As the temperature drops and winter’s chill sets in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a cozy cup of hot toddy. The perfect blend of soothing spices, sweet honey, and rich spirits, this classic wintertime drink has been a staple for centuries. And while some may think it’s just a simple mix of whiskey, lemon, and honey, we’re here to show you that the possibilities are endless.
From classic combinations like whisky and honey to more adventurous takes featuring ingredients like gingerbread, cranberry, and pomegranate, our collection of 20 cozy hot toddy recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and soothing or spicy and invigorating, we’ve got you covered with these delicious and easy-to-make drinks.
So grab your favorite mug, snuggle up by the fire, and let’s dive into the world of hot toddies!
Classic Whisky Hot Toddy with Honey and Lemon
Warm up on a chilly day with this soothing and flavorful hot toddy recipe, featuring the smoothness of whisky, the sweetness of honey, and the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces good-quality whisky (such as scotch or bourbon)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 cup hot water
– Lemon slice or wedge for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the whisky and honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add the lemon juice to the mug and stir gently.
3. Pour in the hot water and stir well to combine.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness to your liking.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice or wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve as soon as you’ve prepared it.
Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy
As the weather cools down, warm up with this soothing Spiced Apple Cider Hot Toddy that combines the comfort of a classic hot toddy with the sweet and spicy flavors of apple cider.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup bourbon or whiskey (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1 lemon slice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, bourbon or whiskey, and honey.
2. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and add the cinnamon stick and cloves.
4. Let it steep for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Strain the toddy into mugs, reserving the spices.
6. Add a lemon slice to each mug for garnish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bourbon Maple Hot Toddy
Warm up with a sweet and soothing twist on the classic hot toddy. This Bourbon Maple Hot Toddy combines the comfort of bourbon, honey, and spices with the richness of pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot (1.5 oz) bourbon
– 1 tablespoon pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 lemon, sliced
– 4-6 black tea bags or to taste
– 1 cinnamon stick, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the bourbon, maple syrup, and honey.
2. Add the sliced lemon and stir until the honey is dissolved.
3. Steep the tea bags in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, then remove.
4. Add the brewed tea to the mug, leaving room at the top.
5. Stir gently to combine. If desired, add a cinnamon stick garnish.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (not including brewing time)
Earl Grey Tea Hot Toddy
As the weather cools down, a warm and soothing drink is just what you need to unwind. This Earl Grey Tea Hot Toddy recipe combines the comforting flavors of tea, honey, and lemon with a hint of bergamot from the Earl Grey tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed Earl Grey tea
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Juice of 1/2 lemon
– 1/2 cup hot water
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the brewed Earl Grey tea and honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add the ground cinnamon and ginger to the tea mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Squeeze in the juice of 1/2 lemon.
4. Add hot water to the mug, filling it to your desired temperature.
5. Stir gently and serve.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a warm drink that’s ready to be enjoyed immediately!
Gingerbread Hot Toddy with Dark Rum
This seasonal twist on the classic hot toddy combines the warmth of gingerbread spices with the richness of dark rum, perfect for cozying up on a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 shot (1.5 oz) dark rum
– Lemon slice or juice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, honey, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium heat, whisking until honey dissolves.
2. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour into a pre-warmed mug.
4. Add dark rum; stir gently.
5. Garnish with lemon slice or squeeze a dash of juice.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 1
Cranberry Orange Hot Toddy
Warm up with this refreshing twist on a classic hot toddy, perfect for cold winter days. This recipe combines the tanginess of cranberries and orange with the soothing properties of honey and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 cup boiling water
– Lemon slices and fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, and honey. Stir until the honey dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon and ginger; stir to combine.
3. Pour in the boiling water.
4. Stir well and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain into a new mug or serve as is.
6. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh cranberries.
Cooking Time: None! Simply steep and enjoy.
Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy
This aromatic drink combines the comforting flavors of vanilla and chai spices with the soothing properties of honey and lemon to create a perfect remedy for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/2 cup vanilla syrup (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup hot water
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large mug, combine the brewed tea, vanilla syrup (or extract), cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.
3. Add the honey and lemon juice, stirring until dissolved.
4. Add the hot water and stir well.
5. Let it steep for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! Just warm up and enjoy.
Peach Bourbon Hot Toddy
Warm up with this sweet and tangy hot toddy, infused with the flavors of peaches and bourbon. Perfect for a chilly evening or when you need to unwind.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 6 oz hot water
– 1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine diced peaches, bourbon, and honey syrup.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it steep for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the mixture into a mug or teapot, discarding solids.
5. Add hot water and stir to combine.
6. Squeeze in lemon juice and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rum and Coconut Hot Toddy
Soak your winter blues away with this creamy, tropical twist on the classic hot toddy.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of dark rum (1.5 oz)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Slice of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and honey; heat over low until dissolved.
2. Add cinnamon and nutmeg to the saucepan; stir to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain mixture into a mug.
5. Add coconut milk and rum to the mug; stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with an orange slice.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including steeping time)
Smoky Mezcal Hot Toddy with Cinnamon
Warm up with a Smoky Mezcal Hot Toddy infused with cinnamon spice!
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Mezcal
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup hot water
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– Ice cubes
– Lemon wheel or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a preheated mug, combine Mezcal, honey syrup, and lemon juice.
