Bundled up on a chilly evening? There’s nothing quite like a warm, spiced hot toddy to melt away the winter blues. Whether you’re craving classic whiskey, a fruity twist, or a non-alcoholic version, we’ve gathered 18 cozy recipes that are perfect for sipping by the fire. Get ready to find your new favorite winter warmer—let’s dive in!
Classic Hot Toddy with Honey and Lemon
Kick off the holiday season with this comforting classic. Perfect for chilly evenings or soothing a sore throat, it’s a simple, warming drink that comes together in minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water (filtered for best flavor)
– 1 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
– 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
– 1 oz bourbon or whiskey (optional, omit for a non-alcoholic version)
– 1 cinnamon stick (or a pinch of ground cinnamon)
– 2 whole cloves (optional for extra spice)
– 1 thin lemon slice (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of water into a small saucepan and place it over medium-high heat.
2. Bring the water to a gentle boil, which should take about 2–3 minutes—watch for small bubbles forming steadily.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately to prevent over-boiling.
4. Stir in 1 tbsp honey until it dissolves completely, about 30 seconds, using the residual heat.
5. Add 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice and stir briefly to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into a heatproof mug or glass.
7. Add 1 oz bourbon or whiskey if using, stirring gently to incorporate.
8. Drop in 1 cinnamon stick and 2 whole cloves for infusion.
9. Garnish with 1 thin lemon slice on the rim or floating on top.
10. Let the drink sit for 1 minute to allow the spices to steep and flavors to meld.
Ultimate comfort in a mug, this hot toddy offers a smooth, sweet-tart balance with warm spice notes. Serve it immediately while hot, perhaps with a cozy blanket, or customize it by swapping honey for maple syrup for a deeper flavor twist.
Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Perfect for chilly evenings, this Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy combines warm apple cider with cozy spices and a kick of bourbon. It’s a simple, comforting drink that comes together in minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup apple cider (use fresh-pressed for best flavor, or store-bought)
– 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon)
– 2 whole cloves (optional, for extra spice)
– 1 tbsp honey (adjust to taste, or use maple syrup)
– 1 oz bourbon (or whiskey, rum for variation)
– 1 thin slice orange (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan.
2. Add 1 cinnamon stick and 2 whole cloves to the saucepan.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, about 3-4 minutes. Tip: Avoid boiling to preserve the cider’s flavor.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it steep for 1 minute to infuse the spices.
5. Strain the hot cider into a heatproof mug to remove the cinnamon stick and cloves.
6. Stir in 1 tbsp of honey until fully dissolved. Tip: Warm the honey slightly if it’s too thick to mix easily.
7. Add 1 oz of bourbon to the mug and stir gently to combine.
8. Garnish with 1 thin slice of orange, if desired. Tip: For a stronger citrus note, squeeze a bit of juice from the orange slice into the drink.
Vibrant with warm spices and a smooth bourbon finish, this toddy has a rich, slightly sweet texture that coats the palate. Serve it immediately in a cozy mug, perhaps with a cinnamon stick stirrer for extra aroma, making it ideal for sipping by the fire or as a festive holiday treat.
Bourbon Hot Toddy with Cinnamon Stick
Let’s warm up with a cozy, spiked drink perfect for chilly evenings. This bourbon hot toddy combines rich whiskey with sweet honey and warm spices for a comforting sip. It’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp honey, or maple syrup for a vegan option
– 1 cinnamon stick, plus extra for garnish if desired
– 1 oz bourbon whiskey, adjust to your preferred strength
– 1 lemon wedge, for squeezing
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of water into a small saucepan and place it over medium-high heat.
2. Heat the water until it reaches a gentle simmer, about 3–4 minutes; you should see small bubbles forming around the edges.
3. Add 2 tbsp of honey and 1 cinnamon stick to the simmering water, stirring continuously with a spoon until the honey fully dissolves, about 30 seconds.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately to prevent boiling, which can make the drink harsh.
5. Pour the hot honey-cinnamon mixture into a heatproof mug, using a strainer if you prefer to remove the cinnamon stick.
