As the temperature drops and winter sets in, there’s nothing like a warm, cozy drink to brighten up a chilly night. Hot toddies are just the thing to do so – a soothing blend of spirits, sweetener, and spices that can ease even the most stubborn coughs and soothe your soul. With so many variations out there, we’ve rounded up 18 of our favorite hot toddy recipes to try this winter. From classic whiskey and honey combinations to more adventurous infusions like spiced apple cider and gingerbread, there’s something for every taste bud and cold-weather craving.
Classic Whiskey Hot Toddy
Warm up with this soothing, spirit-filled drink perfect for cold winter nights or when you need a pick-me-up any time of the year. The combination of whiskey, honey, and spices will have you feeling cozy in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces whiskey (bourbon or your preferred type)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 6 oz hot water
– Lemon slice or wedge for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a preheated mug, combine whiskey, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Add hot water and stir until the honey dissolves.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level to your liking.
4. Garnish with a lemon slice or wedge.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy.
Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy
As the temperatures drop, warm up with a soothing Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy that combines the flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup boiling water
– Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine apple cider, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Add boiling water to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the hot toddy into a new mug, if desired.
5. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Serves: 1
Bourbon Maple Hot Toddy
Warm up with this comforting blend of bourbon, maple syrup, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
– 1/2 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1 cup hot water
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine bourbon, maple syrup, lemon slice, cinnamon stick, and spices.
2. Add hot water to the mug, stirring until the mixture is warm and well combined.
3. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the spices from the liquid before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Honey Lemon Ginger Hot Toddy
Warm up with this soothing drink perfect for cold winter nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. This Honey Lemon Ginger Hot Toddy combines the comforting flavors of honey, lemon, and ginger to create a cozy and calming beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup hot water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring the hot water to a simmer.
2. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the lemon juice and grated ginger. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain the mixture into a mug, if desired. Add cinnamon, if using.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Hot Toddy
This comforting hot toddy is infused with the citrusy flavor of Earl Grey tea, perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather. With its soothing properties and subtle bergamot taste, this drink is sure to ease your congestion and leave you feeling cozy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed Earl Grey tea
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 lemon slice
– 1/2 cup hot water
– 1 tablespoon bourbon or whiskey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the brewed Earl Grey tea and honey.
2. Add the ground ginger and stir until dissolved.
3. Squeeze in the lemon slice and drop it in.
4. Add the hot water and stir to combine.
5. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of bourbon or whiskey for an adult twist.
Cooking Time: None (simply mix and serve)
Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy
As the weather cools down, a warm and comforting drink is just what you need to relax and unwind. This Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy recipe combines the spices of traditional chai tea with the sweetness of vanilla and a hint of honey, making it the perfect remedy for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea (such as Assam or Ceylon)
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1 tablespoon loose-leaf chai spice blend (or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom, and 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Lemon slice or wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large mug, combine the brewed tea, milk, chai spice blend (or individual spices), and vanilla extract.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or spiciness as desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a lemon slice or wedge if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just brew the tea!)
Rum and Cinnamon Hot Toddy
Warm Up with a Rum and Cinnamon Hot Toddy
This soothing drink combines the spicy warmth of cinnamon with the smoothness of rum, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 1 cup hot water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Lemon slice or cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mug, combine the hot water and honey. Stir until the honey dissolves.
2. Add the dark rum and stir gently to combine.
3. Add the ground cinnamon and stir again to distribute evenly.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level to your liking.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice or cinnamon stick, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
Enjoy your warm and cozy Rum and Cinnamon Hot Toddy!
Spiced Cranberry Hot Toddy
Warming up with a Spiced Cranberry Hot Toddy is the perfect way to cozy up on a chilly day. This refreshing drink combines the sweetness of cranberries, the spiciness of cinnamon and cloves, and the soothing qualities of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup boiling water
– 2 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the cranberry juice and boiling water.
2. Add the honey, stirring until dissolved.
3. Add the cinnamon and cloves, stirring to combine.
4. Slice the lemon and add it to the mug.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (simply mix and serve)
Peppermint Hot Toddy
Soothe your senses with this refreshing twist on the classic hot toddy. This Peppermint Hot Toddy is perfect for a cold winter’s night, combining the warmth of whiskey and honey with the invigorating zing of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon dried peppermint leaves
– 1/2 cup hot water
– Lemon slice or wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine whiskey, honey, and peppermint leaves.
2. Add hot water to the mug and stir until the honey dissolves and the peppermint is fully incorporated.
3. Let the mixture steep for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the liquid into a new mug, if desired, to remove the peppermint leaves.
