National Bootlegger’s Day & National Hot Buttered Rum Day

National Bootleggers Day & National Hot Buttered Rum Day: A Toast to History, Resilience, and Cozy Indulgence

January 17th brings together two fascinating and flavorful celebrations: National Bootleggers Day and National Hot Buttered Rum Day. Together, they tell a rich story of American resilience, creativity, and comfort, making this the perfect moment to reflect, sip, and savor the warmth of tradition. At Good Thyme Gal, this day aligns beautifully with our mission to honor food and drink history while making recipes accessible, intentional, and inclusive for today’s home cooks.

The Importance of National Bootleggers Day

National Bootleggers Day commemorates the era of Prohibition (1920–1933), when the sale of alcohol was banned in the United States. While Prohibition aimed to curb social issues, it instead sparked underground economies, creative resistance, and a wave of innovation in food and drink culture. Bootleggers, speakeasies, and homemade spirits became symbols of defiance, ingenuity, and survival.

From a culinary perspective, this era shaped how Americans experimented with flavors. Since many spirits were harsh or poorly made, mixers, spices, butter, sugar, and citrus were used to improve taste, leading to iconic drinks that still exist today. Celebrating National Bootleggers Day allows us to acknowledge the role food and drink played in community-building, adaptation, and storytelling.

At Good Thyme Gal, honoring history through the lens of food is a core value. We believe recipes are living records, passed down and reimagined with intention. National Bootleggers Day reminds us that creativity often thrives during challenging times, especially in the kitchen.

Why National Hot Buttered Rum Day Matters

Hot buttered rum is one of the most comforting drinks in American culinary history. Originating in colonial times and popularized during colder months, this warming beverage combines butter, spices, sugar, and rum into a rich, soothing mug of nostalgia. During Prohibition, hot buttered rum became a favorite because it masked rough spirits while delivering warmth and comfort.

National Hot Buttered Rum Day celebrates slowing down, embracing seasonal rituals, and enjoying mindful indulgence. It’s not about excess, it’s about balance, warmth, and intention. These values perfectly align with the Good Thyme Gal philosophy: thoughtful enjoyment, flexible recipes, and accessible luxury.

Equitable Hot Buttered Rum Recipe (Classic or Alcohol-Free)

This recipe is designed to be adaptable, inclusive, and budget-conscious, allowing everyone to participate, whether or not they consume alcohol.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon allspice

• Pinch of salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup dark rum (optional)

• 3–4 cups hot water or hot apple cider

Instructions

1. In a bowl, cream together butter, sugar, spices, salt, and vanilla until smooth.

2. Add 1–2 tablespoons of the butter mixture to a heat-safe mug.

3. If using alcohol, add ¼ cup rum. For alcohol-free, skip this step.

4. Top with hot water or cider and stir until melted and frothy.

5. Garnish with cinnamon stick or orange peel if desired.

Why This Recipe Is Equitable

• Alcohol-optional for inclusive enjoyment

• Customizable sweetness and spice levels

• Uses pantry staples

• Easily dairy-free with plant-based butter

Why This Celebration Aligns with Good Thyme Gal

Good Thyme Gal is rooted in storytelling, heritage, and hospitality. National Bootleggers Day and National Hot Buttered Rum Day reflect how food and drink connect us across generations. They celebrate warmth, both literal and emotional, and encourage us to gather, reflect, and enjoy intentionally.

These holidays also highlight adaptability, a key Good Thyme Gal value. Whether adjusting recipes for dietary needs, honoring cultural history, or creating cozy rituals at home, this day invites everyone to participate on their own terms.

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Final Toast

January 17th is more than a novelty food holiday, it’s a reminder that even in restrictive or challenging times, people find ways to create comfort, community, and joy. So pour yourself a mug, raise it to history, and celebrate the season with purpose.

From my kitchen to yours!!

Here’s to good thyme, good stories, and cozy sips. 🍹✨- Good Thyme Gal