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Cozy Spiked Apple Cider Hot Toddy

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A warm, comforting holiday cocktail that balances sweet apple cider with smooth bourbon, honey, and aromatic spices. This recipe uses a gentle heating method to bloom the spices for maximum flavor without boiling the cider.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh unfiltered apple cider
  • 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
  • 1–2 tbsp raw honey
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3–4 whole cloves
  • 2 star anise pods (optional)
  • 1 strip orange peel (no white pith)
  • 1 thin slice fresh ginger

Instructions

  1. Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, orange peel, and fresh ginger slice to the cider.
  3. Gently stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching for small bubbles around the edges. Do not let it boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low and let the spices steep (bloom) for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the spiced cider into mugs or a heat-safe pitcher, discarding the solids.
  6. While the cider is hot, stir in the honey until fully dissolved.
  7. Add the fresh lemon juice and bourbon or whiskey, stirring to combine.
  8. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness if needed.
  9. Garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or apple slice and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not boil the cider, as it will destroy delicate apple flavors and make the drink taste cooked. The ideal temperature is around 160°F (71°C). For a non-alcoholic version, omit the whiskey and add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice. Leftover spiced cider (without alcohol) can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot toddy, apple cider cocktail, winter drinks, holiday recipes, bourbon recipes, cozy drinks, spiked cider, easy cocktails

Find it online: https://shimmersnack.com/cozy-spiked-apple-cider-hot-toddy-3-easy-holiday-tips/