5. Garnish with lemon slice or wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Smoky Mezcal Hot Toddy
Warm up with this smoky twist on the classic hot toddy, featuring mezcal and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Mezcal
– 1/2 cup Water
– 1/4 cup Honey Syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 2 slices Fresh Ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer.
2. Add the honey syrup, ginger slices, and cinnamon. Stir until the honey dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and add the Mezcal.
4. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Strain the mixture into a mug or glass.
6. Taste and adjust with salt as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Clove Hot Toddy
As the seasons change and the weather cools, a warm and comforting drink is just what you need to relax and unwind. This Orange Clove Hot Toddy recipe combines the sweetness of orange with the warmth of cloves for a delightful winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
– Lemon slices or orange wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and honey. Heat over medium heat until the honey dissolves.
2. Add orange juice and stir to combine.
3. Add whole cloves and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is fragrant.
4. Strain the liquid into a mug or teapot. Discard the solids.
5. If desired, add ground cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices or orange wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your soothing Orange Clove Hot Toddy!
Lavender Honey Hot Toddy
This soothing drink combines the natural antibacterial properties of honey, the calming effects of lavender, and the comforting warmth of hot water to help ease a sore throat. Perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp dried lavender buds
– Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
– Slice of lemon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine boiling water and honey. Stir until the honey dissolves.
2. Add dried lavender buds to the mixture and let it steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has cooled slightly.
3. Strain the mixture into another mug, discarding the lavender buds.
4. Squeeze in some lemon juice (if using) and add a slice of lemon (if desired).
5. Enjoy your soothing Lavender Honey Hot Toddy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Gingerbread Hot Toddy
This sweet and spicy drink is perfect for chilly winter evenings. With the warmth of ginger, the comfort of honey, and the kick of whiskey, this hot toddy is sure to become your new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thin
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 ounce whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– Lemon slice or lemon juice for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and sliced ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the ginger is tender.
2. Strain the ginger mixture into a mug. Add honey, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir until the honey dissolves.
3. Add whiskey and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lemon slice or squeeze of juice.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Pomegranate Rosemary Hot Toddy
Warm up with this unique hot toddy recipe that combines the tartness of pomegranate with the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a chilly evening, this drink is sure to soothe your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– Lemon slices (optional)
– Hot water
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice and honey. Heat over low heat, stirring until the honey dissolves.
2. Add bourbon or whiskey to the saucepan and stir to combine.
3. Remove from heat and add rosemary sprigs. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture into a mug. Discard the rosemary.
5. Top with hot water, if desired.
6. Garnish with lemon slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cardamom Vanilla Hot Toddy
This soothing drink combines the spices of cardamom with the sweetness of vanilla, making it the perfect remedy for a chilly evening or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 cup strong brewed black tea, cooled
– Whipped cream and ground cardamom for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, honey, cardamom, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat over low heat, whisking occasionally, until the honey dissolves and the mixture is warm (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
4. Add cooled black tea and whisk to combine.
5. Pour into mugs and garnish with whipped cream and ground cardamom, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Hot Buttered Rum Toddy
This classic winter drink combines the comforting warmth of rum with the soothing qualities of butter and spices, perfect for chilly evenings or as a post-dinner treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot (1.5 oz) dark rum
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons honey syrup (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup hot water
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the honey syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the rum.
4. Pour in the hot water and whisk until smooth.
5. Serve immediately in a mug or glass.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your Hot Buttered Rum Toddy as a cozy treat to warm up on a chilly day.
Chamomile Honey Hot Toddy
Chamomile Honey Hot Toddy is a calming and soothing drink that can help ease a sore throat and promote relaxation. With the gentle warmth of tea, the sweetness of honey, and the calming properties of chamomile, this hot toddy is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 teaspoons dried chamomile flowers
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. Steep the chamomile flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has cooled slightly.
2. Strain the tea into a mug and add honey to taste.
3. Add lemon juice and stir well.
4. If desired, add ground ginger and cinnamon stick for an extra boost of flavor.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spiced Pear Hot Toddy
This soothing drink combines the sweetness of pear with the spices of cinnamon and ginger to create a comforting and relaxing beverage perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 2 cups water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2-3 slices fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Whipped cream or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine diced pear, water, cinnamon stick, and ginger slices.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large mug or teapot.
4. Add honey, ground cloves, and nutmeg to taste. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with whipped cream or heavy cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Warm up on cold nights with these 18 cozy hot toddy recipes. From classic whiskey to creative twists like spiced apple cider and honey lemon ginger, there’s something for everyone. Try bourbon maple for a sweet and smooth drink, or rum and cinnamon for a spicy kick. Get adventurous with smoky mezcal or cardamom vanilla, or stick to tried-and-true flavors like peppermint or orange clove. Whichever you choose, these hot toddies are sure to become your new go-to for chilly evenings.
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