Hot Gin Toddy Recipe

Preparing the Hot Gin Toddy

1. 1

   Warm the mug

   Preheat a heatproof mug or toddy glass by filling it with boiling water. Let sit 30–60 seconds, then discard the water. Warming the glass prevents the drink from cooling too quickly.

2. 2

   Bloom the spices (optional)

   Place the cinnamon stick and whole cloves (and star anise, if using) in the warmed mug. Pour 2 ounces of the hot water over them and let steep 1–2 minutes to release aromatics.

3. 3

   Combine honey and lemon

   Add the honey and fresh lemon juice to the mug with the steeped spices. Stir vigorously until the honey is fully dissolved into the warm liquid. If using the optional grated nutmeg, reserve it for garnish.

4. 4

   Add gin and finish

   Pour the gin into the mug, then add the remaining hot water (about 4 fl oz) and stir gently to combine. Taste and add additional honey or a teaspoon of simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter toddy.

5. 5

   Garnish and serve

   Garnish with a lemon wheel or a twist threaded with the cloves (or floated) and the cinnamon stick. If using, grate a little nutmeg over the top. Serve immediately while hot.