A toddy is a balancing act of hot water, honey, lemon, and whiskey, and the trap is boiling water that scalds off the aromatics. Heat the water hot but not boiling, dissolve the honey first, and add the whiskey last so the alcohol doesn't cook off.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep5 min
Cook5 min
Makes1 serving
CuisineAmerican
Cost$
VegetarianGluten-freeDairy-free
Make it vegan: maple syrup for the honey.
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for1servings
Our ratio, your call. The amounts below are a tested starting point — a version, not the one and only. Anything tagged to taste is the knob you turn: start there, then make it yours.
Whiskey
A decent bourbon or rye; the spirit is the backbone, so use one you'd sip.
2 ozrecommended
Local / market
Raw honey
Honey both sweetens and soothes; dissolve it in the hot water before anything else.
You can batch the mix and keep it cold, but add the ice, soda, and garnish and shake or stir to order — a made-up drink goes flat and watery if it sits.
Is Hot Toddy gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Hot Toddy vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has honey. Make it vegan: maple syrup for the honey.
Community Notes
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