered Rum to sit for a moment to let the flavors meld.
- Optionally, you can garnish your drink with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or a cinnamon stick for an extra touch of elegance.
- Take a moment to appreciate the rich aroma and luxurious taste of your gourmet creation before indulging in the delightful warmth it offers.
This elevated version of Hot Buttered Rum adds a touch of sophistication to a classic winter drink, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Enjoy the refined flavors and the comforting embrace of this gourmet twist on a beloved tradition!
