Clove Hot Apple Toddy Cocktail Recipe

There’s something special about a warm drink on a chilly night. My Clove Hot Apple Toddy brings together smooth whiskey, tart apple, and spicy clove for a comforting and easy-to-make cocktail. It’s the perfect way to relax after a long day or impress guests with a simple yet flavorful recipe.

I love how quickly I can put this drink together using basic ingredients found in most kitchens. The gentle heat, rich apple notes, and aromatic clove transform an ordinary evening into a cozy experience.

Clove Hot Apple Toddy Cocktail Recipe

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This recipe combines apple cider, spices, and whiskey to create a warming drink. I share what you need, how to mix it, and tips for the best flavor.

John

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Serving Size 1

Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Muddler or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Heatproof mug
• Citrus peeler or sharp knife
• Stirring stick or spoon
• Optional: tea infuser for spices

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups fresh apple cider
• 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
• 2 –3 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 –2 tsp honey to taste
• 1 lemon slice or peel
• Optional: 1 star anise
• Optional: thin apple slices for garnish

Instructions

• Pour apple cider into the saucepan and add cloves, cinnamon, and star anise if using.
• Heat on medium-low until hot but not boiling.
• Add honey and stir until it dissolves.
• Remove from heat and strain out the spices.
• Pour whiskey into the mug, then add hot spiced cider.
• Stir well and garnish with lemon peel and apple slices.
• Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

I prefer using local apple cider for better taste. Sometimes I swap honey for maple syrup, which makes the drink a bit richer.

If I’m making it for kids or anyone not drinking alcohol, I skip the whiskey. I find the spices steep best if they are heated in the cider for at least 5 minutes.

If the drink is too strong, I add a splash of hot water. I always serve it hot, as it cools quickly. I recommend making it fresh, but you can keep the spiced cider warm in a slow cooker if serving a crowd.

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Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Clove Hot Apple Toddy, the first thing I notice is the gentle warmth from the spices. The aroma is inviting, with clove standing out the most.

The flavor starts sweet from the apple juice, then turns slightly tart. I taste honey, which gives a smooth finish without being overpowering.

The texture is smooth and comforting. I notice a subtle burn from the spirits, but not too strong.

For extra texture, sometimes I add a cinnamon stick or a slice of fresh apple on top. This adds a bit of crunch and more fragrance to the drink.

The overall balance between sweet, spice, and citrus makes this toddy ideal for sipping slowly.

Substitute

If I do not have cloves or other main ingredients for my Clove Hot Apple Toddy, I look for easy swaps. Using substitutes helps me enjoy a similar flavor and feel.

Ingredient Substitutes

• Cloves: I use allspice or a small pinch of ground cinnamon.
• Apple cider: Apple juice works, but I pick an unsweetened kind for less sugar.
• Whiskey: I swap in rum, brandy, or bourbon for a different taste.
• Lemon juice: A splash of orange juice or a dash of apple cider vinegar can work in place of lemon.
• Honey: Maple syrup or simple syrup provides the same sweetness.

Equipment Alternatives

• Mug: Any heat-safe cup or glass is fine.
• Saucepan: I heat the drink in a microwave-safe bowl or a small pot.
• Strainer: I use a slotted spoon or simply scoop out whole spices by hand if needed.

Instructions Shortcuts

• Skip simmering whole spices by adding ground spices and stirring well.
• Use pre-made hot spiced apple drinks if time is short, then simply add spirits and lemon.