When the cold winds roll in and twinkling lights start brightening up the neighborhood, there’s no better way to welcome the season than with a warm, comforting drink in hand. One of the most inviting winter cocktails you can make is the Apple Cider Hot Toddy — a cozy twist on the classic toddy that’s infused with the sweetness of apple cider, the warmth of bourbon, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and honey.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, winding down after a busy day, or simply craving something to take the chill off, this hot apple cider toddy is the perfect companion for your holiday season.
What Is an Apple Cider Hot Toddy?
Traditionally, a hot toddy is a simple mix of whiskey, hot water, honey, and lemon — often used as a soothing drink during cold weather or even as a home remedy for a sore throat. The Apple Cider Hot Toddy takes this concept to the next level by swapping the hot water for warm, spiced apple cider. The result? A drink that’s smooth, aromatic, slightly sweet, and undeniably festive.
Unlike other cocktails, a hot toddy apple cider doesn’t need fancy tools or ingredients — just a bit of time, good cider, and a few pantry staples. It’s the kind of drink that feels nostalgic, comforting, and classy all at once.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Hot Toddy Recipe
This apple cider hot toddy recipe strikes the perfect balance between cozy and refreshing. Here’s why it deserves a spot at your next holiday get-together:
- Warming and soothing: Perfect for chilly nights or after a day outdoors.
- Crowd-friendly: Easily scalable for large batches.
- Customizable: You can make it boozy, mild, or completely non-alcoholic.
- Beautifully aromatic: The scent of cinnamon, cloves, and apple fills the room.
- Easy to make: Takes less than 15 minutes and no fancy bar tools required.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make one serving of this delightful hot apple cider toddy. You can multiply the recipe for larger gatherings.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes / Tips |
| Apple cider (unfiltered) | 1 ½ cups | Choose quality, unfiltered cider for best flavor |
| Bourbon or whiskey | 1 ½ – 2 oz | Adjust based on your taste preference |
| Honey | 2 – 3 tsp | You can also use maple syrup for a twist |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Adds brightness and balance |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 | For steeping and garnish |
| Fresh ginger (optional) | ½ inch slice | Adds warmth and a little spice |
| Whole cloves (optional) | 2 – 3 | Deepens the holiday flavor |
| Apple slice or lemon wedge | For garnish | Adds a festive touch |
Pro Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, skip the bourbon and enjoy it as a spiced hot apple cider toddy recipe — perfect for all ages.
How to Make a Hot Apple Cider Toddy
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect apple cider hot toddy that your guests will rave about.
Step 1: Warm the Cider
In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon stick, ginger, and cloves (if using). Heat gently over medium heat until it starts to steam. Avoid boiling it — simmering too hard can reduce the flavor and sweetness.
Step 2: Sweeten and Blend
Once hot, stir in the honey (or maple syrup) until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness to your preference. Some ciders are naturally sweet, so go light on the honey at first.
Step 3: Add the Lemon and Bourbon
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the lemon juice and bourbon. The citrus cuts through the sweetness and gives your hot toddy apple cider a bright, refreshing finish.
Step 4: Pour and Garnish
Pour the mixture into a heatproof mug. Garnish with an apple slice, a lemon wedge, or a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately while it’s warm and fragrant.
Batch Recipe for Holiday Parties
Hosting a crowd? No problem — this drink scales beautifully! Here’s how to make about 8 servings:
- 12 cups apple cider
- 1 to 1 ½ cups bourbon
- ½ cup honey (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 3–4 lemons
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger
- 8–10 whole cloves
Directions:
Add all ingredients (except bourbon) to a large pot or slow cooker. Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes to allow the spices to infuse. Remove from heat, stir in bourbon, and ladle into mugs. Keep warm on the “low” setting of your slow cooker during your party so guests can help themselves.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values based on one serving with bourbon:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 180–220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25–30 g |
| Sugar | 22–25 g |
| Protein | 0–1 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5–10 mg |
| Alcohol content | Varies based on spirit used |
For a lighter version, use less honey or skip the alcohol. For a more indulgent sip, top with a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips for the Best Hot Apple Cider Toddy
When creating menu items or featured recipes, there’s always tension between flavor, consistency, cost, and flexibility. This chicken salad hits the sweet spot:
- Use high-quality cider: The flavor of your drink depends heavily on your cider. Go for local or fresh-pressed options rather than store-bought apple juice.
- Balance your sweetness: Start with less honey and add more as needed — different ciders vary in sweetness.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding a star anise pod, nutmeg, or a pinch of cayenne for a deeper flavor.
- Garnish beautifully: A cinnamon stick and a thin apple slice floating on top make it Instagram-worthy.
- Serve it warm, not scalding: Let it cool for a minute before sipping. The flavors come through better when it’s pleasantly warm rather than piping hot.
Fun Variations to Try
- Spiced Rum Version: Swap the bourbon for spiced rum for a sweeter, tropical twist.
- Maple Apple Toddy: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a deeper, woodsy sweetness.
- Citrus Boost: Add a splash of orange juice and an orange slice for a tangy finish.
- Herbal Touch: Drop in a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a subtle, aromatic surprise.
- Zero-Proof Delight: Skip the bourbon and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract — you’ll still get that warming depth of flavor.
Why This Drink Is Perfect for the Holidays
A hot apple cider toddy captures everything the holidays represent — warmth, connection, and comfort. The fragrance of simmering cider and cinnamon instantly sets a festive tone. It’s the kind of drink that invites people to slow down, gather around, and share a laugh or two.
Whether you’re serving it as a welcome cocktail, sipping it while decorating the tree, or bringing it to a holiday dinner, it’s guaranteed to spark cozy conversation and happy memories.
And the best part? You don’t have to be a professional mixologist to make it. This apple cider hot toddy recipe is simple, forgiving, and endlessly adaptable — just like your favorite winter traditions.
A Warm Toast to Togetherness
As the season of gratitude, love, and celebration unfolds, take a moment to savor life’s simple pleasures — a comforting drink, good food, and great company. The Apple Cider Hot Toddy isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a reminder to slow down, share stories, and enjoy the warmth of togetherness.
So the next time you find yourself wondering how to make a hot apple cider toddy for your guests, remember: it’s not about perfection — it’s about creating moments that feel good, taste amazing, and linger long after the mugs are empty.
Cheers to cozy nights, full hearts, and the perfect apple cider hot toddy that makes your holidays truly magical!
Ready to make your own?
Try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and let the aroma of warm cider and cinnamon fill your home this season.
Happy Holidays from Regency Cafe!
