How to Make a Hot Toddy: Whisky, Honey and Lemon

A Hot Toddy is whisky, honey, lemon and hot water. It is the standard winter remedy for a cold night and takes about five minutes.

The recipe is flexible. Scotch, bourbon, rye and Irish whiskey all work.

• Whisky: Scotch, bourbon or Irish whiskey
• Glass: Mug or heatproof glass
• Method: Built with hot water
• Time: 5 minutes
• Makes: 1 serving

Hot Toddy Ingredients

For one drink, you will need:

• 1½–2 oz (45–60 ml) whisky
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
• 4 oz (120 ml) hot water, just off the boil
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2–3 whole cloves
• Lemon slice, to garnish

How to Make a Hot Toddy

1. Add the honey and lemon juice to a mug.
2. Pour in the hot water and stir until the honey dissolves.
3. Add the whisky. Add it last, so the heat does not burn off the aroma.
4. Add the cinnamon stick and cloves, plus a lemon slice.
5. Steep for 1–2 minutes and sip while warm.

What Does Hot Toddy Taste Like?

Warming whisky, sweet honey and lemon, with soft cinnamon spice.

Tips for a Better Hot Toddy

• Do not use boiling water. Let the kettle sit for a minute.
• Add the whisky last for the best aroma.
• Use a flavourful whisky with some sweetness. Bourbon, Irish and speyside Scotch all suit the drink.

Hot Toddy Variations

• Spiced Toddy: Add a star anise pod and a slice of fresh ginger.
• Apple Toddy: Replace half the hot water with warm apple cider.
• Tea Toddy: Use hot black or chamomile tea instead of water.

Best Whisky for a Hot Toddy

Bourbon or a honeyed Speyside Scotch such as Glenfiddich 12 give a rounded, sweet drink. Irish whiskey is also a classic choice.

Hot Toddy: quick answers

Does a hot toddy help with a cold?

It will soothe a sore throat and help you relax, but it will not cure a cold. Honey and warm liquids offer some comfort, and alcohol is not a medicine.

What whisky is best in a hot toddy?

Choose something smooth and slightly sweet. Bourbon, Irish whiskey and Speyside Scotch are all good.

Can I make a hot toddy without honey?

Yes. Use maple syrup, brown sugar or demerara syrup.

More Whisky Recipes

Try Mint Julep · Brown Derby · Gold Rush, or browse all whisky recipes. Learn more in our Bourbon style guide.