Print

Cozy Apple Cider Hot Toddy Recipe Easy Homemade Winter Warm-Up

cozy apple cider hot toddy - featured image

A warm and comforting hot toddy made with apple cider, cinnamon stick, and optional whiskey, perfect for chilly winter nights and late-night cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider, preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened
  • 1.5 oz (45 ml) whiskey or bourbon (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey, raw or local
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 23 whole cloves (optional)
  • 1 star anise (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of apple cider and 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water into a saucepan. Add 1 cinnamon stick, 2-3 whole cloves, and 1 star anise if using.
  2. Heat gently over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until steaming but not boiling to release the spices’ aroma.
  3. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice until honey dissolves.
  4. Pour in 1.5 oz (45 ml) whiskey or bourbon if using.
  5. Strain the hot toddy into a mug or carefully ladle while holding back the spices. Garnish with the simmered cinnamon stick.
  6. Let the drink sit for a minute to cool slightly, then sip slowly and enjoy.

Notes

Do not boil the cider to preserve its fresh apple flavor. Adjust honey sweetness to taste. Let spices steep for at least 5 minutes for full flavor. Fresh lemon juice is preferred over bottled. For non-alcoholic version, omit whiskey and add extra apple cider or cinnamon tea. Cinnamon stick can be reused once or twice after rinsing and drying.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot toddy, apple cider, winter drink, cinnamon, whiskey, warm beverage, cozy drink, homemade hot toddy