Hot Toddy Tea Recipe (Perfect For A Cold)
Cold winter nights and seasonal sniffles call for a warm, soothing remedy, and what could be better than a steaming mug of hot toddy tea? This classic cocktail, crafted with simple ingredients like chai tea, lemon juice, honey, and whisky, not only warms you up but also offers a touch of comfort when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s the perfect blend of warmth and wellness, ideal for those chilly evenings or when you’re battling cold and flu symptoms.
I’ve tried countless remedies for those annoying cold symptoms, but this hot toddy tea recipe always makes me feel better! The spiced notes of chai not only offer a delightful warmth but also a gentle caffeine boost, echoing my favorite over-the-counter cold medicine. The zest of lemon adds an extra kick and vitamin C, making it a great drink any time, but especially soothing during flu season. And of course, the whiskey just takes the edge off of things a little. Whether it’s early morning (maybe skip the whiskey here!) or late at night, hot toddies are a cozy companion to help ease a sore throat and warm you up from the inside out.
Why you will love brewing this hot tea
- Soothing Comfort: The warm cinnamon and spiced chai soothe your throat and lift your spirits.
- Easy to Make: Just a few ingredients and a couple of minutes are all you need to whip up this comforting hot drink.
- Health Benefits: Ingredients like lemon and honey offer vitamin C and soothing properties, ideal for cold and flu season.
- Versatile: Enjoy it with whiskey for a classic touch or skip the alcohol for a cozy, family-friendly version.
- Perfect for Any Time: Whether it’s a cold morning or a chilly night, this hot toddy tea fits perfectly.
Key ingredients and substitutions
- Chai Tea Bag: The base of our toddy, chai brings warm, spicy flavors that are comforting and invigorating. If chai isn’t your cup of tea, feel free to use plain black tea or green tea for a different flavor. If it’s the evening and you’re avoiding caffeine, you can opt for decaf chai, or a bag of ginger, mint, or chamomile tea.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh zing and a good dose of vitamin C. If fresh lemons aren’t available, try a splash of bottled lemon juice, lime juice, or orange juice.
- Honey: Sweetens the deal and soothes the throat. Maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes if you’re out of honey.
- Whisky: Gives that classic hot toddy warmth. Scottish or Irish whiskey is preferred, and bourbon or rum is also good. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit it or add a table spoon of apple cider vinegar, or a few drops of rum extract for flavor without the booze.
How to make hot toddy tea
- Boil Water: Start by boiling your water using a kettle, either electric or on the stovetop. A pot on the stove works just as well if that’s what you have handy.
- Steep the Tea: Place the chai tea bag in your favorite mug. Pour the boiling water over it and let it steep for 3-5 minutes to unlock all those spicy flavors.
- Add the Good Stuff: Stir in the honey and fresh lemon juice. These add sweetness and a tangy punch that can really kick those cold symptoms to the curb.
- Pour in the Whisky: Add a shot of whisky for that traditional hot toddy experience, and stir well. This step is optional but highly recommended for the full effect!
- Adjust to Taste: Taste your toddy and adjust the honey or lemon juice if needed. Making it perfect for your taste buds is key to enjoying it the most.
- Enjoy: Sip slowly and let the warm, soothing flavors work their magic on your sore throat and spirits.
Recipe notes and tips
- Steeping Time: Don’t over-steep your chai; it can get a bit too spicy. Stick to the 3-5 minute mark for the best balance of flavors.
- Warmth is Key: Serve the hot toddy tea while it’s hot to enjoy its soothing effects and to feel that cozy warmth spread.
- Customize Your Cup: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey and lemon to match your taste preferences and desired sweetness or tartness.
- For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a cinnamon stick or a star anise to the brew for that extra hint of spice and seasonal flair.
Variations
- Spice It Up: Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or a few whole cloves during the steeping process for an extra layer of spice.
- Herbal: Swap out the chai for your favorite herbal tea like ginger tea or even a peppermint tea for a different kind of soothing effect.
- Fruity Notes: A slice of fresh orange or a splash of apple cider can bring a sweet and fruity variation that’s delightful on a cold day.
- Decaf: Use decaffeinated chai tea if you’re sensitive to caffeine but still want the cozy, spicy flavors of a classic hot toddy.
Storage instructions
- Refrigerate: If you have leftover hot toddy tea, let it cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat your toddy gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just make sure it gets nice and hot, but don’t let it boil.
- Revive the Flavors: Before reheating, consider adding a fresh splash of lemon juice or a new tea bag to refresh the flavors, especially if it’s been sitting for a day or two.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests. Keep it warm in a slow cooker or a large pot on low heat for party-goers to serve themselves.
For a kid-friendly version, simply omit the whisky. The warm tea with honey and lemon is soothing and perfectly safe for children, although you may also want to opt for a decaf tea.
Yes, feel free to use any dark liquor you like. Rye whiskey, spiced rum, or even dark rum can add interesting flavors to your hot toddy.
Certainly! If you’re vegan or prefer not to use honey, maple syrup or agave syrup are excellent substitutes that still add a lovely sweetness.
More recipes you will love
- Ginger Mint Tea
- Chai Tea Concentrate
- Chai Concentrate from Tea Bags
- Ginger Powder Tea
- Sumac Tea (tastes like lemon)
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Hot Toddy Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 250-450 ml boiling water depending on your mug size
- 1 chai tea bag regular or decaf, or use green tea, ginger tea or mint tea
- 3 teaspoons lemon juice add more to taste
- 3 teaspoons honey add more to taste
- 1.5 oz whisky a shot
Instructions
- Boil the water using a kettle (electric or stovetop). A pot on the stove works too.250-450 ml boiling water
- Add the tea bag to your mug and pour boiling water over it. Steep for 3-5 minutes.1 chai tea bag
- Add the honey, lemon juice, and whisky and stir well.3 teaspoons lemon juice, 3 teaspoons honey, 1.5 oz whisky
- Taste and adjust the lemon and honey as needed.
- Sip and feel better!
Notes
- Steeping Time: Don’t over-steep your chai; it can get a bit too spicy. Stick to the 3-5 minute mark for the best balance of flavors.
- Warmth is Key: Serve the hot toddy tea while it’s hot to enjoy its soothing effects and to feel that cozy warmth spread.
- Customize Your Cup: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey and lemon to match your taste preferences and desired sweetness or tartness.
- For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a cinnamon stick or a star anise to the brew for that extra hint of spice and seasonal flair.
Storage instructions
- Refrigerate: If you have leftover hot toddy tea, let it cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat your toddy gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just make sure it gets nice and hot, but don’t let it boil.
- Revive the Flavors: Before reheating, consider adding a fresh splash of lemon juice or a new tea bag to refresh the flavors, especially if it’s been sitting for a day or two.