Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic23.7% ABV5 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Easy
Why: 5 ingredients
Best for: BBQ, Steak, Winter / Cozy
Ingredients
BaseModifierCitrus
- 50 mlWhiskeyBase
- 15 mlHoneyModifier
- 1CinnamonModifier
- 1LemonCitrus
- 2ClovesModifier
How to Make It
- STEP 1
- Whisk the whisky and honey together and split between 2 heatproof glasses. Add half of the cinnamon stick to each, then top up with 200ml boiling water.
- STEP 2
- Add a splash of lemon juice to each, then taste and add more to your preference. Finish each with a slice of lemon, studded with a clove, and serve immediately.ServeServing style affects temperature, dilution and presentation.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.CitrusLime can replace lemon juice in a pinch but it tastes more floral and slightly sweeter, so the drink will taste different. Reduce any syrup by a small amount if swapping. Orange juice is a softer, less acidic option — use it when you want a rounder, less sharp result.SweetenerHoney syrup is thicker and more aromatic than simple syrup. Agave is a clean swap — similar sweetness but lighter body. If you use plain sugar syrup, the drink will taste sharper and less complex. Warm honey with equal parts water first so it dissolves properly in cold drinks.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Hot Toddy?
- The Hot Toddy is a cocktail made with 5 ingredients, traditionally served in a Irish Coffee Cup. It has an ABV of approximately 23.7%. A standard serving contains approximately 179 calories.
- What does a Hot Toddy taste like?
- Hot Toddy has a flavour profile featuring Spice, Honey, Lemon, Citrus. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Hot Toddy?
- Hot Toddy pairs well with BBQ, Steak. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Hot Toddy?
- The Hot Toddy has an ABV of approximately 23.7%. That's approximately 1.27 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 179 calories, 13.1g sugar, 15.1g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Hot Toddy typically served?
- Hot Toddy is a popular choice for Winter / Cozy, BBQ / Cookout. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Hot Toddy?
- If you enjoy Hot Toddy, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Hot Toddy at home?
- Yes. The Hot Toddy uses 5 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Irish Coffee Cup. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Hot Toddy with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.