As the temperature drops and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and comforting drink. Enter the humble hot toddy, a wintertime staple that never goes out of style. With its soothing blend of spirits, spices, and sweetener, this classic cocktail is the perfect remedy for a cold winter night.
Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or simply need a pick-me-up on a chilly evening, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 cozy hot toddy recipes. From classic combinations featuring honey and lemon to more adventurous concoctions infused with spices and herbs, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. So grab your favorite mug and get ready to cozy up with these delicious and warming winter drinks.
Classic Hot Toddy with Honey and Lemon
Soothe your throat and warm your soul with this timeless recipe that combines the comfort of honey, lemon, and whiskey. A perfect remedy for a chilly evening or when feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz Whiskey (Bourbon or Scotch work well)
• 1 tablespoon Honey
• 1 tablespoon Freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
• 1 cup Hot Water
• Optional: Slice of Lemon and Sprig of Rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a preheated mug, combine whiskey, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Add hot water to the mixture, stirring until the honey dissolves.
3. Stir gently to combine and adjust sweetness to taste.
4. Enjoy immediately, or let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This warm drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Warm up with this soothing and flavorful drink, perfect for chilly fall and winter evenings. This Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy is a twist on the classic hot toddy, featuring the comforting flavors of apple cider and warming spices.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/4 cup bourbon or whiskey (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 6 cloves
• 1 lemon slice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the honey dissolves.
2. Add the cinnamon stick and cloves to the cider mixture. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the spices have infused.
3. Remove from heat and add bourbon or whiskey, if using. Stir well.
4. Strain the hot toddy into a mug. Add a lemon slice to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bourbon Hot Toddy with Cinnamon Stick
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting bourbon-based hot toddy, infused with the sweet and spicy flavors of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6-8 ounces hot water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine bourbon, honey, and lemon slices.
2. Add the broken cinnamon stick to the mixture.
3. Pour in the hot water, stirring gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spiciness as needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with an additional cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (simply pour and serve)
Ginger Tea Hot Toddy with Fresh Ginger
When you’re feeling under the weather, a warm and comforting drink can be just what the doctor ordered. This Ginger Tea Hot Toddy recipe uses fresh ginger to create a soothing and flavorful brew that’s perfect for when you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced ginger and water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the ginger is tender.
3. Strain the tea into a mug, discarding the solids.
4. Add honey, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar (if using) to taste.
5. Stir well and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Maple Syrup Hot Toddy with Orange Peel
Warm Up with a Maple Syrup Hot Toddy with Orange Peel
This soothing drink combines the comfort of hot toddies with the sweetness of maple syrup and the brightness of orange peel, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup hot water
– 1 slice of orange, peeled and discarded, then torn into thin strips
– Honey to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the whiskey, lemon juice, and maple syrup over low heat.
2. Add the hot water and stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
3. Remove from heat and add the torn orange peel. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the drink into a mug or glass, discarding the orange peel.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including steeping time)
Vanilla Infused Hot Toddy with Star Anise
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and aromatic hot toddy recipe, infused with the sweet flavors of vanilla and star anise. This soothing drink is perfect for when you need a pick-me-up or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 4-6 whole cloves
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground star anise
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 shot of your preferred whiskey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract, ground star anise, and honey. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
3. Strain the liquid into a mug or teapot to serve. If desired, add a shot of whiskey for an adult twist.
4. Enjoy hot, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a sprig of rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Green Tea Hot Toddy with Honey and Mint
This gentle hot toddy combines the soothing properties of green tea, honey, and mint to ease a sore throat and calm your mind. Perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 green tea bag
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. Steep the green tea bag in boiling water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Remove the tea bag and add honey, stirring until dissolved.
3. Add fresh mint leaves to the tea and let it steep for another minute.
4. Strain the mixture into a cup or mug.
5. If desired, add lemon juice and ground ginger to taste.
6. Enjoy your soothing Green Tea Hot Toddy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chai Spiced Hot Toddy with Cardamom
Warm up with a soothing cup of Chai Spiced Hot Toddy infused with the aromatic sweetness of cardamom. This comforting drink is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a moment of relaxation.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 lemon, sliced
– Whipped cream or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the tea leaves, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the ground cardamom. Let steep for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid into a large mug. Discard the solids.
5. Add honey and lemon slices to taste.
6. If desired, top with whipped cream or heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rum Hot Toddy with Clove and Nutmeg
Warm Up with a Spiced Rum Hot Toddy
This comforting drink combines the soothing properties of honey and lemon with the spicy warmth of clove and nutmeg, perfect for a cold winter’s night. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously relaxing beverage to ease your spirits.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 1 tsp honey
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 tsp ground clove
– 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
– Hot water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat until it dissolves.
2. Add the lemon juice and whisk to combine.
3. Add the rum, clove, and nutmeg; stir until well combined.
4. Fill a mug with hot water and add the rum mixture.
5. Stir gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on desired temperature)
Herbal Hot Toddy with Chamomile and Lavender
Soften your evening routine with this soothing hot toddy, infused with the calming properties of chamomile and lavender.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 teaspoons dried chamomile flowers
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 shot of whiskey (optional)
– Lemon slice or wheel (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine boiling water and dried chamomile flowers. Let steep for 5 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture into a mug, discarding the solids.
