Hot Toddy Recipe
Introduction
A hot toddy is a comforting warm drink perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a soothing sip. This classic recipe combines whiskey, honey, lemon, and warming spices to create a delightful and simple cocktail.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye recommended)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 whole cloves
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the water in a kettle until steaming hot.
- Step 2: In a heatproof mug, combine the whiskey, honey, and lemon juice, stirring until the honey fully dissolves.
- Step 3: Add the cinnamon stick and whole cloves to the mug.
- Step 4: Pour the hot water over the whiskey mixture, allowing the spices to infuse.
- Step 5: Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more honey or lemon juice if desired.
- Step 6: Garnish with a lemon slice or an extra cinnamon stick before serving for a cozy touch.
Tips & Variations
- Swap whiskey for dark rum or brandy for a different flavor profile.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer sweetness.
- Add a thin slice of fresh ginger for extra warmth and spice.
- Steep the cinnamon and cloves in the boiling water for a few minutes before mixing to intensify the flavor.
Storage
Hot toddies are best enjoyed fresh and served warm, so they do not store well. If you have leftovers, keep them covered in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stove or microwave without boiling to preserve flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make a non-alcoholic hot toddy?
Yes! Substitute the whiskey with apple cider or herbal tea for a cozy, alcohol-free version that still offers warmth and flavor.
What type of whiskey works best in a hot toddy?
Bourbon and rye are popular choices because of their rich, smooth flavors, but feel free to use your favorite whiskey to suit your taste.
PrintHot Toddy Recipe
A classic and soothing hot cocktail known as the Hot Toddy, perfect for chilly evenings or soothing a sore throat. This warm beverage combines whiskey, honey, lemon juice, and aromatic spices to create a comforting, flavorful drink that is simple to prepare and delicious to enjoy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Hot Toddy Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye recommended)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 whole cloves
Instructions
- Boil the Water: Start by boiling 1 cup of water in a kettle until it reaches a rolling boil, ensuring it is hot enough to infuse flavors.
- Mix the Base: In a heatproof mug, combine 2 oz of whiskey, 1 tbsp of honey, and 0.5 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well until the honey is completely dissolved into the mixture.
- Add Spices: Place 1 cinnamon stick and 2 whole cloves into the mug to infuse their warm, aromatic flavors into the drink.
- Pour Hot Water: Carefully pour the boiling water into the mug over the whiskey mixture and spices, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste the hot toddy and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more honey or lemon juice according to your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a lemon slice or an extra cinnamon stick to enhance aroma and presentation before serving hot.
Notes
- The whiskey choice can be bourbon or rye depending on your flavor preference.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit whiskey and increase lemon and honey amounts.
- You can let the spices steep longer for a stronger cinnamon and clove flavor.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste and aroma.
- Adjust sweetness and acidity after pouring the hot water to perfectly suit your taste.
Keywords: Hot Toddy, whiskey cocktail, warm beverage, honey lemon drink, cinnamon cloves, winter drink
