Classic Hot Toddy

Keeping things sweet, but a little bit healthier with this Classic Hot Toddy! Freshly brewed spiced “tea” with a little bit of honey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and add a splash of bourbon – if you’d like, or make this as an alcohol-free “mocktail” for all those days you might not feel too well. Then, simply top off with a few spices for garnish. This toddy is delicious and the most comforting mug to cozy up to during the colder months. The real trick is finding the perfect blend of spices…and we did! A little bit of cinnamon, clove, and allspice give this toddy a deliciously spicy and warming kick that’s guaranteed to give your immune system a bit of a boost…plus, it’s great for sore throats and coughs!

→ This post is also available as a Web Story: Hot Toddy

About The Recipe

During these cold winter months, I think we could all use a mug of something warm and cozy. We are always looking for something to change it up. Between a mug of hot chocolate or some spiced cider, sometimes it feels like all wintery drinks are sweet. Not that sweet is a bad thing, but it’s nice to have a change of pace. That’s where this hot toddy comes in!

It’s something my mom used to make all the time during the winter, but when we moved, there wasn’t really a winter anymore. Not like what there was growing up.

Now, we’re back to snow-y and cold winters. Which means, it’s also inevitable one of us gets a sore throat or runny rose for a few days. And, while some chicken noodle soup or chicken and wild rice soup are always a magic cure-all, sometimes it’s just easier to brew a cup and sit back! Because this stuff will actually soothe your throat and help with a stuffy nose.

That, and this toddy just tastes really good!

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If you’ve never had one or made one, there’s really no stress! The secret to this drink is really the honey and the bourbon. The honey coats your throat, but also makes this drink sweet enough to drink. The bourbon helps with a stuffy/runny nose! From there, the spices are brewed in boiling water which also help you breathe. There’s also a splash of lemon juice added to give your immune system a good boost.

Honestly, there’s really nothing bad for you in this drink! If you choose to omit the bourbon to make a mocktail, make sure you try a sip before serving! It might need a little bit more lemon juice or spice.

But, if you’re like us and love a good cocktail, use a bourbon you love the way it tastes. I think anything with some cinnamon in it. Maybe even a light honey flavor!

Either way, just make sure it’s something you like because it’s a strong portion of this drinks flavor.

Speaking of flavors, be sure to try your honey before you go mixing! Some honey’s might be too strong. I enjoy a lighter honey in this drink. One just sweet enough to sweeten the drink without overpowering the spices…because that spice mix is seriously my favorite part.

It’s the perfect drink to cozy up with this winter!

Equipment Needed

• A Mug
• Kettle (optional)
• Measuring Spoons
• Jigger

Ingredients

• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Allspice
• Boiling Water
• Honey
• Lemon Juice
• Bourbon

Instructions

Place spices in a large mug. Pour boiling water over it and let steep for five minutes. It should be a golden color.

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Mix in the honey, bourbon, and lemon juice. Serve immediately!

Substitutions

• Cinnamon, cloves, and allspice is our favorite spice blend for this drink. Try added some star anise, cardamom, nutmeg, or ginger!
• Don’t have bourbon? Use what you have and like! Whiskey is the best substitute, but you could also use brandy.
• If you wanna change things up, head to your local market and see if you can find a honey aged in bourbon barrels for a pleasant twist!

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Expert Tips

• Toddy gone cold? No worries! Heat it up in the microwave for a few seconds for a freshly brewed warmth.
• Decorate with brûlée’d lemon or orange peel. Add a cinnamon stick, too! It also makes for a great way to stir the drink.
• We used a kettle to get boiling water. If you don’t own one, just put a pot on the stove and let the water come to a boil.
• Make sure your drink is still warm before adding the honey. It will help it dissolve.
• Don’t use ground spices.

When you make this Classic Hot Toddy, leave a comment down below! We love hearing from you and answering any questions you might have! Also, be sure to tag us on social media and hashtag it #BakersTable.