3. Add dried lavender buds to the liquid and let steep for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and add honey, stirring until dissolved.
5. If desired, add a shot of whiskey or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a lemon slice or wheel if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Hot Toddy with Candy Cane Garnish
Warm up with this festive twist on the classic hot toddy, featuring peppermint and a sweet candy cane garnish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 cup strong brewed tea (peppermint or earl grey work well)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 lemon slice
– Candy canes, crushed or whole for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the brewed tea over low heat.
2. Add the bourbon and honey to the tea, stirring until dissolved.
3. Slice the lemon into thin pieces and add them to the mixture.
4. Pour the hot toddy into a mug or heatproof glass.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes or a whole candy cane.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on desired temperature)
Whiskey Hot Toddy with Brown Sugar
This classic cocktail combines the warmth of whiskey with the soothing properties of honey and lemon, making it a perfect remedy for cold winter nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this comforting drink in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1 tsp Brown Sugar
– 1/2 tsp Honey
– 1/2 Lemon, sliced
– 1 Cup Hot Water
– Lemon Slice and Sprig of Rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mug, combine whiskey, brown sugar, and honey.
2. Add sliced lemon to the mixture.
3. Pour in hot water to fill the mug.
4. Stir until the brown sugar and honey dissolve.
5. Garnish with additional lemon slice and rosemary sprig, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve as soon as you mix the ingredients together.
Cranberry Hot Toddy with Orange Zest
This Cranberry Hot Toddy with Orange Zest is a perfect remedy for cold winter nights. The combination of warm spices, sweet cranberries, and invigorating citrus will leave you feeling cozy and refreshed.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup boiling water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Slice of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine cranberry juice and boiling water.
2. Stir in honey until dissolved.
3. Add orange juice, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir well.
4. Serve hot, garnished with a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your Cranberry Hot Toddy with Orange Zest!
Pumpkin Spice Hot Toddy with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Warm up with a delicious and aromatic fall drink, perfect for crisp autumn nights. This Pumpkin Spice Hot Toddy with Cinnamon Whipped Cream is a delightful twist on the classic hot toddy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed pumpkin spice tea
– 1/2 cup bourbon or whiskey (optional)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Brew the pumpkin spice tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large mug, combine the brewed tea and bourbon (if using).
3. Add honey to taste and stir until dissolved.
4. Remove cinnamon stick from tea bag or pot and add to the mug.
5. To make Cinnamon Whipped Cream, whip heavy cream with sugar and salt until stiff peaks form.
6. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top of whipped cream.
7. Serve hot toddy immediately, topped with a dollop of Cinnamon Whipped Cream.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just brew the tea!)
Earl Grey Hot Toddy with Bergamot Essence
Elevate your hot toddy game with this unique twist on a classic recipe, combining the comforting warmth of tea and spices with the bright, citrusy notes of bergamot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed Earl Grey tea
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon bergamot essence (optional, but highly recommended for a unique flavor)
– 1 shot of your preferred whiskey or liquor (about 1-2 ounces)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine brewed Earl Grey tea, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, and ginger.
2. Stir until the honey dissolves, creating a smooth, comforting base for your hot toddy.
3. Add bergamot essence to taste (start with a small amount and adjust to your liking).
4. Pour in your preferred whiskey or liquor.
5. Stir well to combine, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy recipe that’s ready when you are.
Smoky Hot Toddy with Mezcal and Lime
Warm up with this spicy twist on the classic hot toddy, featuring smoky mezcal and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz mezcal
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup hot water
– Thin slice of lime, for garnish
– Sprig of fresh mint, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the water over low heat.
2. Add the honey syrup and whisk until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add the mezcal and lime juice. Stir to combine.
4. Pour into a mug or glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a thin slice of lime and a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Almond Hot Toddy with Amaretto and Almond Milk
Warm up on a chilly evening with this soothing and flavorful hot toddy, infused with the sweetness of almonds. The combination of almond milk, amaretto, and honey creates a rich and velvety texture that’s perfect for sipping by the fire.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 shot of amaretto (about 1.5 ounces)
– Slice of lemon, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the almond milk over medium heat.
2. Add the honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until the honey dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and add the amaretto.
4. Pour into a mug and garnish with a slice of lemon.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Citrus Hot Toddy with Grapefruit and Thyme
Soothe your senses with this refreshing twist on the classic hot toddy, featuring tangy grapefruit and fragrant thyme. This citrusy concoction is perfect for a cozy night in or a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup bourbon or whiskey (optional)
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
– Slices of grapefruit, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and add grapefruit juice, honey, and thyme. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a teapot or mug.
4. Add bourbon or whiskey, if desired.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional grapefruit slices.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 18 hot toddy recipes, each one perfect for a cold night. From classic combinations like honey and lemon to more unique flavor profiles like spiced apple cider and smoky mezcal, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include bourbon and cinnamon, ginger tea and fresh ginger, and even herbal options like chamomile and lavender. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a warm pick-me-up, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
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