2. Add the hot water and stir until dissolved.
3. Break the cinnamon stick into smaller pieces and add to the mixture.
4. Stir well to combine and let it infuse for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the Smoky Mezcal Hot Toddy over the ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel or slice.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Lavender Honey Hot Toddy
This herbal hot toddy combines the soothing properties of lavender and honey to ease a sore throat, while also providing a calming and relaxing drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 teaspoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
– 1 shot of whiskey or bourbon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the boiling water and dried lavender buds. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Strain the tea into another cup to remove the lavender buds.
3. Add the honey, lemon juice, and grated ginger (if using) to the tea. Stir until the honey dissolves.
4. If desired, add a shot of whiskey or bourbon for an added depth of flavor.
5. Serve hot and enjoy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Pie Hot Toddy with Caramel Drizzle
Warm up with a twist on the classic hot toddy: Apple Pie Hot Toddy with Caramel Drizzle!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Apple pie spice blend (optional)
– Caramel drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine bourbon, apple cider, honey syrup, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the liquid into mugs or heat-proof glasses.
5. Top each with a dollop of heavy cream and sprinkle with apple pie spice blend (if using).
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pomegranate Rosemary Hot Toddy
Warm up with a twist on the classic hot toddy: Pomegranate Rosemary Hot Toddy. This sweet and savory drink is perfect for cold winter nights, combining the tartness of pomegranate with the earthiness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup strong black tea (cooled)
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– 1 lemon slice (optional)
– Whiskey or bourbon (to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine cooled tea, pomegranate juice, and honey. Stir until the honey dissolves.
2. Add the sprig of rosemary to the mixture and let it steep for at least 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the rosemary out of the drink (if desired).
4. Add a splash of whiskey or bourbon to taste.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in no time!)
Mulled Wine Hot Toddy
This Mulled Wine Hot Toddy recipe is a delicious and comforting twist on the classic hot toddy. The addition of mulled wine gives it a rich, fruity flavor that’s perfect for sipping by the fire or as a pick-me-up on a cold winter day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 2 cups mulled red wine (see note)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the brewed tea and mulled red wine.
2. Add the honey, cinnamon, and cloves to the mixture. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Strain the hot toddy into mugs. Garnish with a lemon slice.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spiced Pear Hot Toddy with Brandy
Warm Up with a Spiced Pear Hot Toddy with Brandy
As the weather cools down, cozy up with this spiced pear hot toddy featuring brandy and a hint of warm spices. This soothing drink is perfect for a chilly evening or as a pick-me-up on a cold winter morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pear, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 shot of brandy (about 1.5 ounces)
– 1 cup boiling water
– Lemon slice or wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sliced pear and honey. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pear is tender and the honey has dissolved.
2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the saucepan and stir to combine.
3. Pour in the brandy and boiling water. Stir gently to combine.
4. Serve hot, garnished with a lemon slice or wedge.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Espresso Hot Toddy with Irish Whiskey
This recipe combines the bold flavors of espresso and Irish whiskey to create a cozy and invigorating hot toddy perfect for chilly evenings. With its rich, velvety texture and subtle coffee notes, this drink is sure to become your new favorite winter warmer.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 cup Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– 1 cup hot water
– Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the espresso, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Add the Irish whiskey and stir until well combined.
3. Pour in the hot water and stir gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as needed.
5. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cardamom Orange Hot Toddy
Warm up with this unique and invigorating hot toddy, perfect for chilly evenings or as a soothing remedy when you’re feeling under the weather. This aromatic drink combines the sweetness of orange with the warm spices of cardamom and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon dried orange peel
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 medium orange (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 shot of bourbon or whiskey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine the water and tea leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground cardamom and dried orange peel to the tea mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Remove from heat and add honey, stirring until dissolved.
4. Squeeze in the orange juice and stir again.
5. If desired, add a shot of bourbon or whiskey for an extra boost.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a slice of orange if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thyme and Fig Hot Toddy
Soften your cold and calm your senses with this warm, herbaceous, and sweet Thyme and Fig Hot Toddy. Perfect for a cozy night in or a pick-me-up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– 2 tablespoons fig jam
– 2 cloves
– 1 lemon slice
– Whipped cream or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and thyme. Heat over low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer.
2. Add honey syrup and fig jam to the saucepan. Stir until well combined and heated through.
3. Remove from heat and add cloves. Let steep for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture into a mug. Squeeze in lemon slice and discard the rind.
5. Serve hot, topped with whipped cream or heavy cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot Buttered Rum Toddy
This classic wintertime cocktail is a perfect way to unwind on a cold evening. Made with buttery rum, soothing honey, and a hint of spice, this hot toddy will have you feeling cozy in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 cup hot water
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the rum, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the hot water and stir to combine.
5. Serve immediately in a mug or cup.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chai-Spiced Hot Toddy with Vanilla Vodka
Warm Up with a Chai-Spiced Hot Toddy featuring Vanilla Vodka
This soothing drink combines the comforting flavors of chai spices and vanilla vodka, perfect for cold winter nights or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vanilla vodka
– 4 oz hot water
– 1 tsp loose black tea leaves (such as Assam or Ceylon)
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– Honey or sugar, to taste
– Lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine vanilla vodka and hot water.
2. Add tea leaves, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Let steep for 3-5 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Strain the mixture into another mug to remove solids.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice.
Cooking Time: None needed! This hot toddy is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Cozy up on chilly nights with these 20 delicious hot toddy recipes! From classic whisky and honey to spiced apple cider, bourbon maple, and more, there’s a flavor combination for every taste. Try adding a twist with dark rum, coconut, or lavender honey for a unique take on this wintertime favorite. Whether you’re looking for a soothing sipper or a party-perfect drink, these hot toddies are sure to warm your heart and hands.
