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.
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.
What is apple cider?
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.
Serve the hot cider in a slow cooker (or crockpot) to keep it warm.
Cider Hot Toddy for 15 servings
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.
Bring on the apple recipes!! The more the better, in my opinion. Especially if there is alcohol involved…:-). Gorgeous drink!
Thank you Liz! There’s another apple recipe coming up this week ;) I have to space them out so I don’t get tried of them!
You really are a genius when it comes to boozy beverages. I love your creativity with this hot toddy. And honey whiskey is my all time favorite! Pinning!
Thanks Jen! :)
I really wish I had one of these hot toddys to devour right now.. I can definitely see myself making the recipe this upcoming Christmas season too!
I wish I could just send you a cup! This would totally be perfect for the Christmas season!
Oh this is just incredible!! I am all about apples this week, this month and hopefully all winter :)
Thank you Zainab! :)
These look absolutely delicious and I love your photos!
Thank you Annie! :)
No, seriously. I feel like you’ve been making all your recipes especially for me this past week or so. DELICIOUS.
Maybe I am… :)
This looks delicious! Can you make this in a crock pot to keep warm throughout a dinner party? If so when would you add the alcohol?
Hi Julie! Follow the directions as is, including adding the alcohol. Then you can transfer it to a crock pot and keep it warm on the low setting. The whiskey should not evaporate.
I love a good hot toddy especially now that the nights are getting cooler in LA, finally! This looks so delicious!
Hi, if you I want to serve the drink with a foam, what kind of foam would you recommend? Thanks.
I would make a honey form or caramel foam.
I enjoy making hot beverages when its snowing and cold and I appreciate you letting me share your recipes with you
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.