As soon as you feel a cold coming on, make yourself a Hot Toddy! This warm and comforting beverage is made of brewed tea with honey, lemon, and cozy spices stirred in. Although traditionally made with dark liquor, this recipe is non-alcoholic so the whole family can enjoy it!
It has been so cold lately, hot drinks have been the only thing getting me through this winter! Here are a few more of my favorite recipes that you should try next: wassail, Mexican hot chocolate, and Crockpot apple cider!
Hot Toddy Recipe
It’s cold out there! Winter finally hit Utah full-force, so I’ve been looking for ways to stay warm. Honestly, hot toddys are so underrated. If you’ve never had one before, it’s a cozy mix of brewed tea, honey, lemon, and spices. Aaand you’re going to want one in hand all winter long.
This hot toddy recipe is ideal for when you’re feeling under the weather. (Or just craving some wintery comfort!) And get this – it’s totally alcohol-free! So even kiddos can get in on the cozy action. But don’t worry, grown-ups, I got you covered. Scroll down for some liquor add-ins if you’re wanting to spice things up.
Ingredients in a Hot Toddy
Got the winter blues? This hot toddy recipe is here to warm your soul and maybe even soothe that tickle in your throat. It’s packed with immune-boosting goodness and winter flavors, and is completely alcohol-free! So grab your favorite mug and let’s dive into the delicious details:
- Black Tea: The base of the drink, black tea adds a kick of caffeine and comforting warmth. Choose your favorite – Chai, Earl Grey, English Breakfast for classic strength, or any other brew that tickles your fancy. You can also use herbal tea if you want something caffeine-free.
- Honey: Nature’s sweet soother, honey coats your throat and gives your immune system a little TLC. Plus, it also adds a touch of sweetness that complements the spice blend beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: A burst of vitamin C and a zesty counterpoint to the honey, fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness and wakes up your taste buds. Squeeze your own for maximum freshness, or if you’re feeling lazy, store-bought works just fine.
- Spices: Cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon create the best wintery flavor in your mug. They not only taste amazing, but help to boost your immune system and clear up your sinuses.
How to Make It
It’s so easy, and takes less than 5 minutes to mix up. Whenever you get a scratchy throat or feel under the weather, make yourself a hot toddy!
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the honey, lemon juice, and spices into the hot tea.
- Serve: Serve with a slice of lemon, cinnamon stick, and whole star anise.
Tips and Variations
Hot toddies are super easy to make, but there are a few ways to make them even better. Use these tips to upgrade yours!
- Strain: If you don’t like the grittiness of the spices, let the tea steep with the spices for 5 minutes before straining through a fine mesh sieve. Reheat if needed.
- Different Types of Tea: I used chai tea, but any black tea would be great with this recipe. For an alternative without caffeine or black tea, use chamomile or Bengal Spice tea.
- Fresh lemon juice is a must! Don’t use the bottled stuff, that has additives to make it shelf stable that will make the Toddy taste off.
- Adding Alcohol: For an alcoholic kick, add 1 ½ ounces of dark liquor, such as brandy, rum, bourbon, whiskey, scotch, or cognac.
How Long Will a Hot Toddy Last?
Hot toddys are best made fresh. Discard any leftovers and make a fresh cup when you’re ready for another!
More Hot Drinks to Enjoy All Winter Long!
Hot Toddy
Ingredients
- 8 ounces hot brewed tea preferably black tea
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Stir 2 teaspoons honey, 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, 1 pinch ground cloves, ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon into the 8 ounces hot brewed tea.
- Serve with a slice of lemon, cinnamon stick, and whole star anise.