Hot Toddy is the ultimate cozy winter cocktail — warm, soothing, and gently spiced with honey, lemon, and whiskey. It’s the perfect drink to sip by the fire, unwind after a long day, or soothe a sore throat on a chilly evening. With its comforting blend of citrus, sweetness, and a touch of whiskey warmth, the Hot Toddy is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.
🍯 Hot Toddy Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces whiskey (bourbon, rye, or Irish whiskey)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
- ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup hot water (not boiling)
- Optional: cinnamon stick, star anise, or clove for garnish
- Lemon slice or peel, for garnish
🧉 How To Make Hot Toddy
- Warm your mug: Pour hot water into your mug to preheat it, then discard.
- Mix the drink: Add whiskey, honey, and lemon juice to the mug.
- Add hot water: Pour in the hot water and stir until the honey dissolves completely.
- Garnish: Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or lemon slice for a fragrant finishing touch.
- Serve: Sip slowly and enjoy while warm.
💭 Recipe Tips
- Adjust sweetness: Add more or less honey depending on your taste.
- Try different spirits: Swap whiskey for rum or brandy for a twist.
- Add spice: A pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove adds depth.
- For a stronger lemon flavor: Add a lemon peel twist or an extra splash of juice.
- Soothe a cold: Replace half the hot water with herbal tea for a natural, comforting remedy.
🍪 What To Serve With a Hot Toddy?
Pair your Hot Toddy with cozy winter treats like ginger cookies, apple pie or cinnamon rolls. It’s also perfect alongside cheese boards or savory appetizers at holiday gatherings.
🎚 How To Store Leftovers Hot Toddy Components?
- Make ahead: You can mix the whiskey, honey, and lemon juice in advance and store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add hot water just before serving.
- Do not store mixed drinks: The fresh lemon juice is best enjoyed right away for bright flavor.
FAQs
What’s the best whiskey for a Hot Toddy?
Bourbon adds sweetness, rye gives a spicier kick, and Irish whiskey makes it smooth and mellow — all work well depending on your taste.
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Yes! Replace whiskey with hot tea or apple cider for a comforting mocktail version.
Can I add tea to my Hot Toddy?
Absolutely — black tea or chamomile adds flavor and warmth while keeping it soothing.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup gives a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with whiskey.
📊 Hot Toddy Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Total Carbohydrates: 13g
- Sugars: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
Hot Toddy Recipe
Course: DrinksCuisine: American1
servings5
minutes160
kcalThis Hot Toddy Recipe blends whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water for a warm, comforting winter drink that’s simple, soothing, and perfect for cold nights.
Ingredients
1 ½ ounces whiskey (bourbon, rye, or Irish whiskey)
1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
½ cup hot water (not boiling)
Optional: cinnamon stick, star anise, or clove for garnish
Lemon slice or peel, for garnish
Directions
- Mix whiskey, honey, and lemon juice in a mug.
- Add hot water and stir until honey dissolves.
- Garnish with a lemon slice or cinnamon stick.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness: Add more or less honey depending on your taste.
Try different spirits: Swap whiskey for rum or brandy for a twist.
Add spice: A pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove adds depth.
For a stronger lemon flavor: Add a lemon peel twist or an extra splash of juice.
Soothe a cold: Replace half the hot water with herbal tea for a natural, comforting remedy.