6. Add 1 oz of bourbon whiskey to the mug, stirring gently with the spoon to combine evenly.
7. Squeeze the juice from 1 lemon wedge directly into the mug, discarding the wedge or leaving it in for extra tartness.
8. Garnish with an additional cinnamon stick if desired, placing it in the mug for visual appeal and aroma.
Delight in this hot toddy’s smooth, warming texture with a balanced sweetness from honey and a hint of spice from cinnamon. The bourbon adds a robust depth that mellows as you sip, making it ideal for curling up by the fire or serving as a festive holiday drink with friends.
Ginger Tea Hot Toddy with Fresh Ginger
Warm up with this spicy-sweet ginger tea toddy that transforms basic ingredients into a comforting winter drink. Fresh ginger provides a zesty kick while honey and lemon balance the heat. It’s simple to make and perfect for chilly evenings.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 cups water
– 1 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced (or grated for stronger flavor)
– 2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
– 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey (optional, omit for non-alcoholic version)
– 2 cinnamon sticks (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Combine water and sliced ginger in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and turns golden.
4. Strain the ginger tea into two mugs, discarding the ginger slices.
5. Stir in honey until fully dissolved, tasting and adding more if desired.
6. Add lemon juice and mix well to combine.
7. Pour 1 oz of bourbon into each mug if using, stirring gently.
8. Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick for aroma.
Mellow and soothing, this toddy has a smooth texture with a bold ginger bite that lingers pleasantly. Serve it hot in a clear mug to showcase the golden hue, or pair it with a spiced cookie for a cozy treat. The warmth from the ginger and bourbon makes it ideal for sipping slowly by the fireplace.
Maple Syrup Hot Toddy with Orange Peel
Nothing beats a cozy winter evening like this maple syrup hot toddy. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and brightened with fresh orange peel, it’s the perfect warm-up drink for chilly nights. You’ll have it ready in just minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp pure maple syrup (grade A or B, adjust to taste)
– 1 oz bourbon whiskey (or substitute with rye whiskey)
– 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon)
– 3 whole cloves
– 1 strip orange peel (about 2 inches long, use a vegetable peeler)
– 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
Instructions
1. Combine 1 cup water, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 cinnamon stick, and 3 whole cloves in a small saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer (about 200°F), stirring occasionally to dissolve the maple syrup completely.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture steep for 3 minutes to infuse the spices.
4. While steeping, use a vegetable peeler to remove a 2-inch strip of peel from an orange, avoiding the bitter white pith.
5. After 3 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and discard the cinnamon stick and cloves using a slotted spoon.
6. Stir in 1 oz bourbon whiskey and 1 tsp fresh lemon juice if using.
7. Pour the hot toddy into a heatproof mug.
8. Twist the orange peel strip over the mug to release its oils, then drop it into the drink.
9. Serve immediately while hot.
For a richer flavor, toast the cinnamon stick lightly in a dry pan before adding it to the saucepan. The drink should have a smooth, warm texture with a balanced sweetness from the maple syrup. Its aromatic notes from the orange peel and spices make it ideal for sipping by the fireplace or garnishing with a fresh orange slice.
Vanilla Infused Hot Toddy with Star Anise
Grab a mug and get cozy—this vanilla-infused hot toddy is the ultimate winter warmer. Star anise adds a subtle licorice note that pairs perfectly with the sweet vanilla. It’s a simple, elegant twist on a classic cocktail that’s ready in minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 1 whole star anise pod
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
– 1 tbsp honey, adjust to taste
– 1.5 oz bourbon (or whiskey of choice)
– 1 lemon wedge, for garnish
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of water into a small saucepan and place it over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 whole star anise pod and the split vanilla bean to the water immediately.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—look for small bubbles forming around the edges of the pan, which should take about 3–4 minutes. Tip: Simmering, not boiling, extracts the flavors without bitterness.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture steep for 5 minutes to infuse the vanilla and star anise fully.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the star anise pod and vanilla bean using a slotted spoon.
6. Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey until it dissolves completely, about 30 seconds. Tip: Warm the honey slightly beforehand if it’s thick for easier mixing.
7. Pour 1.5 ounces of bourbon into a heatproof mug or glass.
8. Carefully pour the hot infused water over the bourbon in the mug.
9. Squeeze the juice from 1 lemon wedge directly into the drink and drop the wedge in for garnish. Tip: Use fresh lemon for a bright, zesty finish that cuts through the sweetness.
