Hot Toddy Recipe

This alcohol-free Hot Toddy is the ultimate liquid hug in a mug, perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a little extra TLC. Whether you’re feeling a bit under the weather or just want to curl up with a book, this drink is a total game-changer—it’s zesty, spiced, and incredibly soothing. Trust me, you’re going to love how the zingy ginger and sweet honey dance together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort: It’s like a warm blanket for your soul, specifically designed to be cozy and hydrating.
• Natural Goodness: Packed with ingredients like fresh lemon and ginger, it’s a powerhouse of soothing flavors.
• Quick & Easy: You can go from shivering to sipping in just 10 minutes—it’s the perfect last-minute evening treat.

Ingredients

All you need for this Hot Toddy Recipe is 10 minutes and a few pantry staples! But first, let’s look at what makes this drink so special:

• Hot Water: The hydrating base that carries all those beautiful aromatics.
• Honey: Provides a silky sweetness that coats the throat perfectly.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy punch and a much-needed dose of vitamin C.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Gives a subtle, healthy tang that balances the sweetness of the honey.
• Ground Cinnamon & Cinnamon Stick: We’re doubling up on cinnamon for that deep, woody warmth and a gorgeous scent.
• Whole Cloves: These little gems add a hint of earthy spice that screams winter comfort.
• Fresh Ginger: Adds a spicy, tingling heat that feels absolutely amazing as you sip.
• Vanilla Extract: My secret weapon! It rounds out the spices with a smooth, cupcake-like aroma.
• Lemon Slice: The perfect garnish to make your drink look as good as it tastes.

Note: The full list of ingredients with exact measurements can be found right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Steep the Aromatics

Bring your water to a gentle boil, then take it off the heat. Drop in your cinnamon stick, cloves, and that fresh ginger slice. Let them hang out and steep for about 5 minutes—this is where the magic happens and the water becomes infused with all that spicy goodness.

Step 2: Strain

Once it’s fragrant, strain the liquid into your favorite mug. This gets rid of the whole spices so your drink is perfectly smooth.

Step 3: Stir in the Flavor

Now, add your honey, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, and that splash of vanilla. Give it a good whisk until the honey is fully dissolved and everything is beautifully combined.

Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy

Slide in a fresh lemon slice for that professional touch. Wrap your hands around the warm mug, take a deep breath of that spiced steam, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Boil the Honey: For the best flavor and to keep the honey’s natural benefits intact, add it after you’ve taken the water off the heat.
• Smash the Ginger: Give your ginger slice a little “whack” with the side of your knife before adding it to the water to release even more of those spicy oils.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you like it a bit sweeter, don’t be afraid to add an extra drizzle of honey. We’re making this exactly how you like it!

How to Serve

This drink is all about the “cozy factor.” Here’s how to level up the experience:

• The Mug Matters: Serve this in a clear glass mug so you can see the beautiful golden hue and the floating lemon slice.
• Pairing: This is UNREAL alongside a couple of ginger snap cookies or a small bowl of toasted pecans.
• Bedtime Ritual: Sip this about 30 minutes before bed to help you wind down and relax.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any left over (though I doubt you will!), keep it in a jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this one—it’s so quick to make, it’s definitely best enjoyed fresh and hot!

Reheating

Gently warm it back up on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s steaming, but try not to let it reach a full boil again.

FAQs

1. Can I add a tea bag to this? Absolutely! If you want a bit of caffeine or extra depth, steeping a bag of black tea or green tea along with the spices works beautifully.

2. What if I don’t have fresh ginger? You can use a pinch of ground ginger in a pinch, but the fresh stuff really provides that signature “zing” that makes this recipe a standout.

3. Is this drink okay for kids? Yes! Since this is a non-alcoholic version, it’s a wonderful, soothing drink for the whole family to enjoy on a cold night.

4. Can I use maple syrup instead of honey? You sure can! Maple syrup will give it a slightly different, more “woodsy” sweetness that is equally delicious and makes the recipe vegan-friendly.