By Akshara
February 19, 2026
The hot toddy is often associated with British colonial drinking culture and winter taverns, where warm spirits were mixed with citrus and sweetness to soften their edge. Over time, it became a staple winter cocktail across Europe and North America. The drink is simple but relies on proportion and heat balance. Too much lemon makes it sharp, too much honey makes it heavy. When done properly, it is warming, aromatic and smooth.
45 ml whisky (preferably Scotch or Irish) 1 tbsp honey 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 120 ml freshly boiled hot water 1 cinnamon stick 2 whole cloves 1 thin lemon slice
Warm a heatproof mug with hot water, then discard the water.
Add whisky, honey and lemon juice to the mug. Pour in hot water and stir until the honey dissolves fully.
Drop in cinnamon and cloves and let sit for 1–2 minutes.
Garnish with lemon slice and serve immediately while hot.