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Classic Hot Toddy Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 6 reviews
  • Author: Hannah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Classic Hot Toddy recipe is a warm, comforting beverage perfect for cold evenings or soothing a sore throat. Featuring a blend of whiskey or bourbon, fresh lemon juice, honey, and aromatic bitters, it offers a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors. Garnished with cloves, cinnamon, and star anise, this traditional drink is simple to prepare and ideal for relaxation.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • ½ cup boiling water
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons whiskey or bourbon
  • 2-3 drops aromatic bitters
  • 2-3 teaspoons honey

Optional Garnishes

  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 slice lemon
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 star anise


Instructions

  1. Heat water: Boil water to ensure it is hot enough to dissolve the ingredients properly and to warm the beverage.
  2. Combine liquids and honey: Pour ½ cup of boiling water into a mug, then add 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 4 tablespoons of whiskey or bourbon, 2-3 drops of aromatic bitters, and 2-3 teaspoons of honey. Stir thoroughly until the honey is completely dissolved.
  3. Prepare garnish: Poke whole cloves into the peel of a thick lemon slice to infuse subtle clove aroma and drop the lemon slice into the mug.
  4. Add spices: Place a cinnamon stick and/or star anise into the mug for additional warm spice notes and visual appeal.
  5. Serve: Give the drink a gentle stir to mix the garnishes and flavors before enjoying your hot toddy warm.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of honey to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet drink.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor and acidity balance.
  • The optional garnishes add aromatic complexity but can be omitted for a simpler version.
  • Substitute whiskey or bourbon with rum for a different flavor profile.
  • Be careful with the amount of bitters; start with 2 drops and add more if desired to avoid overpowering the drink.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg