If you’ve ever searched for how to make a hot tottie and felt a little overwhelmed by complicated recipes, you’re in the right place. A hot toddy (or “hot tottie,” as it’s often typed) is actually one of the easiest cozy drinks you can make at home—no fancy tools, no bartending skills, just a few pantry staples and a mug.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make a hot tottie that’s simple, quick, and totally comforting. With just hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon, you can have a warm, soothing drink ready in minutes—perfect for chilly nights, quiet evenings on the couch, or a little wind-down ritual before bed.
When the weather turns chilly and you want something warming right now, a hot toddy is hard to beat. It’s soothing, simple, and comes together in about the same time it takes to boil water.
This version is a classic: hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon—light, hydrating, and not overly sweet. Think of it as the cozy cousin of mulled wine or cider, but much quicker and easier.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day, playing cards with family, or looking for a low-effort holiday cocktail, this hot toddy is your new go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Toddy
- Ready in 5 minutes – Boil, stir, sip. That’s it.
- Simple ingredients – You likely have everything on hand.
- Light, not syrupy – More refreshing than heavy mulled drinks.
- Customizable – Make it sweeter, more tart, stronger, or alcohol-free.
- Comfort in a mug – Lovely as a nightcap or slow sipper by the sofa.
Ingredients (Single Serving)
- ¾ cup hot water
- 1½ ounces whiskey
- Any good whiskey works: rye, Irish, or your favorite bottle.
- 2 to 3 teaspoons honey, to taste
- 2 to 3 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, to taste
- 1 lemon slice (round), for garnish
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional) – for a little flair and gentle spice
Quick & Easy Method
- Heat the water Bring ¾ cup water to a simmer in a kettle or small saucepan.
- Build the drink Pour the hot water into your favorite mug. Add:
- 1½ ounces whiskey
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Stir & taste Stir until the honey is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust:
- Add 1 more teaspoon honey if you want it sweeter.
- Add 1 more teaspoon lemon juice if you like extra zing.
- Garnish & enjoy Top with a lemon round and a cinnamon stick if you’re using one. Sip slowly while it’s warm.
Total time: about 5 minutes.
Effort level: practically zero.
Make It Your Own
Once you’ve tried the classic, it’s fun (and still quick!) to experiment:
- Switch the spirit
- Use dark rum for a round, caramel-like flavor.
- Try brandy for something soft and elegant.
- Spice it up (still fast!)
- Add a slice of fresh ginger to the mug before pouring in hot water.
- Drop in one or two whole cloves for a subtle, cozy spice note.
- Caffeine twist
- Swap hot water for hot herbal tea (like chamomile, ginger, or lemon).
- Use black tea if you want a gentle caffeine boost.
Alcohol-Free “Toddy” Option
If you’re skipping alcohol—or taking cold medicine—go for a comforting mocktail version:
- ¾ cup hot water (or herbal tea)
- 2–3 teaspoons honey
- 2–3 teaspoons lemon juice
- Optional: ginger slice, cinnamon stick, or cloves
Stir everything together in a mug until the honey dissolves. Same soothing vibes, no alcohol.
Hot Toddy & Colds
Many people like a hot toddy when they feel under the weather because:
- Warm liquid can feel comforting on a sore throat.
- Honey and lemon are classic soothing ingredients.
That said:
- Go light on the whiskey, or skip it entirely, so your body can rest.
- Avoid alcohol if you’re taking over-the-counter or prescription medications, or if your doctor advises against it.
A simple mixture of hot water (or herbal tea), honey, and lemon is a wonderful non-alcoholic alternative when you’re not feeling your best.
Final Sip
This hot toddy is the kind of recipe you memorize after making it once:
hot water + whiskey + honey + lemon, then adjust until it tastes just right to you.
If you try it, play around with the honey and lemon amounts—tiny changes make a big difference. Enjoy your cozy mug!
