Warm up on chilly days with a comforting Hot Toddy. This classic cocktail combines the soothing flavors of honey, lemon, and your favorite spirit to create a cozy drink perfect for cold evenings or soothing a sore throat.
Serve it as a nightcap, during holiday gatherings, or as a remedy for winter blues.
Hot Toddy Cocktail
Equipment
- Small saucepan or kettle
- Mug or heat-resistant glass
- Teaspoon
- Citrus juicer optional
Ingredients
- 1 cup hot water 8 oz
- 1 ½ oz whiskey, bourbon, or rum
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick optional
- 1 slice of lemon for garnish
- 1-2 cloves for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Heat the Water: In a small saucepan or kettle, heat water until it is hot but not boiling.Prepare the Mug: In a mug or heat-resistant glass, add the whiskey, honey, and fresh lemon juice.
- Combine: Pour the hot water into the mug and stir well to dissolve the honey.Add Garnishes: Insert the cinnamon stick into the mug, and float the lemon slice on top. Optionally, stud the lemon slice with cloves for added aroma and flavor.
- Serve: Sip slowly and enjoy while warm.
Video
Notes
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Spirits: Whiskey or bourbon are classic choices, but rum or brandy work just as well for a twist.
- Sweetness: Adjust the honey to taste if you prefer a sweeter drink.
- Herbal Note: Add a splash of herbal tea, such as chamomile, for extra depth and a calming effect.
- Serving Options: Make it a party hit by setting up a Hot Toddy bar with various spirits, honey types, and garnishes.
Alternative Ingredients for a Hot Toddy Cocktail
While the classic Hot Toddy uses whiskey, lemon, honey, and hot water, this versatile cocktail can be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For the spirit, whiskey is the traditional choice, but you can substitute bourbon for a sweeter, richer flavor, or try rum for a tropical twist.
Brandy offers a smooth, warming profile that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients, while tequila can add an unexpected smoky or citrusy note. For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the spirit with a strong herbal tea or apple cider for a comforting, family-friendly beverage.
Honey is the go-to sweetener for a Hot Toddy, but there are plenty of alternatives. Maple syrup can lend a deeper, earthy sweetness, while agave syrup provides a mild, neutral sweetness that blends seamlessly into the drink. If you want to experiment with flavor, consider using flavored syrups like ginger or vanilla.
For a tangy twist, swap the lemon juice with lime or orange juice, and add a splash of spiced apple cider for a cozy, autumnal vibe.
In Conclusion
The Hot Toddy is a timeless cold-weather cocktail that’s as comforting as it is versatile.
Perfect for cozy nights by the fire, holiday gatherings, or even as a soothing remedy for winter colds, the Hot Toddy is a warm hug in a mug.
Experiment with different spirits, sweeteners, and garnishes to make it uniquely yours, and don’t be afraid to try a non-alcoholic version for a family-friendly treat.
No matter how you prepare it, this beloved cocktail is sure to keep you warm and satisfied all season long.
I’m Leo McIntyre, and my love for cooking was born in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I discovered the magic of traditional Southern recipes. Inspired by her passion and the flavors of my childhood, I started SouthernParm to share these treasured family dishes and keep the rich culinary traditions of the South alive for everyone to enjoy.