Cranberry Vodka Hot Toddy Cocktail Recipe

When the weather turns chilly, I can’t help but crave a cozy drink—something that feels comforting but still a bit festive. A hot toddy is a classic, sure, but honestly, I like to shake things up with a twist that fits the season.

A Cranberry Vodka Hot Toddy brings together tart cranberry, smooth vodka, and warm spices into a simple cocktail you can whip up at home. It’s a little unexpected, but it totally works.

I love this drink for evenings when I want something warm but not too heavy. The cranberry gives it a punchy flavor, while vodka keeps things crisp and not overly sweet.

It’s super easy to put together, and you really don’t need any fancy tools or obscure ingredients.

If you’re looking to serve something different at a get-together, this recipe’s a solid pick. It looks inviting, tastes refreshing, and still brings that cozy hot toddy vibe.

Cranberry Vodka Hot Toddy Cocktail Recipe

I usually make this when I want something warm, fruity, and just a bit spiced. The combo of cranberry juice, honey, and vodka plays nicely with lemon and whole spices.

It’s a cozy riff on the classic toddy, and honestly, it’s a little addictive once you try it.

Equipment

I don’t fuss too much with tools for this recipe. A small saucepan does the trick to gently warm the juice and water—no need to boil.

I always grab a heatproof mug, since this drink’s best enjoyed hot.

• Small saucepan
• Heatproof mug or glass
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for fishing out spices)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Citrus juicer or reamer
• Small knife and cutting board

If I’m using whole cloves or star anise, a strainer comes in handy so I’m not fishing bits out of my mug. And honestly, a wooden spoon just feels right for stirring honey into the warm mix.

Ingredients

I usually go for unsweetened cranberry juice for that tart kick, but if you want things a bit softer, sweetened juice is fine too. Fresh lemon juice cuts through the sweetness and brightens everything up.

• 1 cup unsweetened cranberry juice
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 2 oz vodka
• 1–2 tbsp honey (to taste)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2–3 whole cloves
• 1 star anise (optional)
• Fresh cranberries or orange slice for garnish

Sometimes I’ll toss in a thin orange slice for a little citrus aroma. Whole spices like cinnamon and cloves really amp up that classic toddy warmth.

Instructions

I start by gently heating the cranberry juice and water together—no need to let it boil, just get it steamy and fragrant.

• Warm cranberry juice and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise. Let it steep for about 5 minutes.

Take it off the heat and stir in the honey until it melts in.

• Add lemon juice and vodka. Give it a good stir.
• Strain into a heatproof mug if you want it totally smooth.
• Garnish with cranberries, a cinnamon stick, or an orange slice—whatever feels right.

I always taste before serving and tweak the honey or lemon juice depending on my mood that night.

Notes

Honestly, this toddy is best when it’s piping hot. If it sits around too long, the spices can start to take over and drown out the cranberry.

Unsweetened cranberry juice makes it sharper, sweetened makes it mellow. I usually start with less honey and add more if I’m feeling sweet.

If I want a bolder spiced flavor, I let the cinnamon and cloves hang out in the pot longer. For something lighter, I just pull them out sooner.

Oh, and if you’re not in the mood for vodka, swapping in whiskey or rum totally works for a new spin.

Tasting Notes

Right off the bat, I notice the cranberry brings this gentle tartness. It plays off the warmth of the vodka, so the drink ends up feeling smooth—definitely not too sweet.

The hot water kind of softens everything. Suddenly, the cocktail turns into a cozy drink instead of something sharp or bracing.

Honestly, the heat makes the cranberry taste rounder, more mellow. I like that a lot.

When I take a slow sip, there’s a light citrus note from the lemon sneaking in. That tiny touch keeps things bright, even though it’s obviously a winter cocktail.

The honey does its job, adding just enough sweetness to calm down the tart fruit. I think it works better than sugar here, mostly because it blends right into the warm liquid without any fuss.

The aroma is pretty inviting, too. I get hints of cranberry steam, citrus, and honey—almost makes you want to linger before that first sip.

Compared to other winter drinks, this one feels lighter, not as heavy as something creamy. I really enjoy that balance, especially when I want warmth but don’t want to feel weighed down.