By Akshara
August 7, 2026
A spiced hot toddy is the ultimate pick-me-up when damp monsoon weather or a dreary afternoon leaves you feeling sluggish. This classic warm cocktail combines dark rum or whisky with freshly brewed black tea, fiery ginger, citrus, and raw honey. The aromatic steam opens up your senses while the gentle warmth of whole spices and golden honey soothes the throat and lifts your spirits on rainy weekends.
45ml dark rum or whisky 1 cup freshly boiled water 1 black tea bag 1.5 tablespoons raw honey 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 3 slices fresh root ginger 2 whole cloves 1 cinnamon stick 1 lemon wheel for garnish
Place the black tea bag, ginger slices, whole cloves, and cinnamon stick into a pre-warmed heatproof glass or ceramic mug.
Pour the freshly boiled water over the tea and spices, allowing everything to steep together for four minutes to release their essential oils and flavour.
Remove the tea bag, then stir in the raw honey and fresh lemon juice until the honey dissolves completely into the aromatic infusion.
Pour in the dark rum or whisky, give the drink a final gentle stir, garnish with a fresh lemon wheel, and sip slowly while hot.