A Hot Toddy should feel like a blanket in a mug—steaming, spiced, and soothing without being cloyingly sweet. This version layers Spirit of Choice or Zero Proof Spirit Alternative with Top Hat Extra Spicy Ginger Beer Syrup, Fresh Pressed Lemon Juice, and Honey Simple Syrup, then finishes with warm baking spices for a cozy, modern take on the classic winter nightcap.
Think of this Hot Toddy as your house winter special: a blend of Brandy, Whiskey, Aged Rum, Spirit of Choice or Zero Proof Spirit Alternative, spiked with Top Hat Extra Spicy Ginger Beer Syrup, Fresh Pressed Lemon Juice, and Honey Simple Syrup. Finished with Winter Spiced Bitters, whole spices, and a whisper of nutmeg, it’s built to be sippable, soothing, and easy to repeat all season long.
Method
- Warm your heatproof mug with a splash of hot water, then discard.
- Add 1.5–2 oz Brandy, Whiskey, Aged Rum, Spirit of Choice or Zero Proof Spirit Alternative to the mug.
- Add 1.5 oz Top Hat Extra Spicy Ginger Beer Syrup.
- Add 0.5 oz Fresh Pressed Lemon Juice and 0.5 oz Honey Simple Syrup.
- Add 3 dashes Winter Spiced Bitters.
- Top with hot water (about 4–6 oz), then gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a whole cinnamon stick, 4 whole cloves, a pinch of ground nutmeg, and optional sliced apple.
Pro move: Start with 1.5 oz of spirit for an easier sipper, or bump to 2 oz for a stronger nightcap. Adjust Honey Simple Syrup to taste depending on how dry your spirit and mood are.