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Bourbon Apple Hot Toddy 1

Bourbon Apple Hot Toddy

When autumn arrives and temperatures drop, nothing satisfies quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of this aromatic Bourbon Apple Hot Toddy. The combination of spiced apple cider, smooth bourbon, and a touch of honey creates a perfectly balanced drink that's ideal for cool evenings, holiday gatherings, or simply unwinding after a long day.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Beverage
Cuisine American
Servings 1 drink
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Small Saucepan
  • Mug

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz apple cider preferably unfiltered for a richer flavor
  • 2 oz bourbon Maker's Mark or Buffalo Trace work beautifully
  • 1 tbsp honey local wildflower honey adds unique floral notes
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 1 star anise pod
  • 1 thin apple slice for garnish
  • 1 lemon twist for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Gather your cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise. For enhanced flavor extraction, lightly crush the cinnamon stick by pressing it with the flat side of a knife – this releases more of its essential oils.
  • Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and add your spices. Heat over medium-low heat until it begins to steam, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid boiling, as this can make the cider taste bitter.
  • While the cider warms, prepare your serving mug by rinsing it with hot water. This pre-warming step prevents temperature shock when you add the hot liquid, helping your toddy stay warmer longer.
  • Remove the cider from heat and stir in the honey and fresh lemon juice until completely dissolved. For a smoother incorporation, warm your honey slightly if it's crystallized.
  • Add the bourbon to your warmed mug, then pour in the hot spiced cider mixture. Adding the bourbon after heating preserves its complex flavor notes and alcohol content.
  • Garnish with a fresh apple slice and lemon twist. For an extra special touch, quickly run the flame of a match or lighter around the edge of the lemon twist to release its essential oils before adding it to the drink. Serve immediately while hot, preferably with a cinnamon stick as a stirrer.

Notes

For a lower sugar version, reduce honey to 1-2 teaspoons and use half apple cider, half hot water.
For an alcohol-free option, replace bourbon with 2 oz of strong brewed black tea and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
For a lower calorie choice, use a sugar-free apple cider and reduce honey to 1 teaspoon.
Add a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger when heating the cider for an immune-supporting boost.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 0.2gFat: 0.3gSugar: 23g
Keyword Hot Toddy, Bourbon, Apple Cider, Winter Cocktail, Fall Drink
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