Hot Toddy Cocktail Recipe
cocktailwhiskeysweetstrongspicy

Hot Toddy Cocktail Recipe

Hot Toddy cocktails have been around since the 1700s and were once considered a type of medicine. There are many variations but the most popular one calls for ‘Christmas spices.’ Unsurprisingly, it’s most commonly ordered around Christmas.

5 min
easy
other glass

Ingredients

  • 2 shots scotch
  • 1/2 shot fresh lemon juice
  • 1 spoon honey
  • 1/2 shot simple syrup
  • 3 dried cloves
  • Top with Boiling water
  • 1 lemon wedge
  • 1 cinnamon stick
Garnish: 1 lemon wedge, 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

  1. 1

    Build all the ingredients in a pre-heated Irish coffee glass with boiling water. 

  2. 2

    Stir until honey dissolves. 

  3. 3

    Add the garnishes. 

Pro Tip

For an extra kick, try adding a splash of your favorite spiced rum to the mix. It adds a delightful depth to the flavor profile!

The Story Behind the Hot Toddy Cocktail Recipe

The Hot Toddy has its roots in the 1700s, originally concocted as a medicinal remedy to ward off the chill of winter and soothe sore throats. This warm, comforting cocktail has evolved over the centuries, with its most popular version featuring 'Christmas spices' that evoke the festive spirit. Traditionally enjoyed during the colder months, the Hot Toddy remains a beloved classic for its soothing warmth and rich flavors.

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    gingerbread cookies

    The spicy sweetness of gingerbread complements the warm, spiced notes of the Hot Toddy perfectly.

  • 🍽️
    roast turkey

    The savory, hearty flavors of roast turkey pair beautifully with the sweet and spicy profile of the Hot Toddy.

  • 🍽️
    apple pie

    The cinnamon and apple notes in the pie enhance the spiced warmth of the Hot Toddy.

Perfect For

  • rainy Sunday afternoon

    There's nothing like a Hot Toddy to warm you up on a cold, rainy day.

  • after a long winter hike

    Warm up and relax with a Hot Toddy after braving the cold outdoors.

  • holiday movie marathon

    Pair your favorite holiday films with a cozy Hot Toddy for the ultimate festive experience.

  • recovering from a cold

    The soothing warmth and honey in a Hot Toddy can be just what you need to feel better.

Fun Facts

  • The Hot Toddy was originally used as a medicinal drink to cure ailments like the common cold.

  • In Scotland, the Hot Toddy is often made with Scotch whisky, adding a distinct smoky flavor.

  • The name 'Toddy' is believed to have originated from the Indian word 'taddy', which referred to a fermented drink made from palm sap.

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!