This spiced cinnamon hot apple toddy is a delightful warm beverage perfect for chilly evenings or relaxing moments.
Made with apple cider and fragrant spices like cinnamon and cloves, it offers a comforting, mildly sweet taste.
It's easy to prepare and can be made with or without alcohol depending on your preference.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and apple cider creates a rich, layered flavor that comforts like no other.
- Heating the drink allows the spices to infuse fully, enhancing the aroma and taste.
- Optional lemon juice adds a bright, balancing acidity to the sweetness of the cider.
Spiced Cinnamon Hot Apple Toddy
A warm, comforting drink combining apple cider with cinnamon and cloves for cozy evenings.
- Prep time
- 5 minutes
- Cook time
- 10 minutes
- Servings
- 2
- Yield
- 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups (480 ml) apple cider
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup, optional
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, optional
- 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 ml) whiskey or bourbon, optional
- Lemon slices and cinnamon sticks, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Spiced Apple Cider In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Heat over medium heat until hot but not boiling, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sweeten and Add Lemon Remove from heat and stir in honey or maple syrup if using. Add fresh lemon juice if desired for brightness.
- Add Whiskey (Optional) and Serve If using, stir in the whiskey or bourbon. Pour the hot apple toddy into heat-safe mugs, garnish each with a lemon slice and a cinnamon stick, and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips
- Use 100% pure apple cider for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Do not boil the apple cider to preserve its fresh taste and avoid bitterness from spices.
- Adjust the amount of honey/maple syrup based on your preferred sweetness level.
- When heating the toddy, aim for a serving temperature around 130°F (54°C) to enjoy warmth without scalding.
- If serving to children or those avoiding alcohol, simply omit the whiskey or bourbon.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store any leftover spiced apple cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat to 130°F (54°C) before serving. Do not boil.
Do not store the toddy with whiskey added for extended periods; add alcohol fresh at serving time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this hot apple toddy without alcohol?
Yes, simply omit the whiskey or bourbon. The spiced apple cider on its own is delicious and comforting.
What spices can I add besides cinnamon and cloves?
You can add star anise, allspice berries, or a small piece of fresh ginger for extra flavor.
How can I sweeten the toddy naturally?
Honey or pure maple syrup are excellent natural sweeteners that also add flavor.
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