Hot Gin Toddy Recipe

Hot Toddy

1. 1

   Warm the glass

   Preheat a heatproof mug or tumbler by filling it with hot tap water. Let sit 1 minute, then discard the water and pat the glass dry. Warming the glass helps keep the drink hot longer.

2. 2

   Prepare aromatics

   Push the whole cloves into the lemon slice (this helps them infuse and makes them easy to remove). If using star anise, have it ready. Break the cinnamon stick in half if desired to better release aroma.

3. 3

   Combine honey and lemon

   Add the honey and fresh lemon juice to the warmed mug. This concentrates flavors against the glass before adding liquid.

4. 4

   Add gin

   Pour 2 oz gin into the mug over the honey and lemon. Gin's botanicals will complement the citrus and warm spices.

5. 5

   Add hot water

   Pour 6 oz (about 3/4 cup) freshly boiled water into the mug. Stir vigorously for 10–15 seconds to dissolve the honey completely and to mix the gin, lemon, and honey evenly.

6. 6

   Add spices and steep

   Drop in the lemon slice studded with cloves and the cinnamon stick (and star anise if using). Let the drink steep for 2–3 minutes so the spices infuse without becoming overpowering.

7. 7

   Final adjustments

   Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity: add up to 1 tsp more honey if you prefer sweeter, or a few drops more lemon juice if you prefer brighter acidity. If you want a touch of warm spice, grate a small pinch (about 1/8–1/4 tsp) of fresh nutmeg over the top.

8. 8

   Garnish and serve

   Garnish with a lemon twist or the steeped lemon slice. Serve immediately while hot. Provide a small spoon so the guest can remove the cloves and cinnamon stick if they wish.