Hot Toddy Cocktail Recipe
Hot Toddy Nutrition Facts
Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:18g
Alcohol:14%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Hot Toddy, also known as a hot whiskey in Ireland, is a popular warm cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Scotland in the 18th century, where it was used as a remedy for colds and flu. The name 'Toddy' comes from the Hindi word 'taddy', which means a beverage made from fermented palm sap. Over time, the recipe evolved to include whiskey, hot water, honey, and spices.
How Hot Toddy Tastes?
The Hot Toddy is a warm, soothing, and comforting cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sweetness of honey and the warmth of whiskey are complemented by the tanginess of lemon and the subtle spiciness of cinnamon and cloves.
Interesting facts about Hot Toddy
- The Hot Toddy is believed to have medicinal properties, and it is often consumed to alleviate symptoms of colds and flu.
- In Scotland, the drink is traditionally made with Scotch whiskey, while in Ireland, it is made with Irish whiskey.
- The Hot Toddy is often enjoyed during the winter months and is a popular drink for warming up after spending time outdoors in cold weather.
Ingredients
- Whiskey: 2 oz(60ml)
- Hot water: 6 oz(180ml)
- Honey: 1tbsp
- Lemon juice: 1tbsp
- Cinnamon stick: 1
- Cloves: 3
- Lemon wedge: 1
Whiskey
- Whiskey: 2oz - the soul of the cocktail, providing the warming, complex heart notes. Too much and you'll set the night ablaze, too little and you might as well be drinking spiced water.
Alex Green
Hot Water
- Hot Water: 6oz - the canvas that allows our other flavors to paint a masterpiece. Hot water releases the aromas and helps to soothe the throat.
Mary Mitkina
Honey
- Honey: 1tbsp - this natural sweetener mellows the whiskey's burn and adds a velvety texture. Without it, the cocktail might come off a bit too harsh.
Emma Rose
Lemon Juice
- Lemon Juice: 1tbsp - bright and citrusy, it cuts through the sweetness and provides balance. Forfeit lemon juice and lose that refreshing zing.
Alex Green
Cinnamon Stick
- Cinnamon Stick: 1 - like a comforting hug in the colder months. It infuses subtle warmth and depth. No cinnamon could mean a less festive and flat-tasting toddy.
Mary Mitkina
Cloves
- Cloves: 3 - these tiny powerhouses introduce a hint of spicy bitterness, providing complexity. Leave them out, and you'll miss the full-bodied experience.
Emma Rose
Lemon Wedge
- Lemon Wedge: 1 - the garnish that doubles as a flavor infuser. Plus, it makes your drink look pretty. Without it, you'll lose some aromatic qualities and visual appeal.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Hot Toddy Drink
- In a heatproof glass or mug, combine the whiskey, honey, and lemon juice.
- Pour the hot water into the glass, stirring until the honey is dissolved.
- Add the cinnamon stick and cloves to the glass.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality whiskey for the best flavor.
- Warm the glass before adding the ingredients to keep the drink hot for longer.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less honey.
Perfect Pairings
Foods to Pair with Hot Toddy
- Hearty soups and stews: The warmth of the Hot Toddy complements any rich and savory broth.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches: The gooeyness of the cheese and the crispness of toasted bread make for a delightful pairing with the soothing spiciness of the drink.
- Spiced desserts: Think apple pie or cinnamon rolls. These sweet treats echo the flavors found in your mug.
- Roasted nuts: A simple yet sophisticated match, especially if they're dusted with spices.
Drinks to Pair with Hot Toddy
- Tea: Choose a milder tea so as not to overpower the cocktail's flavors.
- Apple cider: This non-alcoholic option's sweetness and tanginess can complement the Hot Toddy's profile.
- Water: To stay hydrated, of course!
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in Hot Toddy
- Whiskey: Can be substituted with rum or brandy.
- Honey: Can be substituted with maple syrup or brown sugar.
- Lemon juice: Can be substituted with orange or grapefruit juice.
Explore all drinks starting with H here
And of course - twists🍹
Apple Cider Toddy
- Swap hot water for hot apple cider to blend autumnal notes with the whiskey. Add a slice of fresh ginger for extra spice. The apple cider's sweetness and tartness will elevate the drink's complexity.
Honey Bourbon Toddy
- Use bourbon for a sweeter, fuller flavor and replace honey with maple syrup. This will give a rich, smoky touch to your toddy, perfect for those who prefer a deeper, woodsy taste.
Green Tea Toddy
- Infuse green tea in hot water before adding it to the mix. The tea's herbaceous qualities will offer a refreshing twist to the warm cocktail, adding some antioxidants to your indulgence.
In case you forgot basics how to make Hot Toddy
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Hot Toddy
Can I drink Hot Toddy if I'm not ill?
Yes, while the Hot Toddy is known for its potential to alleviate cold and flu symptoms, it is also simply a delicious cocktail enjoyed by many.
Does the Hot Toddy need to be served hot?
Yes, as the name implies, the Hot Toddy is traditionally served hot, making it ideal for colder weather or warming up after time spent outdoors.
Can the Hot Toddy be made with any type of whiskey?
While traditionally Scotch or Irish whiskey is used, you can certainly use any type of whiskey you prefer or have on hand.
Can I prepare a Hot Toddy without alcohol?
Yes, you can. Just substitute the whiskey with more hot water or some herbal tea. However, remember that the taste will not be the same.
How can I prevent the honey from settling at the bottom of the glass?
To prevent the honey from settling, ensure to stir your Hot Toddy thoroughly until all the honey is fully dissolved.
More similar recipes to Hot Toddy!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
Cucumber Cooler
The Cucumber Cooler is a crisp, refreshing, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of tartness from the lime juice. It has a light, clean taste with a subtle cucumber flavor.