10. Stir the toddy gently once to combine all ingredients.
Nothing beats the smooth, aromatic blend of vanilla and star anise in this toddy—it’s fragrant with a hint of spice and a velvety warmth from the bourbon. Serve it immediately in a clear mug to showcase the star anise garnish, or pair it with a cozy blanket for the ultimate winter evening treat.
Green Tea Hot Toddy with Honey and Mint
Savor a soothing twist on the classic hot toddy with this green tea version. It combines the earthy notes of green tea with the warmth of whiskey and the sweetness of honey. Fresh mint adds a bright, aromatic finish that makes it perfect for chilly evenings.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water (filtered for best flavor)
– 1 green tea bag (or 1 tsp loose-leaf green tea)
– 1 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
– 1 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 4 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 lemon slice (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat, which should take about 3–4 minutes.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the green tea bag, steeping it for exactly 3 minutes to avoid bitterness.
3. While the tea steeps, place 1 tbsp honey and 4 mint leaves in a heatproof mug, muddling them gently with a spoon to release the mint’s oils.
4. After 3 minutes, discard the tea bag and pour the hot tea into the mug, stirring to dissolve the honey completely.
5. Add 1 oz whiskey to the mug and stir briefly to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Garnish with a lemon slice and extra mint leaves if desired, serving immediately while hot.
Resulting in a smooth, aromatic drink with a balanced blend of herbal tea, sweet honey, and warming whiskey. The mint provides a refreshing contrast, making it ideal for sipping slowly by the fireplace or as a cozy nightcap.
Chai Spiced Hot Toddy with Cardamom
Warm up chilly evenings with this aromatic twist on a classic cocktail. It blends traditional hot toddy warmth with fragrant chai spices for a cozy, comforting drink. Perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with friends during the holiday season.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 cups water
– 4 black tea bags (or 2 tbsp loose leaf black tea)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 8 whole green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
– 4 whole cloves
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
– ¼ cup honey (adjust to sweetness preference)
– 4 oz bourbon (or whiskey of choice)
– 2 lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
1. Combine 2 cups water, 2 cinnamon sticks, 8 crushed cardamom pods, 4 cloves, and 1-inch sliced ginger in a small saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the spices.
3. Add 4 black tea bags to the saucepan and steep for 3 minutes, pressing the bags gently to release flavor.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the tea bags using a slotted spoon.
5. Stir in ¼ cup honey until fully dissolved, about 30 seconds.
6. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into two heatproof mugs, pressing on the solids to extract liquid.
7. Pour 2 oz bourbon into each mug and stir to combine.
8. Garnish each mug with 1 lemon slice placed on the rim.
9. Serve immediately while hot, cautioning that the mugs will be warm to the touch.
Pour the toddy into insulated mugs to keep it hot longer, or add a splash of apple cider for a fruity variation. The drink offers a smooth, spiced warmth with hints of citrus from the lemon garnish, making it ideal for cozy gatherings or a quiet night in.
Rum Hot Toddy with Clove and Nutmeg
You’ll warm up fast with this spiced rum toddy—it’s cozy, aromatic, and perfect for chilly evenings. Just a few pantry staples transform into a soothing drink in minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp honey, or maple syrup for a vegan option
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 3 whole cloves
– ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg, or ground nutmeg if preferred
– 1½ oz dark rum, such as spiced rum for extra flavor
– 1 lemon slice, about ¼-inch thick
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of water into a small saucepan.
2. Add 1 cinnamon stick, 3 whole cloves, and ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg to the water.
3. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a gentle simmer, about 3–4 minutes. Tip: Simmering extracts the spices’ oils without boiling, which can make the drink bitter.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 tbsp honey until fully dissolved, about 30 seconds.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit for 1 minute to infuse further.
6. Strain the hot liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof mug to remove the whole spices.
7. Pour 1½ oz dark rum into the mug and stir gently to combine. Tip: Use a jigger for precise measurement to balance the alcohol without overpowering the spices.
8. Float 1 lemon slice on top of the drink. Tip: Gently squeeze the lemon slice before adding to release a bit of juice for a brighter flavor.
