Warm up your fall and winter nights with this cozy Apple Cider Hot Toddy. This soul‑soothing cocktail blends spiced apple cider, whiskey, citrus, and honey for the ultimate comfort in a mug. Quick to prepare, impossible to resist, just like S'mores Martini.
What is Apple Cider Hot Toddy?
I would describe apple cider hot toddy as spiked cider. The basic recipe consists of whiskey, hot water, lemon rounds, cinnamon, honey and sugar. Many places use whiskey or bourbon to make hot toddies for St. Patrick's Day and beyond. However, other spirits like cognac or even rum can be used as well. Original Hot Toddy recipe included only sugar, water, and whiskey!
Whether you had a Scottish grandmother who used to make it for you when you were sick, or had seen it in an Irish coffee mug in an Irish pub, this hot cocktail is great for fall or winter!
Why it works
- Perfect way to warm up! I make Apple cider Hot Toddy to warm myself up when it's cold outside. Ideal for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or a soothing treat when you're feeling under the weather,
- Improves your mood. It's a really good pick me up drink. Apple Cider Hot Toddy is comforting and soothing, and mood improving cocktail.
- Cold remedy. My friends drink it when they have a cold or feel sick. It's a classic cold weather beverage!
How to make Apple Cider Hot Toddy
- Apple Cider is the foundation of this recipe.
- Whiskey: I like to use Slane Triple Casked Irish whiskey. This exceptional whiskey is aged in 3 different casks. Surprisingly cheap too.
- Honey: It's not about the sweetness, it's about honey's flavor.
- Lemon: Lemon's acidity balances the sweetness of apple cider and warmth of whiskey, creating a well-rounded drink.
- Cinnamon: Use Ceylon Cinnamon for best flavor! Warm, sweet and aromatic spice that complements both apple cider and whiskey.
- Garnish: A cinnamon stick or a lemon slice can be used as a garnish.
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Ingredients
- 2 cups Apple Cider
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- ¼ teaspoon cloves powder optional
- 3 lemon rounds squeezed
- ⅔ cup whiskey
- ½ lemon (juice it)
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, bring apple cider, cinnamon sticks, honey to a simmer. Squeeze fresh lemon.
- Add cloves or clove powder (optional)
- Add the whiskey. Taste and add more lemon if desired.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve hot.
The Secret to a Perfect Apple Cider Hot Toddy
The secret to a perfect apple cider hot toddy lies in adjusting the ratio of apple cider and whiskey. More apple cider creates a smoother, dessert‑like sip, while an extra splash of whiskey adds more "boozy" taste. Bartenders recommend a balance of 1:2 for whiskey to apple cider, 1 teaspoon honey, cinnamon and plenty of lemon, followed by fine‑tuning to taste.
Tips
- Add a pinch of cayenne for gentle warmth and depth.
- For stronger apple flavor, use unfiltered apple cider or a splash of applejack/brandy.
- Make a big batch for parties by keeping hot in a slow cooker.
FAQ
- Can I make Apple cider hot toddy non-alcoholic?
Yes! Simply leave out the whiskey for a healing, family‑friendly version. You can add extra ginger or a splash of orange juice for more flavor. - What's the best whiskey for a hot toddy?
I love Slane, but you can use any cheap whiskey (Tullamore Dew is a good budget-friendly choice) since we are adding so much flavor to Hot Toddy. Choose your favorite-Irish whiskey, bourbon, rye, or even apple brandy. Each adds unique character to the drink. - Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan‑friendly hot toddy. - What are good garnish ideas?
Try a cinnamon stick, star anise, fresh ginger slice, or orange peel for extra aroma and presentation.
Necessary Equipment
- Small saucepan: Used to heat up apple cider. You can use a medium one if planning on a large batch!
- Electric Coffee Server: To keep it warm especially if you make it in large quantities.
Variations & Substitutions
- Apple jack liqueur is the way to up both the alcohol and flavor in the hot toddy.
- Apple brandy -You can use apple brandy or apple whiskey. Add that to hot cider, then a few dashes of orange bitters to brighten up and enhance the drink further.
- Star Anise - the scent of star anise is strong and inviting, making the toddy feel even more soothing and comforting.
- Clove - earthy spice that is slightly sweet and deep, adds complexity to the drink
- Ginger - adds a bright, zesty aroma that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- A splash of orange - fragrant and slightly tangy notes to balance the tartness of lemon and warmth of whiskey.
- Cayenne pepper - I often add a dash of cayenne for an extra spice to competent apple cider!
- Nutmeg - use powdered or crack a nutmeg!
- Tea bags instead of Apple Cider: Hot toddies are made differently all over US. I grew up seeing them with tea bags in the northeast. I just got served one with just hot water a few weeks ago in one of the southern states.
- Bourbon: When I was in New York City roof top bar this winter, they made Apple Cider Hot Toddy with bourbon.
Greg says
We make it in our home using flavored whiskey. And always with cinnamon.
Clay says
Cinnamon powder is easier than dealing with sticks, but it can be gritty.
Olya says
Nice! Powders work too but can get messy.