One of the most beloved warm winter drinks is the Hot Toddy. The traditional hot toddy incorporates bourbon, lemon, cinnamon or star anise, and honey. Some say that the ingredients in the hot toddy can help soothe common cold symptoms. Lemon provides a slight boost of vitamin C and honey will coat a sore throat. Star anise, a Chinese herb that tastes like licorice, is known for its anti-fungal and antioxidant properties.
Don’t be afraid to adjust this drink to your personal tastes. If you prefer rum or brandy, those spirits will work, too! Or, if you’re not a honey lover or are vegan, agave nectar also works as a sweetener. Don’t be afraid to put a little cream in this drink as well to give it a beautiful camel color and creamy taste.
Ingredients:
1 oz. Bourbon
Lemon juice
Lemon slice
Tablespoon of honey
Nutmeg
Cinnamon stick or star anise
Hot water
Optional: Cream or half and half
Instructions:
- Boil a small amount of hot water.
- Pour the honey into your favorite mug.
- Add 1 oz. of Bourbon and the hot water into the mug with the honey.
- Add 1 cinnamon stick
- Squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the mug and add the slice of lemon on top.
- Let the drink stand for about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the top with a pinch of nutmeg.
Enjoy responsibly!