9. Serve immediately while hot.
Gently spiced and warmly aromatic, this toddy has a smooth, slightly sweet base with a hint of citrus from the lemon. For a festive touch, garnish with an extra cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of nutmeg right before serving.
Herbal Hot Toddy with Chamomile and Lavender
You’ve likely had a hot toddy before, but this herbal version elevates the classic. Chamomile and lavender add floral notes, while honey and lemon bring comforting sweetness and brightness. It’s the perfect cozy drink for a chilly evening.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 1 chamomile tea bag (or 1 tsp loose chamomile flowers)
– 1/2 tsp dried lavender buds (culinary grade only)
– 1 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
– 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1/2 lemon)
– 1 oz bourbon (or whiskey of choice)
– 1 lemon slice, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately add 1 chamomile tea bag and 1/2 tsp dried lavender buds. Tip: Steeping off the heat prevents bitterness from the lavender.
3. Cover the saucepan and let the herbs steep for 5 minutes to fully infuse the water.
4. While steeping, pour 1 oz bourbon into a heatproof mug.
5. After 5 minutes, remove the tea bag and strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into the mug to catch the lavender buds. Tip: Pressing the herbs gently extracts more flavor without making the drink cloudy.
6. Stir in 1 tbsp honey until completely dissolved.
7. Add 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice and stir to combine. Tip: Add the lemon juice last to preserve its bright, fresh flavor.
8. Garnish with 1 lemon slice if desired.
Both floral and soothing, this toddy has a smooth, aromatic warmth from the herbs. For a creative twist, try it with a cinnamon stick stirrer or a drizzle of maple syrup instead of honey.
Peppermint Hot Toddy with Candy Cane Garnish
Unwind with a cozy twist on a classic winter warmer. This Peppermint Hot Toddy is a festive, soothing drink perfect for chilly evenings. It’s quick to make and uses simple ingredients for a comforting treat.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp honey, or adjust to taste
– 1 oz bourbon, or substitute with whiskey
– 1 peppermint tea bag
– 1 candy cane, for garnish
– 1 lemon wedge, for squeezing
Instructions
1. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat.
2. Place 1 peppermint tea bag in a heatproof mug.
3. Pour the boiling water over the tea bag in the mug.
4. Steep the tea for 3 minutes, then remove and discard the tea bag.
5. Stir in 1 tbsp of honey until fully dissolved.
6. Add 1 oz of bourbon to the mug and stir gently to combine.
7. Squeeze the juice from 1 lemon wedge directly into the drink.
8. Garnish by placing 1 candy cane on the rim of the mug.
9. Serve immediately while hot.
Nothing beats the warm, minty aroma as you sip this toddy. The honey adds a smooth sweetness that balances the bourbon’s kick, while the candy cane slowly infuses a subtle peppermint flavor. For a fun twist, crush the candy cane and sprinkle it on top before serving.
Whiskey Hot Toddy with Brown Sugar
Huddle up for a cozy, cold-weather classic. This whiskey hot toddy with brown sugar is a simple, soul-warming drink that comes together in minutes. It’s the perfect remedy for a chilly evening or a festive holiday treat.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 1 ½ oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 tbsp brown sugar, packed (adjust for sweetness)
– 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed (about ½ a lemon)
– 1 cinnamon stick (or a pinch of ground cinnamon)
– 2 whole cloves (optional for extra spice)
– 1 thin lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of water into a small saucepan and place it over medium-high heat.
2. Bring the water to a rolling boil, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. While the water heats, measure 1 ½ oz of whiskey into a heatproof mug or glass.
4. Add 1 tbsp of packed brown sugar to the mug with the whiskey.
5. Squeeze 1 tbsp of fresh lemon juice directly into the mug, avoiding any seeds.
6. Once the water boils, carefully pour it into the mug over the whiskey, sugar, and lemon juice.
7. Stir the mixture vigorously with a spoon for 30 seconds until the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
8. Drop 1 cinnamon stick and 2 whole cloves into the hot liquid to infuse.
9. Let the toddy steep for 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
10. Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves from the drink using a spoon.
11. Garnish the top with 1 thin lemon slice placed on the rim of the mug.
12. Serve the hot toddy immediately while it’s still steaming hot.
Vibrant with a smooth, caramel-like sweetness from the brown sugar, this toddy has a warm whiskey kick balanced by bright lemon. The cinnamon and cloves add a subtle, aromatic spice that lingers. For a creative twist, try serving it with a drizzle of honey or a splash of apple cider for extra depth.
