A warming and aromatic hot toddy infused with apple cider, warming spices, and your choice of whiskey that's perfect for cold evenings and cozy gatherings.
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 720ml fresh apple cider
- 240ml bourbon whiskey or Irish whiskey
- 60ml honey
- 60ml fresh lemon juice
- 4 sticks cinnamon sticks
- 8 whole cloves
- 2 pods star anise pods
- 1 medium orange, sliced into rounds
- 5cm piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 medium apple, cored and sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- pinch ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
-
In a large saucepan, combine 720ml fresh apple cider, 60ml honey, 4 sticks cinnamon sticks, 8 whole cloves, 2 pods star anise pods, 1 medium orange slices, and 5cm piece fresh ginger.
-
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let it steep for 10-12 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
-
Add 1 medium apple slices to the pot and simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the apples are just tender but still hold their shape.
-
Remove the pot from heat and stir in 240ml bourbon whiskey or Irish whiskey and 60ml fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust sweetness with additional honey if desired.
-
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, pressing gently on the solids to extract maximum flavor. Discard the solids except for a few apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish.
-
Stir in 2 tbsp unsalted butter until melted and well incorporated - this adds richness and helps meld the flavors.
-
Ladle the hot toddy into warmed mugs and garnish each with a reserved apple slice, cinnamon stick, and a light dusting of pinch ground nutmeg for garnish.
Tips
Apple Cider Quality: Use the best quality apple cider you can find - fresh-pressed cider from a local orchard makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Whiskey Selection: Bourbon adds warmth and vanilla notes, while Irish whiskey provides smoothness. Avoid overly expensive spirits as the spices will mask subtle flavors.
Spice Customization: Adjust spices to taste - add cardamom pods for complexity, or a few allspice berries for extra warmth. Fresh spices always work better than old ones.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Simply omit the whiskey and add an extra splash of lemon juice and honey to balance. Apple juice can substitute for cider if needed.
Make-Ahead Option: The spiced cider base can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and add whiskey just before serving.
Serving Temperature: Serve immediately while hot. If making for a party, keep warm in a slow cooker on low heat and let guests add their own whiskey.
Garnish Ideas: Try adding a few cranberries, a sprig of rosemary, or even a small piece of crystallized ginger for extra visual appeal and flavor.