Print

Apple Cider Hot Toddy Recipe – Warm & Easy Spiced Drink

Apple Cider Hot Toddy - featured image

A warm and spiced cocktail that combines the tartness of apple cider, the warmth of bourbon, and the depth of fall spices for a cozy and comforting drink.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) fresh apple cider
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 ounces (90 ml) bourbon
  • Optional garnish: thin apple slices and a twist of lemon peel

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups (480 ml) of fresh apple cider, 1 cup (240 ml) water, 2 cinnamon sticks, and 2 whole cloves. Heat over medium heat until just simmering, about 5 minutes.
  2. Once the mixture begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it gently cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally and don’t let it boil.
  3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of honey and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness as needed.
  4. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves.
  5. Pour the strained mixture evenly into two mugs. Add 1.5 ounces (45 ml) of bourbon to each mug and stir gently to combine.
  6. For a finishing touch, garnish with a cinnamon stick, a thin slice of apple, and a twist of lemon peel. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

[‘Unfiltered apple cider gives a richer flavor and texture compared to clear apple juice.’, ‘Don’t boil the cider to avoid muting or bittering the flavors.’, ‘Feel free to tweak the spices to suit your taste, such as adding ginger for a spicy kick.’, ‘Use quality bourbon for a better flavor profile.’, ‘You can prepare the cider mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add the bourbon just before serving.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Apple Cider Hot Toddy, Spiced Drink, Fall Cocktail, Warm Drink, Bourbon Cocktail, Cozy Drink, Holiday Drink