Cranberry Hot Toddy with Orange Zest
Banish winter chills with this vibrant, spiced cranberry hot toddy. Bright orange zest cuts through the tartness, creating a cozy drink that warms from the inside out. It’s a festive twist on a classic, perfect for holiday evenings or quiet nights in.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 cups cranberry juice (100% juice, not cocktail, for best flavor)
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste, or use maple syrup for a vegan option)
– 4 whole cloves
– 2 cinnamon sticks (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
– 1 orange, zested (about 1 tbsp zest, use a microplane for fine zest)
– 4 oz bourbon or whiskey (optional, omit for a non-alcoholic version)
– Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Combine 2 cups cranberry juice, 1 cup water, 2 tbsp honey, 4 whole cloves, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the honey completely—this should take about 3–4 minutes. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavors.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the spices, stirring once halfway through. The liquid will turn a deep red and become fragrant.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 tbsp orange zest, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Let it sit for 1 minute to allow the zest to steep.
5. Strain the hot liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher or directly into mugs to remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks.
6. If using alcohol, divide 4 oz bourbon or whiskey evenly between two mugs, then pour the strained hot cranberry mixture over it. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the alcohol and pour directly.
7. Garnish each mug with fresh cranberries and an orange slice if desired, serving immediately while hot.
Zesty orange notes mingle with warm spices, yielding a tart yet sweet sip with a smooth, comforting finish. Serve it in clear mugs to showcase the deep red hue, or pair with shortbread cookies for a festive touch.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Toddy with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Let’s warm up this holiday season with a cozy twist on a classic cocktail. This Pumpkin Spice Hot Toddy combines familiar fall flavors with a comforting hot drink. Top it with homemade cinnamon whipped cream for an extra festive touch.
Serving: 2 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (canned works perfectly)
– 2 tbsp honey (adjust for sweetness)
– 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
– 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon)
– 2 oz bourbon (optional, omit for a non-alcoholic version)
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Combine 2 cups water, 1/4 cup pumpkin puree, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, and 1 cinnamon stick in a small saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it just begins to simmer (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture steep for 3 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
4. While the toddy base steeps, pour 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream into a chilled mixing bowl.
5. Add 1 tbsp powdered sugar and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon to the cream.
6. Use a hand mixer or whisk to whip the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes). Tip: Chill your bowl and beaters beforehand for faster whipping.
7. Remove the cinnamon stick from the toddy base using a spoon.
8. Stir in 2 oz bourbon (if using) into the hot toddy base.
9. Divide the hot toddy mixture evenly between two mugs. Tip: Preheat your mugs with hot water for a minute to keep the drink warmer longer.
10. Top each mug generously with the prepared cinnamon whipped cream.
11. Serve immediately. Tip: Garnish with an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or a small cinnamon stick for presentation.
Just the right balance of sweet pumpkin and warm spices makes this toddy incredibly soothing. The creamy topping melts slightly into the hot drink, creating a luxurious texture. Try serving it with a gingerbread cookie on the side for a complete holiday treat.
Earl Grey Hot Toddy with Bergamot Essence
Perfect for a chilly evening, this Earl Grey Hot Toddy combines the citrusy notes of bergamot with warming whiskey. Prepare it in under 10 minutes for a soothing, aromatic drink.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 Earl Grey tea bag (or 1 tsp loose-leaf tea in an infuser)
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
– 1 oz bourbon whiskey (or any whiskey you prefer)
– 1 tsp bergamot essence (or 1 strip of orange peel for garnish)
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat and steep the Earl Grey tea bag in the hot water for 4 minutes for optimal flavor extraction.
3. Discard the tea bag and stir in 1 tbsp of honey until fully dissolved.
4. Pour the tea mixture into a heatproof mug.
5. Add 1 oz of bourbon whiskey to the mug and stir gently to combine.
6. Stir in 1 tsp of bergamot essence for a citrusy aroma.
7. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a strip of orange peel if desired.
