A hot toddy with lemon and cloves is my go-to winter warmer!
Just mix 1 oz whiskey with fresh lemon juice, honey, ground cloves, cinnamon and a slice of ginger in a mug.
Pour boiling water over it, stir until the honey dissolves, and let steep for a few minutes.
The perfect garnish includes a lemon slice and whole cloves for extra flair.
Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this cozy, healing drink.
Stay tuned for some creative twists on this classic!
Ingredients
- Whiskey (bourbon or preferred)
- Hot water
- Fresh lemon
- Honey
- Ground cloves
- Ground cinnamon
- Fresh ginger
- Whole cloves (optional, for garnish)
Additionally, you can enjoy a nutritious twist by incorporating vegan options like plant-based milk into your hot toddy for an alternative flavor experience.
Recommended Tools
Making a perfect Hot Toddy is simple but having the right tools on hand makes the process even easier and more enjoyable. With these kitchen essentials you’ll be able to measure, mix and serve this comforting warm cocktail with precision and style.
- Heat-Resistant Mug:
Essential for holding the hot toddy without burning your hands or cracking from temperature changes.
- Electric Kettle:
Quickly boils water to the perfect temperature for your hot toddy without needing to use the stove.
- Bar Spoon:
Long-handled spoon that makes stirring and dissolving honey in your hot toddy much easier.
- Citrus Juicer:
Gets every drop of fresh lemon juice without seeds falling into your drink.
- Measuring Spoons:
Ensures you add the perfect amount of honey, lemon juice and spices for a balanced flavor.
- Jigger:
Accurately measures the whiskey portion so your hot toddy has just the right kick without being too strong.
Additionally, consider pairing your hot toddy with decadent mocha coffee overnight oats for a delightful breakfast or snack that complements the warm flavors of your drink.</p
Instructions for Hot Toddy With Lemon & Cloves
Start by boiling 8 oz of water in your kettle or on the stovetop.
While that’s heating up, grab your favorite mug and add 1 oz of whiskey (bourbon works amazingly here, but use whatever makes you happy!).
Now, squeeze in 1 tsp of fresh lemon juice – trust me, fresh makes all the difference compared to the bottled stuff!
Drizzle in 1 tsp of honey for that natural sweetness that perfectly balances the whiskey.
Time for the aromatics! Add ½ tsp ground cloves and ¼ tsp ground cinnamon – these warm spices are what make this drink truly magical.
Drop in that 1 slice of fresh ginger (about ⅓ inch thick) for a zingy kick that’ll clear your sinuses in no time!
Once your water is boiling, pour it over all these goodies in your mug and give everything a good stir until the honey completely dissolves.
Let it steep for about 3-5 minutes to extract all those fantastic flavors.
For an Instagram-worthy finishing touch, garnish with a fresh lemon slice studded with 2 whole cloves.
Not just pretty – those cloves will continue infusing flavor as you sip!
Serve while it’s piping hot and enjoy this comforting classic that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather! Chicken Noodle Soup With Orzo is another great option for a cozy meal alongside this warm drink!
Pro Tips
For maximum flavor in your Hot Toddy, lightly crush the fresh ginger slice with the back of a spoon before adding it to the mug, which releases more of its aromatic oils and spicy notes.
This simple step intensifies the warming qualities of your drink without requiring additional ingredients or time. Additionally, incorporating creamy pumpkin soup into your meal can make for a delightful pairing with your Hot Toddy, enhancing the overall comfort experience.</p
Substitutions & Variations
A few simple swaps can transform your hot toddy into a personalized treat that maintains its comforting warmth while introducing exciting new flavors.
- Herbal Infusion: Replace whiskey with strongly brewed chamomile tea and add a cinnamon stick instead of ground cinnamon for a caffeine-free alcohol-free version.
- Citrus Medley: Substitute orange juice for lemon juice and add a strip of orange zest for a sweeter citrus profile.
- Spiced Maple: Use maple syrup instead of honey and add a pinch of nutmeg and star anise for a rich autumnal flavor.
- Apple Cider Base: Replace half the hot water with warm apple cider and garnish with a thin apple slice for a fruity twist.
- Gingerbread Toddy: Double the ginger amount, add a tablespoon of molasses and use spiced rum instead of whiskey for a dessert-like experience.
- Tropical Twist: Use dark rum instead of whiskey, coconut honey in place of regular honey and add a dash of vanilla extract.
- Dessert-Inspired Oats: Consider pairing your hot toddy with dessert-inspired overnight oats for a delightful and comforting breakfast that complements the warm flavors of your drink.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
While exploring variations is exciting, let’s now consider what to do when you’ve made more hot toddy than you can drink in one sitting.
I don’t recommend storing hot toddies! They’re best enjoyed fresh and piping hot.
If you must save some, refrigerate the mixture without water for up to 24 hours, then reheat with fresh hot water when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Try With Quality Bourbon
Hot Toddy with Lemon & Cloves
A warming whiskey cocktail with honey, lemon, and aromatic spices, perfect for cold evenings.
- 8 oz hot water
- 1 oz whiskey (bourbon or preferred)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 slice fresh ginger (about ⅓ inch)
- Optional: lemon slice and 2 whole cloves for garnish
- Boil water.
- In a mug, combine whiskey, lemon juice, honey, ground cloves, cinnamon, and ginger slice.
- Pour hot water over ingredients and stir until honey dissolves.
- Garnish with lemon slice studded with whole cloves if desired.
