Hot Toddy Cocktail Recipe

Heal your cold and soothe your soul

Winter’s not all bad, right? Sure, it’s freezing, and at some point, everyone’s battling a cold, but I like to find the silver lining. One of my favorite bright sides is a warm soothing hot toddy.

Hot toddies are the ultimate winter drink. They’re warm, soothing, and feel like a little act of self-care. This hot toddy recipe is perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather. You can go alcohol-free or add a splash of whiskey for that extra “ahhh,”

This recipe is more of a guideline than a rulebook—tweak it to match your vibe. Want it sweeter? More honey. Tangier? Extra lemon. Feeling bold? Double the whiskey. You get the idea.

Ingredients

• 1 cup boiling water

• 2 tbsp honey (or more, if you like it sweet)

• 1 lemon

• 1 or more tea bags (I like Throat Coat or Breathe Easy for colds)

• 1 shot whiskey, bourbon, or scotch

• 1 cinnamon stick or ½ tsp cinnamon powder

• ½–1 tsp ground clove

• ½–1 tsp mustard seeds

  
  

Instructions

1. Boil Water: Bring about a cup of water to a boil.

2. Prep Your Ingredients: Slice your lemon, crush the mustard seeds, and toss everything except the whiskey into your favorite mug—honey, cloves, cinnamon, tea bags, and lemon slices.

3. Brew It: Once the water’s boiling, pour it into the mug. Let everything steep for 3–5 minutes. The flavors will start blending into something magical.

4. Strain (Optional): If you used whole spices, you might notice some bits floating around. You can drink them for an extra hit of medicine, but if that’s not your thing, strain the liquid into a clean mug for a smoother brew.

5. Add the Whiskey: Stir in your shot of whiskey (or skip it if you’re keeping it booze-free). Give it a good mix.

6. Sip and Enjoy: Find a cozy spot, grab a blanket, and enjoy your warm, soothing drink.

The Magic:

• Honey is good for cough and sore throat

• Lemon is packed with vitamin C to help support your immune system. It also breaks up mucus

• Cloves help reduce inflammation and unblock your sinus

• Mustard seeds are also a natural decongestant

• Cinnamon adds a comforting warmth, but it also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties

• Whiskey has been used in home remedies for ages. While it’s not a cure-all, a little whiskey can help you relax, ease sinus pressure, and promote sleep.

Pro Tips

• Overdid the whiskey? Add more honey to balance it out.

• Don’t have fancy tea? Basic black tea works great in a pinch.

• Make it an experience: slow down, sip it warm, and let the coziness take over.

The next time you’re sniffling or just need something warm and comforting, give this hot toddy a try. It’s like a hug in a mug and a winter must-have in my house.

Cheers to staying cozy this season!

With love and light,

Chika B.