Indian Summer
The Indian Summer cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sweetness of the mango and the tartness of the lime juice create a perfect balance, while the ginger and chili add a subtle heat that lingers on the palate. The overall taste is refreshing, fruity, and exotic.
Mango Lassi Cocktail
The Mango Lassi Cocktail is a sweet, creamy, and fruity drink with a hint of tanginess from the yogurt. The mango flavor is prominent, while the subtle notes of cardamom and honey add depth and complexity. The alcohol adds a warming sensation, making this drink both refreshing and comforting.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has a rich, complex taste that is both sweet and bitter. The whiskey provides a strong, warming base, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice. The orange and cherry garnish add a subtle fruity note.
Manhattan
The Manhattan cocktail is a well-balanced blend of sweet, bitter, and strong flavors. The sweetness comes from the vermouth, while the bitterness is derived from the aromatic bitters. The whiskey provides a robust and full-bodied taste, making the drink a perfect choice for those who enjoy a strong and complex cocktail.
Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a well-balanced cocktail with a tangy, sour taste from the lemon juice, a subtle sweetness from the simple syrup, and a rich, warming sensation from the whiskey. The egg white adds a smooth, creamy texture.
Tom and Jerry
The Tom and Jerry cocktail has a rich, creamy taste with a hint of sweetness. The combination of warm milk, sugar, and spices creates a comforting, velvety texture. The addition of rum and brandy gives the drink a warming, boozy kick.
Cider Punch
Cider Punch is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The apple cider provides a natural sweetness, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tartness. The cinnamon and other spices bring warmth and complexity to the drink, making it perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.
Hot Gold
The Hot Gold cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors. The warmth of the whiskey is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the honey and the tangy kick of the lemon juice. The cinnamon and cloves add a touch of spice, while the smoky aroma of the star anise lingers on the palate.
Bumbo
Bumbo has a sweet and spicy taste, with a hint of warmth from the rum. It is smooth and rich, with a velvety texture and a lingering finish.
Eggnog
Eggnog is a sweet, creamy, and rich drink with a velvety texture. It has a subtle hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, giving it a warm and comforting flavor. The drink is mildly boozy, with a smooth and gentle finish.
Amber Moon
The Amber Moon cocktail offers a harmonious balance of flavors, with a rich and velvety texture. It has a subtle sweetness, followed by a warm and spicy kick. The combination of whiskey, honey, and cinnamon creates a smooth and comforting taste, perfect for sipping on a cool evening.
Navy Grog
Navy Grog is a well-balanced cocktail with a complex flavor profile. It's strong, yet refreshing, with a combination of sweet, sour, and spicy notes. The rum provides a rich, warm base, while the citrus juices add a bright, tangy element. The honey and spices round out the flavor, giving the drink a touch of sweetness and depth.
Three Dots and a Dash
The Three Dots and a Dash cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. It has a rich and complex taste, with notes of citrus, honey, and spices. The rum adds a warming, smooth finish to the drink.
Aztec Gold
The Aztec Gold cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sweetness of the honey and the tartness of the lime juice are perfectly balanced by the warmth of the tequila and the heat of the chili pepper. The result is a bold, invigorating, and unforgettable taste experience.
Hot Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum has a rich, creamy, and buttery taste with a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar and a warming sensation from the spices and rum. The flavors are well-balanced, making it a perfect winter cocktail.
Bonfire
The Bonfire cocktail has a smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy taste. It is a well-balanced drink with a hint of warmth and a smooth finish.
Butter Rum
The Butter Rum cocktail is a rich, creamy, and indulgent drink with a smooth, buttery texture. The sweetness of the rum is balanced by the warmth of the spices, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile.
London Fog
The London Fog cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, creamy, and slightly citrusy flavors. The Earl Grey tea provides a subtle, floral undertone, while the addition of vanilla and lavender syrup adds a touch of sweetness. The steamed milk gives it a rich, velvety texture, making it a perfect drink for a cozy evening.
Sherry Flip
The Sherry Flip has a rich, creamy, and velvety texture with a delicate balance of sweetness and nuttiness from the sherry. It is a smooth and warming drink with a hint of spice from the nutmeg.
Dog's Nose
The Dog's Nose cocktail has a unique taste that combines the sweetness of brown sugar, the bitterness of stout beer, and the warmth of gin. It is a well-balanced drink with a smooth, creamy texture and a slightly tangy aftertaste.
Tom Collins
The Tom Collins has a refreshing, slightly sour, and mildly sweet taste. It is a well-balanced cocktail with a smooth and light texture, making it easy to drink and enjoy.
Amaretto Sour
The Amaretto Sour is a sweet, tangy, and slightly nutty cocktail. The sweetness of the Amaretto is balanced by the sourness of the lemon juice, creating a refreshing and flavorful drink.
Apple Martini
The Apple Martini has a sweet and sour taste, with a crisp and refreshing apple flavor. It is well-balanced, with a slight tartness from the apple and a smooth, velvety finish from the vodka.
New York Sour
The New York Sour is a well-balanced cocktail with a combination of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. It has a rich, full-bodied taste with a smooth whiskey base, tangy lemon, and a hint of red wine.
Whiskey Smash
The Whiskey Smash is a refreshing, slightly sweet, and citrusy cocktail. It has a strong whiskey flavor, balanced by the tartness of lemon and the cooling effect of fresh mint.
Boilermaker
The Boilermaker is a strong, robust, and slightly bitter cocktail. The combination of whiskey and beer creates a bold and warming flavor, with the whiskey providing a smooth, rich taste and the beer adding a refreshing, slightly bitter note.