When you feel a chill in the air or want a comforting warm drink, this classic hot toddy is simple, soothing, and full of cozy flavors. Made with hot water, honey, citrus, and warming spices, it comes together in minutes and feels like a hug in a mug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hot toddy is quick to prepare and requires only a handful of everyday ingredients. The balance of sweetness from honey, brightness from lemon, and gentle spice from cinnamon creates a smooth, comforting drink. It’s easy to customize, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for quiet evenings or cold nights when you want something warm and relaxing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 tablespoon honey
1 cup hot water
2 ounces whiskey
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cinnamon stick, about 3 inches long
1 fresh orange slice
Directions
Add the honey to a tall glass or large mug.
Pour the hot water over the honey and stir until it is completely dissolved.
Stir in the whiskey and fresh lemon juice.
Add the cinnamon stick to the mug.
Garnish with a fresh orange slice and serve immediately while warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 serving.
Preparation time is about 2 minutes.
Total time is approximately 5 minutes.
Variations
For a slightly sweeter flavor, add an extra teaspoon of honey.
Replace the cinnamon stick with a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves for a different spice profile.
Add a few thin slices of fresh ginger to the hot water for extra warmth and depth.
Use herbal or black tea instead of plain water for a more layered flavor.
Storage/Reheating
This drink is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. Because it is served warm and contains fresh citrus, it is not ideal for storage. If needed, you can prepare the hot water and spices ahead of time and reheat gently, then add the honey, lemon juice, and whiskey just before serving.
FAQs
What is a hot toddy?
A hot toddy is a warm beverage traditionally made with hot water, honey, citrus, spices, and whiskey.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, you can add more or less honey to suit your taste preferences.
Is fresh lemon juice necessary?
Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Why use a cinnamon stick instead of ground cinnamon?
A cinnamon stick infuses flavor without making the drink gritty or cloudy.
Can I use a different citrus fruit?
Yes, a small splash of orange or lime juice can be used for a different flavor.
What type of mug works best?
A heat-safe glass or ceramic mug works best for keeping the drink warm.
Can I make this drink stronger?
You can adjust the amount of whiskey slightly, keeping the balance of flavors in mind.
Is this drink very sweet?
It is mildly sweet, with the honey balancing the citrus and spice.
Can I prepare this for guests?
Yes, you can prepare each serving individually just before serving for best results.
Does the water need to be boiling?
Hot, just-off-the-boil water is ideal so it dissolves the honey without overheating the drink.
Conclusion
This hot toddy is a timeless warm drink that’s easy to prepare and comforting to sip. With its simple ingredients and customizable nature, it’s a reliable choice whenever you want something soothing and gently spiced. Whether enjoyed slowly in the evening or shared with friends, it’s a classic recipe worth keeping close.
This classic hot toddy is a warm, comforting drink made with honey, lemon, whiskey, and spices. It’s quick to make, perfect for cold evenings, and offers soothing citrus and spice flavors in every sip.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon honey
1 cup hot water
2 ounces whiskey
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cinnamon stick (about 3 inches long)
1 fresh orange slice (for garnish)
Instructions
Add honey to a tall glass or mug.
Pour in hot water and stir to dissolve the honey.
Stir in whiskey and lemon juice.
Add the cinnamon stick and garnish with a slice of orange.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Add thin slices of fresh ginger for extra warmth.
Try substituting tea for hot water for added flavor depth.
