Old Fashioned Hot Toddy

My soothing Old Fashioned Hot Toddy is a delicious combination of oaky, caramel bourbon, blended with honey, swirled around in hot water to truly soothe your soul. With the additional of ground cinnamon and clove, you can up the ante on this classic cocktail.

As much as I don't like to admit it, winter is coming. But on the bright side, it is the perfect time of year for a belly warming bourbon hot toddy to stave off those cold nights.

If you are a bourbon lover, try our Bulleit Old Fashioned Cocktail or for a fall vibe our Apple Cider Old Fashioned.

Ingredients

It's an easy drink to make and even easier to sip.

See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.

• Hot/Warm Water: This will thin out the beverage to stretch that sweetness.
• Honey: A natural sugar to add sweetness, along with its soothing properties.
• Bourbon: This helps to warm up the body while adding additional flavors to the beverage.
• Ground Cinnamon: A warming spice keeping in theme with the drink.
• Ground Clove: Adds more warmth to complement the cinnamon.
• Lemon: A little hit of citrus is a beautiful contrast to the warming flavors and adds a comforting element.

For this classic hot toddy recipe, you'll want to have on hand a kettle (stovetop or electric) measuring cups and spoons and a heat-safe mug to serve it in.

Variations

• Mix it Up: Make it your favorite way by using dark rum, brandy, scotch or gin for a different taste.
• Simple Syrup: Use as a sweetener instead of honey (it just won't have the same soothing qualities).
• Tea: Use a strong full-bodied tea instead of water.
• Extra Warmth: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a star anise.

How to Make Old Fashioned Hot Toddy

It is so simple to put together this classic beverage.

Bring water almost to a full boil in a kettle, in a small saucepan or in the microwave.

Add the honey and stir until fully dissolved, then pour in the bourbon.

If using, add the spices: ground cinnamon and ground cloves, and stir.

Squeeze half of the lemon into the glass and finish off by dropping in a thin lemon slices and a cinnamon stick.

Hint: Fresh lemon juice is a must! It helps balance the sweetness without becoming overly acidic, which can sometimes happen with bottled lemon juice.

Recipe Tips:

• Glass: Since you want to enjoy this beverage hot (or as hot as you can safely handle), serve in a heat resistant mug with a handle.
• Garnishes: Extra lemon adds a nice smoothing touch, you can also use whole cinnamon sticks, cloves, or anise star.
• Heat your Mug: Add boiling water to your glass for about a minute before making your drink to keep it warmer for longer.
• Warm, Don't Boil: Heat the water just until steaming. Boiling water can mute the honey and whiskey flavors instead of letting them shine.

For another cocktail with a similar citrus-forward profile, make our Bourbon Lemon Cocktail.

Bourbon Hot Toddy Frequently Asked Questions