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HOT TODDY: THE ULTIMATE HOT DRINK

Got a sore throat? Hot toddy.

Common cold? Hot toddy.

Headache? Hot toddy.

Cold hands? Hot toddy.

I may not be a doctor, but I can tell you that this cocktail will definitely warm you up if you’re feeling down. (Note: I really am not a doctor, and you shouldn’t rely on me for medical advice!)

The hot toddy drink is perhaps the best known “hot cocktail” and for good reason: It’s classic, easy to make, and downright delicious.

Thirsty? Skip to the recipes!

THE HISTORY OF THE HOT TODDY

As with most cocktails, the history is a bit fuzzy. (It’s almost like people weren’t thinking clearly and failed to document the process. Hmm.) The best information we could find indicated that this drink is probably based on a very old Hindi drink called a “taddy.” According to a 1786 definition, these were the ingredients for a taddy:

Fermented Palm Sap
Hot water
Sugar
Spices

Look familiar? It’s almost the same as the Hindi “Punch” recipe we’ve featured in the past– but hot!

In modern times, the hot toddy is perhaps best known as being medicinal. This folklore probably started with Dr. Robert Hentley Todd, an Irish physician who was known to prescribe a hot drink of brandy, cinnamon, sugar syrup, and water.

Regardless of its history, this is a delicious hot drink to have in your repertoire during the cold months!

HOW TO MAKE A HOT TODDY:

HOT TODDY VARIATIONS:

The best part about simple cocktails is how easy they are to adapt and customize. This one is no exception! As we discussed in the video, take a look at this Cocktail Family drawing Chris created:

HOT TODDY VARIATIONS:

The best part about simple cocktails is how easy they are to adapt and customize. This one is no exception! As we discussed in the video, take a look at this Cocktail Family drawing Chris created:

And although whiskey is traditional, some people swear by rum (or other spirits) as the base alcohol. Others love using brown sugar instead of white sugar. I’m curious for you to tell us which variation is your favorite!

We have two options for a hot toddy recipe for you, one including ginger and one that requires a prepared lemon peel with cloves.

Side note: If you’re avoiding alcohol, a non-alcoholic hot toddy can simply omit the base liquor for a hot beverage of honey & lemon water… Or use a spirit alternative like Seedlip. You can still add the fun garnishes for all the flavors, too!

COPPER BELL JIGGER

This jigger is the real deal. It’s rounded shape makes it extra comfortable in your hand, while its internal markings make it easy to read and measure your ingredients. Oh, and did I mention the beautiful mirrored copper finish? A trusty and beautiful choice for your backbar!

HOT TODDY VARIATIONS:

The best part about simple cocktails is how easy they are to adapt and customize. This one is no exception! As we discussed in the video, take a look at this Cocktail Family drawing Chris created:

INGREDIENTS

1.5 oz Bourbon or whiskey
0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
0.75 oz Honey
4-6 oz Hot Water
1 ea Lemon Twist (for garnish)
6-8 ea Whole cloves (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Add hot water to serving glass to warm the glass. Dump the water.
Now add the 4-6 oz of hot water and remaining ingredients.
Stir and garnish with a clove-studded lemon peel (or lemon slice).
Optional traditional garnish alternative: Cinnamon stick

A Cure for Wellness – Hot Toddy Recipe

2oz Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey 
3/4oz Ginger-Honey Syrup
3/4oz Fresh Lemon Juice
3 1/2oz Boiling Water

INSTRUCTIONS:

Add hot water to serving glass to warm the glass. Dump the water.
Build all ingredients into your mug of choice. Stir until syrup melts.

Garnish: Lemon Zest and Candied Ginger

 

Bar Solution

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