I’m a sucker for a classic cocktail, especially when it’s just cold enough to need something warm in your hands. The Ginger Whiskey Toddy is a cozy drink that brings together the spicy kick of ginger and the smoothness of whiskey.
Honestly, it’s one of my go-to recipes when I want something easy but with a little personality.
The ingredients are simple, and there’s nothing tricky about putting it together. If you’re into cocktails with some spice and a hint of sweetness, you should probably give this one a shot.
Ginger Whiskey Toddy Cocktail Recipe
This ginger whiskey toddy is warm and soothing, mixing spicy ginger with honey, lemon, and whiskey. I stick to basic ingredients and a few kitchen tools to make a drink that’s perfect for cold days or when you just want to unwind.
Equipment
- Small saucepan: For heating the water and fresh ginger.
- Fine mesh strainer: To get rid of ginger bits before pouring.
- Measuring spoons and cups: I like to be precise—most of the time.
- Heatproof mug: Something sturdy that can handle hot drinks.
- Stirring spoon: Helps blend in the honey, lemon juice, and whiskey.
- Knife and cutting board: For prepping ginger and lemon peel.
- Peeler (optional): To make those fancy lemon twists for garnish.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces whiskey (bourbon or Irish whiskey are both great)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup if you’re feeling adventurous)
- 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1/2 cup hot water (just off the boil)
- 1-2 slices fresh ginger (peeled)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Cloves or star anise for extra spice (optional)
- Lemon peel for garnish
- Extra ginger syrup (optional, for extra sweetness and zing)
Sometimes I’ll toss in a little more maple syrup if I want it sweeter. If I’m out of fresh ginger, ginger syrup works in a pinch.
Instructions
- Toss the ginger slices and cinnamon stick in the saucepan.
- Pour in the hot water and let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes.
- Take it off the heat, stir in the honey until it melts.
- Add lemon juice to your mug, then strain the hot ginger water right in.
- Pour in the whiskey and give it a good stir.
- Taste—add more honey or lemon if you want.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel, another cinnamon stick, or maybe a star anise pod.
- Serve it while it’s still steaming. That’s when it’s best.
Notes
Fresh ginger gives the best kick—no contest. If you want it spicier, just let the ginger steep a bit longer.
Irish whiskey is milder, bourbon’s a little richer. Maple syrup is a fun swap for honey if you’re in the mood.
Cloves or star anise make the toddy smell and taste even more interesting. If you use ginger syrup, go easy on the honey so it doesn’t get too sweet.
A twist of lemon peel looks nice and brightens up the whole thing. Sometimes I drop a couple cloves right into the mug for a stronger spice, but I fish them out before sipping.
Equipment
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Heatproof mug
- Knife and cutting board
- Peeler (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey bourbon or Irish whiskey
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice about half a lemon
- 1/2 cup hot water just off the boil
- 1 –2 slices fresh ginger peeled
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 lemon peel for garnish
- Optional: 1 clove or 1 star anise
- Optional: 1 tsp ginger syrup for extra sweetness
Instructions
- Pour in 1/2 cup hot water and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the honey until dissolved.
- Add lemon juice to your mug.
- Add the whiskey and stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust with more honey or lemon juice if desired.
- Garnish with a lemon peel, extra cinnamon stick, or a star anise pod.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tasting Notes
First sip? Bright ginger, then that mellow whiskey warmth. The ginger really pops, leaving a little tingle on your tongue.
It’s the kind of drink that just feels right on a cold night. I swear, it makes winter a little more bearable.
There’s honey and lemon in the background, softening the whiskey and making it all go down smooth. The sweet and tart combo works wonders.
Flavor Highlights:
- Ginger: spicy, fresh, and a little zesty
- Whiskey: warm, smoky, and bold
- Honey: smooth and sweet
- Lemon: tart and bright
It’s not a calorie bomb, especially if you’re light on the honey. Plus, hey—vitamin C from the lemon, right?
The texture is silky, especially if you sip it slowly. I find that makes the flavors linger in the best way.
Drinking this toddy reminds me of sitting by a fire, wrapped up in a blanket. It’s a simple, comforting winter cocktail that’s honestly worth trying.
Substitute
If I don’t have whiskey, there are some easy swaps I can use instead. Brandy, dark rum, or even scotch all work well in a Ginger Toddy and still give it a nice kick.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz brandy, scotch, or dark rum (instead of whiskey)
- 1 cup hot water or ginger tea
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1-2 slices fresh ginger or a splash of ginger wine
- lemon wedge or a squeeze of lemon juice (for extra vitamin C)
Instructions
- Heat the water until steaming or brew a strong cup of ginger tea.
- Add the spirit of your choice to the mug.
- Toss in fresh ginger and honey.
- Pour hot water or ginger tea over everything.
- Stir until the sweetener dissolves.
- Squeeze in lemon juice if I want a boost of vitamin C.
Sometimes, I use ginger tea instead of hot water for a stronger ginger flavor. Ginger wine adds even more warmth and is a fun twist if I have it at home.
