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    Home » Recipes » Beverages

    Classic Hot Toddy Recipe

    Published: Dec 3, 2022 · Modified: Feb 2, 2025 by Eileen Murphy Kelly

    Jump to Recipe
    A glass mason jar with yellow liquid, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in the jar.
    A glass mason jar filled with a light yellow liquid with a honey stick above the jar.
    Recipes written for Everyday Eileen are for information purposes. Eileen Kelly is not a registered dietician or nutritionist. Any nutritional data we provide is an approximation. Actual dietary information can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. 
     
    Don’t forget to shop at the Everyday Eileen store on Amazon.
     

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cup | Calories: 99kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 15mg | Potassium: 30mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.2mg
    Tried this recipe?Mention @Everyday_Eileen or tag #everydayeileen!

    Our hot toddy recipe is the cure to take away the chill on a cold evening. This classic cocktail combines smooth whiskey, hot water, and fresh lemon for a cozy drink that will warm you from the inside out.

    Hot toddy cloves, whiskey, lemon slices on a board.

    Whether you’re looking for a comforting nightcap or a natural remedy for sniffles, this simple yet flavorful recipe is the perfect go-to drink. Try some other favorite warm drinks: Detox Lemon Ginger Green Tea, Irish Coffee, Cranberry Tea, and Slow Cooker Pumpkin Hot Chocolate.

    Grab a mug and make a hot toddy that’ll keep you toasty all season long.

    For specifics on the recipe use the table of contents to click on sections of the recipe.

    Jump to:
    • Why you'll love this recipe
    • Ingredient List
    • Equipment
    • How to Make a Hot Toddy
    • Eileen's Tips for Success
    • Variations
    • Make ahead, storage, and freezer tips
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Similar recipes
    • 📖 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    Why you'll love this recipe

    • This hot whiskey drink with sweet honey will bring you some serious comfort.
    • This aromatic warm cocktail is easy to prepare and the perfect quick fix for much-needed comfort.
    • Tis the Season for cold symptoms with aches and pains. That means it's Hot Toddy season and this is a cure-all.
    • It's so easy to learn how to make a hot toddy at home, any time.

    Ingredient List

    A small jar of honey, lemon wedges, whole cloves, and cinnamon on a wooden plank are the ingredients for a hot toddy.

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    • Whiskey or Irish Whiskey are my top choices, it adds a zip to the body to warm you up.
    • Honey: gives a sweetness and soothes the throat.
    • lemon juice - a great addition to the drink.
    • lemon wedges
    • ground cloves - a warm spice that enhances the toddy.
    • cinnamon stick - gives a nice spice to warm flavors.
    • fresh ginger slices, if unavailable, use ground ginger.

    Equipment

    • 7" small saucepan
    • Measuring Spoons and Cups
    • jigger

    How to Make a Hot Toddy

    This is an overview of the recipe. The full instructions are below in the recipe card.

    1. Heat: Bring water to a boil in a teapot or small saucepan.
    2. Prepare the toddy: Pour whiskey, fresh lemon juice, hot water, and honey into a mug.
    3. Garnish the toddy: Add a slice of lemon, fresh ginger, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
    4. Serve and enjoy.

    Eileen's Tips for Success

    • Be sure to heat the water to just about boiling so the sweetener will dissolve in the liquid.

    Variations

    Do you want to change up this recipe? Here are some ways to change the flavor of this dish.

    • I love an extra shot of lemon and ginger added to the saucepan when the water is boiling.
    • Citrus: try orange slices, or apple slices in this warm cocktail.
    • Vegan options: use pure maple syrup instead of honey
    • Add black tea to your cocktail for an extra boost of flavor.
    • Sweetener: If you prefer a bit of sweetness, try ½ teaspoon of either: white sugar, pure maple syrup, stevia, or monkfruit.
    • Looking to cozy up with a nightcap on a cold evening but don't have whiskey, here are some suggestions to substitute:
      • Brandy
      • Vodka
      • Light Rum
      • Dark Rum
      • Bourbon
      • Scotch Whiskey

    Make ahead, storage, and freezer tips

    Storage - It's best to drink the toddy while it's hot.

    However, if you make a big batch, keep it in the refrigerator in a covered airtight container for up to 5 days.

    Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

    A Hot Toddy in a mason jar with honey being dripped into the mug.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where did the Hot Toddy recipe originate?

    The word Toddy dates back to the British rule of India in the 1600s and means a beverage made from fermented palm sap.
    The term Toddy evolved into a beverage made with liquor, spices, sugar, and hot water in the late 1700s. The rest is history and the hot toddy is a winner.

    What type of whiskey is best to use for this drink?

    Any of these will work great: Jameson Irish Whiskey
    Makers Mark
    Canadian Club Rye
    Tullamore Dew Whiskey

    Do Hot Toddys work to make you feel better?

    According to Medical News Today, having a hot toddy can relieve some symptoms. That said, always check with your doctor when you are on any prescription medication and for making any homemade elixirs

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    I love any comments or questions, please feel free to leave them below.

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    Thank you for your continued support. I am forever grateful.

    Eileen  xo

    If you click on the number of servings in the recipe card you can adjust the measurements up or down for the exact number of servings you need.

    📖 Recipe

    Delicious hot toddy in a mason jar with a honey stick over the jar dripping honey into the glass.

    Hot Toddy Recipe

    A delicious and comforting Hot Toddy! This is a is make you feel better with a little whiskey, lemons, ginger, and some spices. For our over 21 friends! 
    5 from 10 votes
    Print (Email Required) Pin Rate
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    Course: Drink
    Cuisine: English
    Keyword: hot toddy, hot toddy recipe, hot tottie
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes
    0 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Servings: 1 serving
    Calories: 99kcal
    Author: Eileen Kelly

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

    Equipment Needed:

    • 7" small saucepan
    • Measuring Spoons and Cups
    • jigger

    Ingredients

    • 8 ounces water
    • 1 ounce whiskey Note 1
    • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon honey
    • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon Note 2
    • ½ teaspoon ground cloves optional Note 3
    • 1 slice fresh ginger about ⅓ inch slice
    • 1 slice lemon optional garnish
    • 2 whole cloves optional garnish
    US Customary - Metric

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    Instructions

    • In a tea kettle or saucepan, over medium-high heat, add 8 ounces water and bring water to a boil. Remove the pan from the hea
    • Pour the hot water into a large mug, add 1 ounce whiskey, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cloves , and 1 slice fresh ginger.
    • Optional, serve with 1 slice lemon and 2 whole cloves.

    NOTES

    Be sure to check Expert Tips and FAQs above with important tips and questions that can help make a delicious recipe. 
    Note 1: A good Irish whiskey such as Jamison Irish Whiskey is my first choice for a classic Hot Toddy. Bourbon, Rum, Brandy, or Scotch can be used.
    Note 2: A cinnamon stick can be used instead of ground cinnamon.
    Note 3: Ginger is a favorite addition to the toddy.  A slice of fresh ginger is awesome or add ¼ teaspoon ground ginger.
    Variations:
    • I love an extra shot of lemon and ginger added to the saucepan when the water is boiling.
    • Vegan options: use pure maple syrup instead of honey
    • Citrus: try orange slices, or apple slices in this warm cocktail.
    • Add black tea to your cocktail for an extra boost of flavor.
    • Sweetener: If you prefer a bit of sweetness, try ½ teaspoon of either: white sugar, pure maple syrup, stevia, or monkfruit.
    Recipes written for Everyday Eileen are for information purposes. Eileen Kelly is not a registered dietician or nutritionist. Any nutritional data we provide is an approximation. Actual dietary information can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. 
     
    Don’t forget to shop at the Everyday Eileen store on Amazon.
     

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cup | Calories: 99kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 15mg | Potassium: 30mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.2mg
    Tried this recipe?Mention @Everyday_Eileen or tag #everydayeileen!

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    Thank you for sharing!

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    1. Hannah Lagdameo

      February 06, 2019 at 12:53 am

      5 stars
      Thank you for sharing this recipe. This is very timely cause it's already flu season. All the best!

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        February 11, 2019 at 2:38 am

        I am happy you enjoy the recipe Hannah! It is a great hot toddy and stay healthy!

        Reply
    2. Loreto Nardelli

      January 14, 2019 at 1:39 am

      5 stars
      That was a beautiful picture you painted of you and your husband sipping hot toddies by the fire over looking the ocean
      . Last night I had quite the sore throat, could of used one of these!
      Happy New Year!
      Cheers!

