Apple cider hot toddy has the additional kick of spiced apple cider. Hot toddy is a classic winter beverage that is served warm and strong.
Sometimes the week goes by terribly, unbelievably slow and Friday can’t come soon enough.
And then there are other days that zoom by without any warning and next thing you know, wham, bam! For days when everything is happening too fast, a stiff drink is definitely in order.
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Spiced Cider Hot Toddy
Hot toddy is a classic winter beverage. It is served warm and strong.
This apple cider hot toddy is comprised of the same components of a tradition toddy with the additional kick of spiced apple cider.
Apple cider hot toddy is my drink of choice as I try to relax and regain my sanity before I must start planning the menu for Thanksgiving dinner.
INGREDIENT INTEL: What is apple cider?
The labeling of “apple cider” versus “apple juice” varies from state to state. The apple cider used in this recipe refers to unfiltered apple juice. Unfiltered apple juice is a bit cloudier and thicker than your standard boxed apple juice.
Apple cider should only have one ingredient- apples!
Visit an apple orchard or a local farmers’ market to find real deal fresh pressed apple cider.
Don’t confused “apple cider” for hard cider, alcoholic apple cider, or sparkling apple cider. Those are completely different products!
Liquor Options
I used “honey whiskey” to amp up the honey flavors. Many brands carry this honey version.
The most popular readily available ones include: Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Wild Turkey American Honey, and Jim Bean Honey Bourbon Whiskey.
You may substitute in any bourbon or whiskey of your choice.
Rum and brandy are also great substitutes in place of whiskey.
Large Batch Hot Toddy
This hot toddy is easy to scale up for a large crowd or party. The following recipe makes 15 servings.
Serve the hot cider in a slow cooker (or crockpot) to keep it warm.
In a large pot or slow cooker pot, combine:
- 50 oz apple cider
- 10 cinnamon stocks
- 10 star anise
- 40 whole cloves
Bring to a boil. Steep spices for 10-15 minutes. Strain out spices.
Add in:
- 8 Tbsp honey
- 2o oz whiskey
- 5 Tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
Stir to combine. Add more honey or sugar depending on your sweetness preferences. Serve warm. Garnish with sliced apples, sliced lemons, and cinnamon sticks.
While this cocktail is best served warm, it is quite refreshing when served over ice!
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Ingredients
- 10 oz apple cider
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise
- 8 whole cloves
- 1 ½ Tablespoon honey
- 4 oz honey whiskey, or whiskey of choice
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- In a saucepot, combine apple cider, cinnamon, star anise, and cloves. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and cover with a lid. Allow spices to steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain spices. Stir in honey to dissolve. Add whiskey and lemon juice. Stir to combine. Add more honey according to taste, if desired. Serve with sliced apples, sliced lemons, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
Notes
- I used honey whiskey to amp up the honey flavors. You can also substitute rum or brandy. If you like drinks sweet, add a ton of honey as this drink is pretty strong.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Like this recipe? Rate & comment below!
What should my new favorite winter drink be called?
It’s Hot hard apple cider with a shot of Jameson?
Suggestions for simple additions are welcome! I want to call it something appropriate for its Jameson root.