5 tea-infused Hot Toddy recipes to start the season
There are few offers as welcome on the first chilly nights of autumn as a hot drink by a crackling fire. This season, our top pick for warming up is a classic- the Hot Toddy. Whether you prefer the company of close friends or a good book, this fragrant, soothing drink is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the season.
The exact origin of the Hot Toddy is unclear, but many suggest it was first prepared in Scotland in the early 1700’s. The traditional version involves a base mixture of whisky, boiling water, tea, honey and lemon, garnished with a combination of cloves and cinnamon. Through the years, this delicious brew has been recreated using a range of flavors such as apple, ginger, pumpkin, maple syrup and bitters.
If you’ve never tried a Hot Toddy, here are 5 of our favorite tea-infused recipes sure to inspire you:
The Mad Hatter Toddy
An adventurous medley of apple, chocolate and coconut in the tea make this Toddy a standout
- 5 oz. Freshly Brewed “Buccaneer” Tea from SerendipiTea
- 1 1/2 oz. Christian Brothers V.S.O.P. Brandy
- 1 oz. TOSCHI Nocello Liqueur
- 1 1/2 tsp. Honey
- 1/2 Orange Slice (squeezed into drink, rind disposed after)
- 3 (generous) dashes of Nutmeg
Stir well, enjoy even more!!!
Makes about 9 oz.
Lisa M. Nahay/ Whiskey Blue New Orleans
Tattoo Toddy
African Rooibos, naturally sweet and caffeine-free, is an ideal base for this festive Toddy
- 1-1/2 oz Sailor Jerry Rum
- 1 oz fresh Lemon Juice
- 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
- 1-1/2 oz piping hot SerendipiTea Rooibos
- Dash orange Bitters
- Fresh Nutmeg
Mix first three ingredients in small mug, then add hot tea and dash of orange bitters. Garnish with fresh nutmeg.
Created by Wayne Curtis
Chai Rum Toddy
Curl up with this spicy, aromatic brew and a good book for a mellow evening at home
- 2 Masala Chai T-Bags from SerendipiTea
- 3 oz. aged rum
- 2 tsp. honey, or to taste
- 1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice
- 2 Cinnamon Sticks
Steep two cups of Masala Chai. To each cup add half the rum, honey and lemon juice. Garnish with cinnamon sticks.
Makes two servings.
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Capture the essence of autumn; this cider-sweetened Toddy is delicious on its own or paired with Snickerdoodles
- 2 Tsp Black Jack tea from SerendipiTea
- 1½ ounces bourbon
- 1 Tsp honey
- 1 ounce fresh apple cider
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Steep the tea for three minutes and discard the leaves. Add the bourbon, honey, cider and lemon. If desired, garnish with a cinnamon stick, star anise or a lemon slice.
Makes one serving.
Pumpkin Hot Toddy
Laced with classic pumpkin pie spices and capped with a dollop of whipped cream, this fragrant Toddy looks as good as it tastes
- 1 Tsp Allspice Chai from SerendipiTea
- ½ cup hot milk, or condensed milk for greater sweetness
- 2 Tsp Honey
- 2 oz Rum
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon
In a mug, pour boiling water over Chai and steep for five minutes. Strain leaves and spices. Add hot milk, honey and rum. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Makes one serving.