8. Serve immediately while hot.
Keep it cozy with this toddy, which offers a smooth, warming texture and a balanced blend of floral tea and sweet whiskey. For a creative twist, try it with a splash of lemon juice or serve alongside shortbread cookies.
Smoky Hot Toddy with Mezcal and Lime
Grab a mug and get ready for a smoky twist on the classic hot toddy. This mezcal version cuts through winter chills with a bold, citrusy kick. It’s a five-minute warm-up that feels like a cozy campfire in a cup.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp honey, or maple syrup for a vegan option
– 1 oz mezcal, preferably joven for a smoky flavor
– 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, about half a lime
– 1 cinnamon stick, or a pinch of ground cinnamon
– 1 whole clove, optional for extra spice
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of water into a small saucepan and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil, about 2 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 tbsp honey until fully dissolved, about 30 seconds—warming the honey helps it blend smoothly.
3. Add 1 cinnamon stick and 1 whole clove to the saucepan, then simmer for 1 minute to infuse the flavors without boiling.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the cinnamon stick and clove using a spoon.
5. Pour the infused honey water into a heatproof mug, leaving room for the remaining ingredients.
6. Stir in 1 oz mezcal and 1 tbsp fresh lime juice until well combined—adding the alcohol off-heat preserves its smoky character.
7. Let the drink sit for 30 seconds to allow the flavors to meld before serving hot.
The result is a warm, aromatic drink with a silky texture from the honey and a sharp citrus tang. Serve it garnished with a lime wedge or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra festive touch on a cold evening.
Almond Hot Toddy with Amaretto and Almond Milk
You’ll want this cozy, nutty toddy when the chill sets in. It’s a soothing twist on the classic, blending amaretto’s warmth with creamy almond milk. Perfect for sipping by the fire or as a festive nightcap.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
– 1 ½ oz amaretto liqueur
– 1 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2 whole cloves
– 1 lemon slice (about ¼-inch thick)
– 1 oz bourbon (optional, for a stronger kick)
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk into a small saucepan.
2. Add 1 cinnamon stick and 2 whole cloves to the saucepan.
3. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer, about 4–5 minutes; do not boil to prevent curdling.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 tbsp of honey until fully dissolved.
5. Pour the heated mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a heatproof mug to remove the spices.
6. Add 1 ½ oz of amaretto liqueur to the mug and stir gently to combine.
7. If using, add 1 oz of bourbon and stir again.
8. Float 1 lemon slice on top of the drink for a citrusy aroma.
9. Serve immediately while hot. Garnish gets a subtle infusion as it steeps.
Gently spiced and velvety, this toddy offers a smooth almond flavor with a hint of citrus. Try it with a sprinkle of nutmeg or alongside gingerbread cookies for a festive pairing.
Citrus Hot Toddy with Grapefruit and Thyme
Perfect for chilly evenings, this citrus hot toddy warms you from the inside out. It combines bright grapefruit with earthy thyme for a sophisticated twist on a classic. You’ll have it ready in minutes.
Serving: 1 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice, strained to remove pulp (about 1 medium grapefruit)
– 1 tbsp honey, or adjust for sweetness
– 1 oz bourbon, or substitute with whiskey
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, plus more for garnish
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 slice fresh grapefruit, for garnish
Instructions
1. Combine 1 cup water, 1/2 cup grapefruit juice, 1 tbsp honey, 2 thyme sprigs, and 1 cinnamon stick in a small saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to dissolve the honey.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it steep for 2 minutes to infuse the thyme and cinnamon flavors.
4. Strain the liquid into a heatproof mug to remove the thyme sprigs and cinnamon stick.
5. Stir in 1 oz bourbon until fully incorporated.
6. Garnish with a fresh grapefruit slice and an additional thyme sprig.
7. Serve immediately while hot.
Gently aromatic and soothing, this toddy has a smooth, slightly tart flavor balanced by the warmth of bourbon. The thyme adds an herbal note that complements the citrus perfectly. For a festive touch, rim the mug with sugar or serve it alongside a spiced cookie.
Summary
Zesty and soothing, these hot toddy recipes are your perfect winter companions. Whether you crave classic comfort or creative twists, there’s a cozy mug waiting for you. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—leave a comment below! Don’t forget to share these warming ideas on Pinterest so friends can enjoy them too. Stay warm and cheers to delicious nights in!
