Looking for the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter night? This hot toddy recipe has got you covered.
A hot toddy is a warm drink made with dark rum (or swap in whiskey or bourbon if you prefer), honey, lemon, and a blend of spices.
Mix up a mug and snuggle up by the fireplace. You won’t be disappointed!
What is a Hot Toddy?
A hot toddy is a traditional cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries and has its roots in India where a fermented palm sap called “taddy” was popular. Over time, the hot toddy has evolved and is now made with a base of hot water, rum or whiskey, honey, and lemon juice and often flavored with spices like cinnamon and cloves.
It’s not only a delicious drink, but some people even believe it can help alleviate the symptoms of a cold or sore throat. So next time you’re in need of a comforting warm drink, give a hot toddy a try!
Ingredients in a Hot Toddy
Spirits – Dark rum is the traditional spirit of choice in a hot toddy, but also delicious are whiskey, bourbon, or brandy.
Mixer – All you really need is boiling water to mix with the spirits and spices, but for more depth of flavor, steep a teabag in a pot before adding it in. Citrusy Earl Grey is an excellent choice, or try your favorite lemony herb tea.
Spices and Flavorings – A hot toddy wouldn’t be the same without cinnamon and clove. Or, give it a bigger kick with pumpkin pie spice mix that has ginger and allspice it too! Substitute a slice of orange for the lemon, or use both!
Sweetener – Honey is customary here, but white demerara sugar, or even brown sugar will work, especially with dark rum! Or, make this simple syrup recipe and keep it on hand for all your holiday cocktails!
How to Make a Hot Toddy
Making a hot toddy is so easy with these simple steps!
- Fill mugs with boiling water and steep cinnamon sticks and cloves (as per recipe below).
- Stir in honey, rum, and lemon juice.
- Add a slice of lemon and serve.
Hot Drinks for Cold Days!
Did you enjoy this Cozy Hot Toddy Recipe? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!
Cozy Hot Toddy Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups boiling water or hot tea
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 ounces dark rum or whiskey or bourbon
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 whole cloves
- 2 slices lemon
Instructions
- Add cinnamon sticks and cloves to two mugs.
- Pour boiling water and let steep 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in honey, rum and lemon juice. Add lemon slices and serve.
Notes
Rum can be replaced with whisky or bourbon.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
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