There’s something so cozy about wrapping your hands around a warm, soothing mug, and that’s exactly what this Classic Hot Toddy Recipe does. It’s warming, comforting, and super simple, perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather.

A clear glass cup filled with warm golden liquid sits on a wooden surface, with a thick lemon slice floating near the top. The lemon slice has small dark brown cloves stuck into its peel, adding texture and contrast. A dark brown cinnamon stick is inside the cup at the bottom, while another cinnamon stick leans against the inner side of the glass, partially submerged. On top of the lemon slice rests a star anise piece, adding a star shape and rich dark brown color. The background is softly blurred with warm orange tones that complement the drink's color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Classic Hot Toddy Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Classic Hot Toddy Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Classic Hot Toddy Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made this Classic Hot Toddy Recipe more times than I can count, especially on those crisp evenings where you just want to unwind. It’s fantastic because it’s quick to make and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand, but the flavor is anything but ordinary.

Simple Ingredients: It calls for just a few pantry staples, so you don’t need a special trip to the store.
Flexible Flavor: You can tweak it with different spices or spirits to match your taste perfectly.
Comfort in a Cup: The hot, fragrant blend feels like a warm hug on cold days or when you’re feeling run down.
Quick to Make: You’ll have your hot toddy ready in under 10 minutes, no fuss needed.

Two clear glass mugs filled with a warm amber liquid sit on a wooden board. Each mug has a thin lemon slice floating on top, garnished with small dark cloves scattered on the lemon. A star anise rests on the lemon slice, and a cinnamon stick stands upright inside each mug. To the side on the wooden board, two extra cinnamon sticks lie next to the mugs. A whole lemon and a cut lemon half are placed near the front of the board. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Classic Hot Toddy Recipe plays a role, balancing warmth, sweetness, and a little tang. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need and why each one matters for that perfect cup.

Flat lay of a thick lemon slice studded with whole cloves, a cinnamon stick, a star anise pod, a small jar of golden honey with a honey dipper beside it, fresh lemon wedges, a small bottle of whiskey, and a few drops of aromatic bitters arranged beautifully with a cup of steaming hot water, all placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Boiling Water: This is the base that heats everything and helps dissolve the honey right away.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness and heat.
Whiskey or Bourbon: The star of the show, bringing warmth with just the right kick and depth of flavor.
Aromatic Bitters: These little drops pack a punch, adding complexity and enhancing the spices.
Honey: Sweetness rounds out the drink and soothes your throat, especially if you’re battling a cold.
Whole Cloves: Optional, but they add an inviting spiced aroma when poked into a lemon slice.
Slice of Lemon: Used for garnish and extra citrus punch—it feels refreshing and pretty in the mug.
Cinnamon Stick: Another optional garnish that infuses the drink with warming spice over time.
Star Anise: Adds a subtle licorice note that complements the cinnamon and cloves beautifully.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I like to make this Classic Hot Toddy Recipe my own by playing around with the garnishes and the spirit. You can easily swap whiskey for rum or even a spiced brandy for a different spin. Trust me—it’s fun to experiment and find your favorite cozy combo.

Variation: One winter, I swapped the bourbon for aged rum and added star anise—it gave such a lovely, aromatic twist that surprised even me.
For a lighter version: Try using less honey or even a natural sweetener alternative like maple syrup.
Non-alcoholic: Skip the booze and amp up the spices and lemon for a healthy warm drink that comforts just as well.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Classic Hot Toddy Recipe

Step 1: Heat Your Water and Prep Mug

Start by boiling fresh water—fresh water truly makes a difference in taste. Pour about ½ cup of steaming-hot water into your favorite mug. Using a sturdy, heatproof mug helps keep your drink warm longer, which I appreciate on chilly nights.

Step 2: Add Lemon Juice, Whiskey, Bitters, and Honey

Next, squeeze 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice right into the mug. Then, pour in 4 tablespoons of your chosen whiskey or bourbon. Drop in 2-3 aromatic bitters and add 2-3 teaspoons of honey. Stir this gently until the honey fully dissolves—this step is key for a smooth, evenly sweetened drink.

Step 3: Garnish with Cloves, Lemon, and Spices

Poke whole cloves into a thick slice of lemon—it’s easier to handle and looks charming. Drop the clove-studded lemon into your mug. If you like, add a cinnamon stick and/or a star anise for that extra fragrance and flavor boost. Let them steep just a bit before you sip.

Top Tip

From many cozy nights spent making this Classic Hot Toddy Recipe, I’ve learned a few tricks that make all the difference.

Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t have the same freshness and brightness—it’s worth the squeeze.
Don’t Rush the Honey Dissolving: Stir enough so the honey melts completely, or you’ll get sweet lumps floating around.
Choose Your Spirit Wisely: A good-quality bourbon or whiskey adds smoothness; rougher spirits can leave the drink harsh.
Steep Garnishes: Let the cinnamon and star anise sit for a minute or two to release their full aroma before drinking.

How to Serve Classic Hot Toddy Recipe

Garnishes

I love using a lemon slice studded with whole cloves because it adds both scent and spice as you sip. A cinnamon stick doubles as a stirrer and infuser, while the star anise adds an elegant touch and subtle licorice undertone. These garnishes make it feel special, even on an ordinary night.

Side Dishes

This drink pairs wonderfully with a cheese board or lightly spiced nuts if you want a little nibble. For something sweeter, ginger cookies or a warm slice of apple pie really elevate that cozy vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served the Classic Hot Toddy Recipe in clear glass mugs to show off the lovely golden color, garnished with a curled lemon peel hanging on the rim. Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg on top is another fun presentation touch that guests rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftover hot toddy, store it in the fridge in a sealed container. I usually finish it within a day because the flavors and warmth don’t hold up as well once cooled.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing a hot toddy because the honey and citrus can separate, and the texture changes. It’s just better freshly made every time.

Reheating

If you do reheat leftovers, do it gently on the stove over low heat. Avoid the microwave if you can—it heats unevenly and can make the alcohol taste stronger and less smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make a Classic Hot Toddy Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! Simply omit the whiskey or bourbon and increase the amount of honey and lemon to keep it flavorful and comforting. You can also add extra spices like cinnamon and cloves for warmth without alcohol.

What type of whiskey is best for a hot toddy?

A smooth bourbon or rye whiskey works best because it adds depth and warmth without overpowering the other flavors. Avoid very harsh or low-quality spirits, as they can make the drink taste bitter or rough.

How long does a hot toddy stay good?

It’s best enjoyed immediately while it’s warm. If you store leftovers in the fridge, try to consume them within 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove and avoid microwaving for best flavor.

Can I prepare hot toddies for a group in advance?

While you can mix the honey, lemon, and bitters ahead of time, it’s best to add the hot water and whiskey right before serving to keep the drink fresh and prevent bitterness. Prepare garnishes beforehand to save time.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Hot Toddy Recipe has been my go-to comfort drink for years, whether I’m winding down on a chilly night or nursing a pesky cold. It’s the kind of warm, fragrant hug in a mug that never gets old. I really hope you give it a try and maybe even find a twist or two that makes it your own cozy favorite.