The Hot Toddy Recipe: Bourbon's Answer to Cold Weather
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Master the hot toddy with bourbon, honey, and lemon. Learn optimal water temp, honey types, and why this Scottish remedy became America's cold-weather classic.
Ingredients
Instructions
Heat the water: Bring water to a boil, then let it cool for 60-90 seconds to reach 175-185°F. You want it hot enough to dissolve honey and release aromatics, but not so hot it vaporizes the alcohol or scalds your tongue on the first sip.
Warm the mug: Pour a splash of hot water into your mug, swirl it around to heat the glass, then discard. This step prevents temperature shock and keeps your toddy warm longer.
Add honey and lemon juice: Spoon the honey into your warmed mug, add the fresh lemon juice. The acid helps break down the honey structure.
Add hot water: Pour in 2 oz of hot water first, stir until the honey completely dissolves. This pre-dilution ensures even sweetness throughout the drink.
Add bourbon: Pour in your bourbon, stir gently to integrate.
Top with remaining water: Add the remaining 4 oz of hot water, stir once more.
Add aromatics: Drop in your lemon wheel, cinnamon stick, and cloves if using. The heat will release their oils as you drink.
Let it breathe: Wait 30-45 seconds before your first sip. The flavors need a moment to marry, and you need to avoid burning your mouth.