Indulge in the comforting warmth of hot buttered rum, an ideal alcoholic beverage for chilly fall and winter days. Raise a toast to National Hot Buttered Rum Day on January 17.

While mulled wine and toddy have European roots, hot buttered rum is a distinctly American libation. Its origins trace back to the 1650s when Jamaica started importing molasses to Colonial America and New England witnessed the establishment of distilleries. Unable to resist the allure of distilled rum, colonists began incorporating it into their hot drinks like eggnog and toddy, giving rise to the delightful creation of hot buttered rum.

History and Significance: Hot buttered rum has its roots in colonial America during the 17th century. As rum became widely available in the American colonies, it was incorporated into various drinks, including hot buttered rum. The beverage gained popularity as a warming drink during the cold winter months, often enjoyed by settlers and sailors alike.

National Hot Buttered Rum Day celebrates this traditional winter drink, encouraging people to indulge in its rich and creamy goodness. The day also provides an opportunity to explore the history of rum in America and its role in colonial life.

Ingredients and Preparation: The basic ingredients of hot buttered rum include:

• Rum: A dark or spiced rum is commonly used for its rich flavor.
• Butter: Adds a creamy texture and richness to the drink.
• Sweetener: Brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup can be used to sweeten the drink.
• Spices: Common spices include cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice, which add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Hot Water or Cider: Used to dilute the drink and blend the flavors together.

Simple Hot Buttered Rum Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water or apple cider
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup dark rum
• Cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the water or apple cider, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Rum: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the rum.
4. Serve: Pour the hot buttered rum into mugs, garnish with cinnamon sticks if desired, and serve immediately.

Ways to Celebrate National Hot Buttered Rum Day:

• Make Hot Buttered Rum: Prepare a batch of hot buttered rum at home using your favorite recipe. Enjoy it by the fireplace or with friends and family.
• Host a Tasting Party: Invite friends over for a hot buttered rum tasting party. Provide different variations of the drink and let everyone sample and compare flavors.
• Explore Recipes: Experiment with different recipes and ingredients. Try using spiced rum, flavored syrups, or different spices to create your unique version.
• Learn About Rum History: Take time to learn about the history of rum and its significance in American colonial life. Read articles or watch documentaries on the subject.
• Pair with Food: Pair your hot buttered rum with complementary foods, such as spiced cookies, gingerbread, or roasted nuts.
• Share on Social Media: Share your hot buttered rum creations on social media using hashtags like #HotButteredRumDay and #NationalHotButteredRumDay. Connect with other enthusiasts and exchange recipes and tips.

Interesting Facts About Rum:

• Colonial America: Rum was a popular beverage in colonial America, and its production and trade were significant to the economy.
• Navy Grog: British sailors were given daily rations of rum, which eventually led to the creation of the drink known as "grog."
• Versatile Spirit: Rum can be made from sugarcane juice or molasses, resulting in different flavors and types, such as light rum, dark rum, and spiced rum.

Conclusion: National Hot Buttered Rum Day is a delightful celebration of a classic winter beverage that has warmed hearts for centuries. By making your hot buttered rum, hosting a tasting party, or learning about the history of rum, you can fully embrace the spirit of the day. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this comforting drink and share the experience with friends and family. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to hot buttered rum, this day offers a perfect opportunity to indulge in a delicious and warming tradition.