The Hot Toddy is the perfect warming cocktail for chilly evenings. This classic drink combines very hot water, whiskey, honey, and fresh lemon juice for a simple, bright, and comforting sip.
With roots stretching back centuries, the Hot Toddy has long been regarded as a soothing, bedside-style drink. Hot water, lemon, and honey can ease throat irritation and provide a cozy, hydrating boost when you’re feeling under the weather. The whiskey adds depth and warmth, and while it’s often enjoyed as a restorative, you might reserve the spirit for when you’re feeling up to it.
Whether you’re nursing a mild cold or simply craving a nightcap, a Hot Toddy is an inviting choice. If you enjoy warm cocktails, you might also like other comforting classics such as Irish Coffee or citrus-forward cocktails like a Whiskey Sour or a Brown Derby.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes the Hot Toddy special is its simplicity: it’s primarily a hot water–based cocktail that relies on a few bold ingredients to deliver flavor. Honey and lemon provide sweetness and brightness while the whiskey and spices turn the drink into a cozy, aromatic treat.
Garnishing or steeping with whole spices—star anise, a cinnamon stick, and cloves—adds an apple-cider-like warmth and complexity. The result is tart, sweet, citrusy, and deeply warming.
Ingredients
- Very hot water: nearly boiling; it will cool a bit once mixed. A kettle works well.
- Bourbon, rye, or Applejack brandy: bourbon is my preference for its natural sweetness, but rye, Irish whiskey, or apple brandy all work.
- Honey: balances the tartness and adds body. Measure a tablespoon or adjust to taste.
- Fresh lemon juice: provides bright citrus flavor.
- Cinnamon stick: optional but recommended for a warm, lingering cinnamon note.
- Star anise: gives a subtle licorice-like aroma that pairs nicely with the other spices.
- Whole cloves: add a gentle, sweet spice; they’re great as a garnish when stuck into the lemon wedge.
Best Whiskey for a Hot Toddy?
Bourbon is my go-to, but use a whiskey you enjoy. There’s no need for top-shelf bottles since the drink is served hot and diluted with water. Brands like Maker’s Mark, Four Roses, or Bulleit are solid choices.
Feel free to substitute American rye, Irish whiskey, or brandy. Laird’s Applejack brandy is a delicious variation if you want a hint of apple character.
How to Make a Hot Toddy
Step 1.
Pour very hot water into a heat-safe mug.
Step 2.
Add fresh lemon juice, honey, and bourbon (or chosen spirit).
Step 3.
Stir until the honey dissolves. Garnish with a lemon slice, cinnamon stick, star anise, and cloves.
Quick Tip
Press the whole cloves into the lemon wedge flesh so they won’t float or be accidentally swallowed whole. This also concentrates their flavor into the citrus oil.
Expert Tips
- Use 1 ounce of whiskey for a mild spirit presence or 1 1/2 ounces for a stronger profile. Hot water tends to activate whiskey flavors, making them seem more pronounced.
- Preheat your mug by filling it with boiling water, then discard and add the 3/4 cup of hot water for the cocktail—this helps the drink stay warmer longer.
- If the Toddy cools too quickly, reheat it briefly (20–30 seconds) in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hot water combined with honey and lemon can soothe a sore throat and may ease some cold symptoms. These ingredients help with hydration and comfort, though they aren’t a cure.
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More Whiskey Cocktails
Irish Coffee
Whiskey Sour
Manhattan Cocktail
Old Fashioned Cocktail
Hot Toddy Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup very hot/boiling water
- 1 1/2 ounces bourbon, rye or Applejack brandy
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3/4 ounces fresh lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick, garnish
- Star anise, garnish
- Whole cloves, garnish
Instructions
- Pour hot water into a heat-safe mug.
- Add lemon, honey, and bourbon.
- Stir until honey is dissolved and garnish with a lemon slice, cinnamon stick, star anise, and cloves.
Notes
Preheat your mug with boiling water, then discard before adding the measured hot water to keep the drink warm longer.
If the Hot Toddy cools, reheat it for 20–30 seconds in the microwave.
Stick the cloves into the lemon wedge so they stay put and don’t float at the surface.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.