My Apple Cider Hot Toddy is the perfect warm cocktail to serve on a cool fall day. Whether you serve this outdoors or indoors, you are sure to warm up your guests and make them feel comforted with this cocktail!
Putting a Fall Twist on a Classic Cocktail
The Hot Toddy is a classic cocktail, traditionally made with whiskey, hot water, lemon, and honey. This cocktail is served warm and is the ultimate cozy drink that is perfect for chilly fall and winter days.
My Apple Cider Hot Toddy takes the classic to a whole new level by adding a seasonal fall twist with the rich, spiced flavour of apple cider. Not only does it add sweetness and depth, but it also enhances the fall vibe, making this version ideal for any autumn gathering! I also use bourbon instead of whiskey as I find that bourbon has a more complex, deep flavour that is perfect for fall cocktails.
You can buy apple cider at local markets or farms during the fall months, or you can make your own at home! My Homemade Apple Cider recipe is super easy and inexpensive to make. You can use your favourite apples in this recipe and even mix different varieties together to make a totally custom apple cider. You can also add whatever fall slices that you like as well such as cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, or star anise. Check out this recipe to make it right at home!
How to Serve this Warm Cocktail at a Fall Party
Just like the classic cocktail, this Apple Cider Hot Toddy is served warm. I like to serve this cocktail at the beginning of a party on a particularly chilly fall day to warm my guests up as they arrive. Additionally, I also like to serve this at the end of a meal. I find that the warm cocktail soothes the stomach and helps aid with digestion. It also acts a bit like a dessert since this cocktail is slightly sweet with the apple cider and honey that is in it.
Follow these tips to serve this fabulous Apple Cider Hot Toddy:
- Warm the Apple Cider: Whether homemade or store-bought, warm the apple cider in a pot on the stove. Make sure that you just keep it at a simmer and don’t boil it.
- Add Honey and Bourbon to Mugs: Add about a tablespoon of honey to the bottom of each glass along with 1 oz. of bourbon. Use a spoon to gently mix them together.
- Pour In the Apple Cider: Add the apple cider to the honey and bourbon, then mix again to combine. Mix until the honey has completely dissolved.
- Garnish: Garnish each drink with a cinnamon stick and a slice of lemon to add a hint of spice and brightness to this cocktail. Guests can also use the cinnamon as a stir stick, which is always fun for any cocktail!
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 4 oz. bourbon
- 2 lemon wedges
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 4 slices lemon
Instructions
- Place the apple cider in a small pot and bring to a simmer on the stove.
- While the apple cider is heating up, prepare the mugs for serving. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the bottom of each mug followed by 1 oz. of bourbon. Use a spoon to mix to combine.
- Once the apple cider is hot, divide it evenly amongst the four mugs. Use a spoon to mix to combine, ensuring that the honey is fully dissolved.
- Squeeze about a teaspoon of lemon juice into each mug from the two wedges of lemon. This adds a bit of brightness and cuts through the strong flavour of the bourbon.
- Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick and a slice of lemon. Serve immediately and enjoy warm!
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