Hot Toddy

By Rebekah Peppler

Updated Dec. 16, 2024

Hot Toddy
Christopher Testani for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Simon Andrews.
Total Time
5 minutes
Rating
4(979)
Comments
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Whether you’re sick in bed or fresh off the slopes, a hot toddy warms everything up. The classic formula of whiskey, sugar and hot water is like the steamy cousin of an old-fashioned, but these days, a lot of other ingredients (citrus juice, apple cider, various spices) get added in the name of innovation, with mixed results. This version cozies up to the original, with a few optional additions based on preference. First, warm the mug with hot water, which primes the vessel to hold heat longer, yielding a truly hot toddy to the last sip. Then add scotch or bourbon, or for a modern twist, rum, cognac or amaro. Stir in a little honey, maple syrup or Demerara sugar, add hot water and stir to dissolve. Garnish with lemon peel and spices, if you like.

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Ingredients

Yield:1 drink
  • Boiling water, as needed
  • 2ounces scotch, bourbon, rye, Irish whiskey, dark rum, cognac or amaro
  • ¾ounce light honey, such as acacia, or maple syrup (or 1 teaspoon Demerara sugar)
  • 1(3-inch) lemon peel
  • Cinnamon stick and whole star anise, to garnish (optional)
Ingredient Substitution Guide
Nutritional analysis per serving (1 servings)

189 calories; 0 grams fat; 0 grams saturated fat; 0 grams trans fat; 0 grams monounsaturated fat; 0 grams polyunsaturated fat; 15 grams carbohydrates; 1 gram dietary fiber; 13 grams sugars; 0 grams protein; 4 milligrams sodium

Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Fill a 6-ounce heatproof mug or glass with boiling water and set aside, 1 minute. Pour out the water then add the spirit and honey to the warmed glass. Top with boiling water and stir until the honey is dissolved. Garnish with the lemon peel, cinnamon stick and star anise, if desired. Let cool slightly before enjoying.

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Ratings

4 out of 5
979 user ratings
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Comments

EWood

In Dublin many years ago, I had a hot toddy made by a bartender sympathetic to my really bad cold: Irish Whisky, hot Irish tea, a bit of honey, and whole cloves stuck into a wedge of lemon. My cold felt infinitely better—or it is possible after a couple of drinks, I just didn’t care anymore.

C

In place of hot water use hot tea(I use green) So so soothing and cozy

cabbydog

Made two variations, both with herbal tea: Bourbon with Celestial Seasonings Vermont Maple Ginger Tea and a little maple syrup and bourbon and Stonecutter Whiskey with Honey and Fireside Vanilla Tea. Both winners... I like to make these with a good peaty Islay Single Malt too. Nothing says autumn like hot toddies.

Lorraine

Jack Daniel’s with Earl Gray tea and honey; best hot toddy ever.

Cathy

45 years ago I was suffering with a severe case of mastitis accompanied by high fever. My obstetrician prescribed the indicated antibiotic and instructed my husband to also administer a hot toddy. I have no idea what worked or why, but I didn’t care. And are we the only ones who float a pat of butter on top?

Ben

While this is a great Toddy, which I've enjoyed, there is one catch. You HAVE to use an organic Lemon for its peel. Sadly, there is no commercial citrus in the USA without chemicals (pesticides, shellac) in the peel. Those chemicals come out in alcohol. Expensive, I know, but it's 2025.

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