Some evenings call for a warm mug and a deep breath. This Hot Toddy Recipe is one of those simple comforts I come back to again and again, especially when the weather turns cold or my throat feels a little scratchy. It is gently warming, lightly sweet, and filled with cozy spice.
This version keeps things classic with whiskey, lemon, and maple syrup, making it naturally dairy free and vegan friendly. I have mixed this hot toddy more times than I can count, tweaking the balance until it felt soothing but not overpowering. It comes together in minutes and feels like a small act of care in a mug. Let's make one.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 5 minutes
- Cozy and warming without being too strong
- Naturally dairy free and vegan
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for cold nights or holiday evenings
Ingredients
- ¾ cup hot water
- 1 ½ ounces whiskey, bourbon, or rye
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 lemon slice, for garnish
- A few whole cloves, for garnish
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Whiskey is traditional here, but bourbon brings a softer sweetness, while rye adds a little spice. Use what you enjoy sipping.
Maple syrup keeps this hot toddy naturally vegan and adds gentle warmth. If you like it sweeter, add a little more to taste.
Fresh lemon juice makes all the difference. Bottled juice just does not have the same brightness.
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a kettle or small saucepan.
- In a heat-safe mug, add the whiskey, maple syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Pour the hot water over the mixture, stirring again to blend the flavors.
- Add a cinnamon stick and lemon slice. If you like, press a few cloves into the lemon for extra aroma.
Pro Tips for Success
- Taste and adjust sweetness before serving.
- Use very hot water so the drink stays warm longer.
- Lightly bruise the cinnamon stick to release more flavor.
- Sip slowly and enjoy the warmth.
Storage and Reheating
You can store the hot toddy base without hot water in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with fresh hot water when ready to serve.
Make Ahead and Freezing
The whiskey, lemon, and maple syrup mixture can be frozen for longer storage. Thaw completely, then heat with hot water before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Add a slice of fresh ginger for extra warmth.
- Swap lemon for orange for a softer citrus note.
- Use star anise instead of cloves for a subtle licorice hint.
- Add a splash of apple cider for a fall-inspired twist.
FAQs
It is gently warming, not overpowering. You can always reduce the whiskey if you prefer it lighter.
Yes. Skip the whiskey and add more lemon and maple syrup to taste for a soothing warm drink.
Any whiskey you enjoy works well. Bourbon and rye are both great options.
📖 Recipe
Hot Toddy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drinks & Beverages
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This comforting Hot Toddy is a classic warm cocktail made with whiskey, lemon, and maple syrup - a soothing, vegan-friendly remedy for chilly nights or sore throats.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup hot water (200 ml)
- 1.5 ounces whiskey (or bourbon or rye, 3 tbsp/45 ml)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or vegan honey substitute)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from half a lemon, 15 ml)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 lemon slice, for garnish
- A few cloves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil water in a kettle or saucepan
- In a heat-safe mug, combine whiskey, maple syrup, and lemon juice
- Pour hot water into the mug and stir gently to blend
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and lemon slice
- Optional: press a few cloves into the lemon slice
Notes
Refrigerate the toddy mixture (without hot water) for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Thaw fully before heating. Adjust maple syrup for sweetness preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 226
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 13mg
- Fat: 0.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.02g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.01g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot toddy recipe on cold evenings, after dinner, or while relaxing by the fire. It pairs beautifully with simple cookies or a slice of spiced cake.
Nutrition and Notes
This recipe makes one serving at about 226 calories. I tested it with different sweetener levels, and this balance felt just right without masking the lemon.
Reader Reviews or Testimonials
Readers often tell me this is their go-to winter drink when they want something comforting but simple. That kind of feedback always makes me smile.
Related Recipes and Internal Links
If you enjoy cozy winter treats, you may also like my European Hot Chocolate or Christmas Gooey Butter Cookies for a sweet pairing.
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