Traditional Hot Toddy Recipe

Water: The base of the drink, used to dilute the other ingredients and create a warm beverage.

Honey: Adds natural sweetness and a soothing quality to the drink.

Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey.

Whiskey: The main spirit in the drink, adding warmth and depth of flavor.

Lemon slice: Used as a garnish to enhance the presentation and add a hint of citrus aroma.

Cinnamon stick: Adds a warm, spicy note and serves as a decorative stirrer.

To enhance the flavor of your hot toddy, consider using a high-quality whiskey with a smooth finish. Additionally, warming the lemon before squeezing it can help release more juice and essential oils, adding a richer citrus note to your drink.

• water - Substitute with herbal tea: Herbal tea can add additional flavors and aromas, enhancing the overall experience of the drink.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness with a unique, rich flavor profile.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though slightly more tart.

• whiskey - Substitute with rum: Rum can provide a different but equally warming and comforting flavor.

• lemon - Substitute with orange: An orange slice can add a sweeter and slightly different citrus note.

• cinnamon - Substitute with star anise: Star anise offers a warm, spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

• Allow the hot toddy to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and maintains the integrity of the flavors.
• Transfer the cooled hot toddy into an airtight container. Mason jars or glass bottles with tight-fitting lids work best to preserve the freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The hot toddy can be kept for up to 3 days. Beyond this, the flavors may start to degrade.
• When ready to enjoy, pour the hot toddy into a microwave-safe mug and heat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.
• If you prefer to freeze the hot toddy, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Seal the container tightly.
• Label the container with the date and contents. The hot toddy can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight. Reheat as mentioned above.
• Always garnish with a fresh lemon slice and cinnamon stick after reheating to maintain the vibrant presentation and enhance the aroma.

• Pour the leftover hot toddy into a small saucepan.
• Gently heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavors of the whiskey and lemon juice.
• Alternatively, transfer the hot toddy to a microwave-safe mug.
• Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Once reheated, garnish with a fresh lemon slice and cinnamon stick to enhance the presentation and aroma.

• Saucepan: Used to boil the water.

• Mug: Used to hold the hot toddy.

• Spoon: Used to stir the honey, lemon juice, and whiskey.

• Knife: Used to slice the lemon for garnish.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to slice the lemon.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the water.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the honey and lemon juice.

Boil water in advance: Keep a kettle of hot water ready to save time.

Use pre-squeezed lemon juice: Store freshly squeezed lemon juice in the fridge for quick access.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out honey and whiskey beforehand.

Microwave for speed: Heat water in the microwave instead of boiling on the stove.

Batch prep: Make multiple servings at once and store in a thermos to keep warm.