Hey y’all! Darian here from County Mama Cooking. When cold and flu season hits, I start craving hot toddy. These warm, whiskey-laced drinks provide the perfect soothing comfort when you’re feeling under the weather.
Today, I’m sharing my tips for making these classic cocktails at home along with my favorite healing ingredients to mix in. Grab your mug and let’s dive in!
A Steamy, Soothing Sipper
A hot toddy is one of the best natural remedies for battling winter ills. These hot cocktails typically mix whiskey, honey, and lemon to create a steamy, soothing beverage. The whiskey helps relax your body and warm you from the inside out. Honey is naturally antibacterial and soothes sore throats. And lemon provides a dose of vitamin C.
I love whipping up a hot toddy anytime I’m feeling congested or run down. The steam clears my sinuses so I can breathe. And it just makes me feel cozy and comforted as I wrap my hands around the warm mug.
This classic drink has Scottish origins dating back centuries. But its healing powers make it a timeless winter warmer. The best part is you likely have all the ingredients on hand to make one anytime.
Hot Toddy
Equipment
- 1 mug
Ingredients
- 1½ cups Boiling water
- 1 Teabag preferably herbal
- ½ oz Whiskey
- 1 tbsp Honey
- ½ Lemon worth of juice
- 1 Cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Boil your water and place your tea bag in your mug.
- Pour hot water into your mug, and let the teabag steep for about 2-3 minutes. After the 2-3 minutes, remove the teabag.
- Squeeze your lemon over the mug, you may or may not squeeze the seeds into your mug. If that happens, just use a spoon to remove them or juice your lemon separate then pour in the lemon juice.
- Then spoon in your honey and stir until it's all dissolved.
- Pour in your whiskey, give a quick stir.
- Place the cinnamon stick in for a little something extra, and enjoy.
Video
Handy Tips for Mixing Up a Hot Toddy
Though simple, there are some tips I’ve picked up for making a smooth, properly spiced hot toddy:
- Use a high proof bourbon or rye whiskey to cut through congestion.
- Add at least 1-2 tablespoons honey for sore throat relief.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice to amp up vitamin C.
- Pour in boiling water to create steam (microwaving dilutes liquor).
- Sprinkle of cinnamon, clove, star anise for extra aroma.
- Use a big mug to allow ingredients to blend and steam.
- Stir well before sipping to incorporate honey.
- Add a slice of fresh ginger or lemon to garnish.
Creative Ingredients to Customize Your Hot Toddy
While the basic whiskey-lemon-honey combo is classic, I like to customize my hot toddy to target specific symptoms. Here are some of my favorite add-ins:
- Fresh ginger – reduces nausea and pain
- Apple cider – soothes sore throat, adds sweetness
- Chamomile tea – calming, anti-inflammatory
- Cinnamon stick – warming, helps thin mucus
- Cloves – antioxidant, numbs sore throat
- Star anise – clears congestion, aids digestion
- Black tea – caffeinated pick-me-up
- Maple syrup – use instead of honey for added minerals
- Orange slice – extra vitamin C and bright flavor
Hot Toddy FAQs
I know folks have lots of questions about these comforting cocktails. Here are some common hot toddy FAQs:
Is whiskey essential for a hot toddy?
I’d say yes, the alcohol is key to providing relief. But you can use a non-alcoholic bourbon substitute if needed.
Can I make it kid-friendly?
Absolutely, just skip the whiskey and use warm water or apple cider instead.
What’s the best way to reheat?
Stovetop reheating works best to preserve the whiskey’s potency.
How do you make it vegan?
Use agave nectar instead of honey for a plant-based drink.
Can I use rum or brandy?
You sure can, though I prefer whiskey or bourbon for its warming qualities.
Is hot toddy good for colds and flu?
Yes, it provides temporary relief for many cold and flu symptoms like sore throat, cough, and congestion.
Can it help me sleep?
Definitely, the whiskey has a relaxing effect and the steam clears nasal congestion.
Whenever I’m feeling under the weather, nothing provides more instant relief and comfort than sipping a hot steaming toddy. The whiskey warms me from the inside while the lemon, honey and spices work their magic.
I hope these tips help you concoct your own custom hot toddy. Try out different ingredient combos and let me know your favorites! Here’s to staying healthy and happy this season.