If you’re searching for the perfect winter cocktail, try Hot Toddy. This traditional whiskey cocktail with lemon and honey is easy to make and full of cozy charm.
Contents
Hot Toddy Recipe
Hot toddy is a classic warm cocktail made with just four simple ingredients: hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon juice. The drink has long been a favorite remedy for cold nights and sniffly noses, thanks to its soothing and gently invigorating character.
This alcoholic drink has become a beloved staple across the world in the cold season. Traditionally enjoyed as a nightcap, it’s famous as a comforting balm during cold or flu season. The citrus and honey help soothe the throat, while the steam and warmth relax your mind and body.
Hot toddy pairs well with many sweet and savory bites, such as chewy oatmeal cookies, lemon squares, or gingerbread with lemon glaze. Salted chocolate chip cookies and biscotti, especially almond or pistachio, are also a good choice.
For a heartier snack, try buttery ham, Swiss, and apricot pinwheels. Savory roast beef tea sandwiches and blue cheese crostini work well, too. Slices of sharp aged cheddar or creamy Havarti with tart cranberry toast are perfect alongside.
You can serve hot toddy with classic brunch fare as well. Smoked salmon on rye toast, breakfast quiche, or bacon and egg casserole work wonderfully with the toddy’s warmth.
Here’s how to make the hot toddy:
Hot Toddy
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 ½ oz whiskey (bourbon or Scotch)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick optional, for garnish
- 1 lemon slice for garnish
- 2-3 whole cloves optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat water until hot but not boiling.
- In a heatproof mug, combine whiskey, honey, and lemon juice.
- Pour in the hot water and stir until honey dissolves.
- Garnish with a lemon slice, cinnamon stick, and cloves if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- You can adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- Herbal tea can replace hot water for extra flavor.
- For a stronger version, use 2 oz whiskey.
- Best enjoyed freshly made for the exact warm, soothing result.
Variations
The hot toddy has many versions. Here are some suggestions to add your personal touch:
- Apple Cider Toddy replaces the hot water with hot apple cider for a fruity, autumn-inspired version.
- Spiced Hot Toddy adds fragrant cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise for a deeper, aromatic flavor.
- Rum Version swaps the whiskey for dark or spiced rum, offering a slightly sweeter, tropical twist.
- Hot Maple Toddy substitutes maple syrup for honey, bringing an earthy sweetness that pairs well with bourbon.
- Brandy Toddy uses brandy instead of whiskey, delivering a smooth, mellow finish and extra warmth.
- Tea Toddy starts by steeping a black or green tea bag in the hot water before adding the classic ingredients, adding rich herbal notes.
- Ginger Toddy includes fresh ginger slices or ginger syrup along with lemon and honey, providing a lively, spicy kick.
- Citrus Toddy combines lemon with orange or grapefruit juice for a brighter, fruit-forward riff.
These easy tweaks let you make the hot toddy yours, whether you want it traditional, spicy, fruity, or herbal. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite twist!