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 14, 2019 at 2:20 am

        Happy New Year to you as well Loreto! We did have a great few days in our winter vacation spot!

        Reply
    3. Claire | The Simple, Sweet Life

      January 13, 2019 at 10:57 pm

      How did you know my husband just came down with a cold and clearly is in need of a hot toddy? I'm sure this would do the trick for that sore throat of his. We're definitely going to have to try this!

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 14, 2019 at 2:26 am

        I hope your hubs feels better soon! A hot toddy will definitely give him a little TLC !

        Reply
    4. Tammy

      January 13, 2019 at 6:06 pm

      5 stars
      I've never had a hot toddy before but this looks and sounds so comforting on a cold night especially when one isn't feeling to well. I'd love one right now 🙂

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 13, 2019 at 10:36 pm

        Tammy, these hot toddys are delicious! You are right, perfect when not feeling well!

        Reply
    5. Elizabeth Leaver

      January 13, 2019 at 2:03 pm

      5 stars
      Just looking at this makes me feel warm and cozy! My boyfriend has (man) flu at the moment and is also partial to a whiskey now and again. I will have to make this for him, it might keep him quiet for a little while at least ?

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 13, 2019 at 10:37 pm

        Yes, Elizabeth, your boyfriend will love the hot toddy! I know, men get a cold and it lasts quite long,:)

        Reply
    6. Farwin

      January 13, 2019 at 1:13 pm

      This would make a great remedy for the cold !

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 13, 2019 at 10:41 pm

        It sure would be a great remedy for a cold Farwin!

        Reply
    7. Ruchi

      January 13, 2019 at 4:14 am

      5 stars
      Hot toddy has been my favorite cold curing medicine for years:) I love the taste, i love the smell of it and i love the whole process too.

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 13, 2019 at 10:42 pm

        Ruchi, I am with you on this one! A hot toddy is amazing!

        Reply
    8. Marisa Franca

      January 12, 2019 at 11:09 am

      5 stars
      I don't believe I've ever had a Hot Toddy but the way this winter is going I think I need a gallon of it. This cold and cough has been lingering on -- and this is such an easy recipe! I need to make some. We have wine in the house but no whiskey -- better send Hubby out to get some.

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 13, 2019 at 10:40 pm

        Oh Marisa, feel better! Have the hubs get some whiskey, this will warm you right up!

        Reply
    9. Donna

      January 11, 2019 at 11:57 pm

      5 stars
      I love a good hot toddy, it always makes me feel instantly better and always reminds me of my grandpa 🙂

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 12, 2019 at 2:19 am

        Donna, This hot toddy reminds my clearly of my mom, but also of my Grandpa too! The memories are just as good as the toddy! xo

        Reply
    10. Dominique | Perchance to Cook

      January 11, 2019 at 2:34 pm

      Is it crazy that I've never had a hot toddy before?! I've been sick for about 2 weeks now, so I'm going to make this to feel better. Sounds like it will do the trick, while tasting delish!

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 12, 2019 at 2:23 am

        Dominique, I hope you feel better! Make yourself a hot toddy and I hope it helps your cough.

        Reply
    11. anne lawton

      January 10, 2019 at 5:33 pm

      5 stars
      THere's nothing like a hot toddy when it gets cold out. Thank you for sharing your recipe and tips.

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 12, 2019 at 2:24 am

        I am glad you like the tips Anne! This hot toddy is my go-to winter feel better drink! Hoping you find it helpful this crazy cold days!

        Reply
    12. Veena Azmanov

      January 10, 2019 at 3:39 pm

      5 stars
      I have not had toddy for so many years. This looks so good and brings memories from years ago. .Love how simple this is. I need to try this..!!

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 12, 2019 at 2:25 am

        isn't that what food should do..bring us back to good times! I hope you enjoy the toddy Veena! Your baking always brings me back to my Grandma! I hope this toddy brings you good memories!

        Reply
    13. Kyra Rodriguez

      January 10, 2019 at 1:49 am

      5 stars
      I cannot sleep properly last night due to my dry cough. ugh! I will try this later, I hope this one will work on me!

      Reply
      • Eileen xo

        January 12, 2019 at 2:26 am

        Kyra, I hope the toddy helped your cough, feel better

        Reply

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