Classic Hot Toddy
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It’s time to warm up with this classic and comforting hot toddy. It’s made with your choice of bourbon, whiskey, or rum, a touch of honey, hot water, and fresh lemon juice. It’s ideal for winter and ready in minutes.
There’s something irresistibly cozy about wrapping my hands around a mug of hot toddy. Hot water, fresh lemon juice, and honey come together with a splash of whiskey, bourbon, or rum to create a drink that’s gently sweet, lightly citrusy, and wonderfully warming. It’s simple, comforting, and exactly the kind of thing I like to sip slowly when the evenings turn chilly.
What I love most is how flexible it is. I’ll tweak the honey and lemon to suit my mood, swap in maple syrup or brown sugar for a deeper sweetness, or even use orange or grapefruit instead of lemon. A cinnamon stick stirred in at the end adds a subtle spice and those extra sweater-weather vibes I’m always after this time of year.
Served steaming hot and finished with a lemon slice, this hot toddy feels right at home at casual get-togethers, quiet nights by the fireplace, or anytime I want something warm in my hands. It’s proof that a handful of simple ingredients can come together into something truly comforting with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQs
What’s the best alcohol for a hot toddy?
The ingredients in a hot toddy vary by region. In Ireland, they use Irish whiskey; in Scotland, they use an unpeated scotch. In North America, it’s common to use bourbon, or whatever is in the liquor cabinet. If you’re a fan of scotch or brandy, you can certainly try those as well.
Are there any hot toddy variations to try?
Yes! In addition to choosing your favorite liquor, you can also switch up the citrus. Try lime, orange, or grapefruit, or a combination. You can also brew a cup of lemon tea and use that in place of the hot water. Another option for replacing the water is to steep a tea bag with star anise, fresh ginger, and whole cloves.
For a festive take on this classic, try my cranberry hot toddy.
Classic Hot Toddy
Ingredients
- 1 ounce whiskey, bourbon, or rum
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best!)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¾ cup hot water
- Lemon slice and cinnamon stick (to serve)
Instructions
- Add your choice of alcohol, the lemon juice, and honey to a heatproof glass.1 ounce whiskey, bourbon, or rum, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon honey, ¾ cup hot water
- Pour the hot water into the mug and stir until the honey dissolves.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and cinnamon stick.Lemon slice and cinnamon stick
Video
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
Cozy warm cocktails
Looking for more inspiration? Check out all our cocktail recipes!
I discovered hot cocktails in a big way this winter ~ trying this next!
Haha I love it! I was born in the 70s, too. Times were sure different then!
This was exactly what I needed today. Quick, easy and so warming! The perfect hot toddy.
Hi thanks for the fabulous hot drink recipe 👏👏👏perfect for the UK plummeting temperatures. ps
I can’t get the print button to work. It just takes me to the full article….
Hi Nina. Sorry about that trouble. Here is the direct link to the print page. Hope that helps! https://www.theendlessmeal.com/wprm_print/92770