Bourbon Hot Toddy Cocktail
A classic cozy cocktail for chilly nights—warm bourbon, citrus, honey, and a little spice in a soothing hot mug. Easy to make, comforting, and endlessly customizable.
Equipment
- Heatproof mug or glass
- Kettle or small pot
- Teaspoon
- Citrus juicer
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring jigger
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey or rye, rum, or brandy
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp honey or pure maple syrup
- 5 oz hot water or black tea, or hot apple cider
- lemon slice or orange wheel for garnish
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves or 1 star anise, optional
- extra spices (nutmeg, allspice) optional
Instructions
- Heat water, tea, or cider until steaming (not boiling).
- Add honey to a mug. Pour in the hot liquid and stir until honey dissolves.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, then add bourbon. Stir gently.
- Garnish with lemon slice, orange wheel, or cinnamon stick. Add cloves or star anise for extra spice if desired.
Notes
Maple syrup or honey both add their own unique sweetness. Hot cider makes it cozier and more autumnal. Rye adds spice, bourbon is smoother, rum is sweet. Serve hot and sip slow for maximum comfort. Don’t use boiling water—too hot makes the lemon taste bitter.