Maple Hot Toddy Recipe: Whiskey, Lemon & Warm Spices

This maple hot toddy is a soul-soothing, easy-to-make hot cocktail that’s perfect for warming up on cold winter evenings. Bright lemon and warming spices balance the smooth warmth of whisky while a touch of maple syrup adds natural sweetness and depth. It’s quick to prepare and ideal for cozy nights by the fire or casual gatherings with friends.

This maple variation on the classic hot toddy leans into rich, warm flavors. While some prefer a sweeter apple-cider version, the maple hot toddy offers a subtler sweetness that highlights the whisky and spices. It’s versatile, approachable, and ready in minutes — making it an excellent go-to for winter entertaining or a quiet night in.

The idea for a maple hot toddy started as a playful experiment while filming with friends; a small amount of leftover maple syrup turned into a delightful twist that became a new favorite. Below you’ll find the ingredients, clear instructions, substitutions, serving suggestions, and a simple large-batch scale so you can make enough for guests.

What is in this hot toddy recipe?

• Whisky
• Fresh lemon juice
• Maple syrup
• Hot water
• Lemon wedges
• Cinnamon sticks
• Star anise (star anis)

Best whisky for a hot toddy

Choose a whisky you enjoy drinking neat. For this recipe we used Rebel Yell, but any good-quality whisky or bourbon will work. The whisky provides the backbone of the drink, so pick a spirit with flavor notes you like — whether spicy, oaky, or slightly sweet.

Substitutions and variations

• Booze: Classic hot toddies are made with whisky, but bourbon or a rye whisky are equally delicious.
• Sweetener: Maple syrup gives a deep flavor, but honey or a simple syrup can be used instead for a different sweetness profile. Honey is a classic option and pairs nicely with lemon.
• Liquid: Use hot apple cider or spiced apple juice instead of plain hot water for a fruitier, more festive version.
• Spices: Add a clove or a pinch of ground nutmeg for extra warmth, or omit star anise if you prefer a simpler spice profile.

Serving suggestions

Serve the maple hot toddy in heatproof mugs or to-go cups for a fireside porch gathering. Garnish each cup with a lemon wedge and a cinnamon stick; the aroma enhances the drinking experience. Pair this drink with savory finger foods like bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, spicy meatballs, or warm dips — anything that complements the drink’s sweet-and-spicy profile.

Maple Hot Toddy — Recipe

Ingredients (serves 2)

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or more to taste)
• 3 oz (about 1.5 oz per glass) whisky
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 12 oz hot water (6 oz per glass)
• 2 lemon wedges
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 star anise

Instructions

1. Divide the maple syrup, whisky and lemon juice between two heatproof glasses or mugs (about 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup, 1.5 oz whisky, and 1/4 oz lemon juice per glass).
2. Add a lemon wedge, one cinnamon stick and one star anise to each glass.
3. Pour about 6 oz of hot (almost-boiling) water into each glass and stir gently to combine.
4. Let the toddy steep for a few minutes so the spices and lemon mellow into the drink, then enjoy while warm.

Tips & Notes

• Water temperature: Use very hot water but avoid scalding; “almost boiling” is ideal so the flavors blend without evaporating delicate aromatics.
• Adjust sweetness: Start with a tablespoon of maple syrup for two servings and adjust to taste. Honey works well as an alternative if you prefer.
• Make-ahead: For parties, prepare a large batch and keep it warm in a slow cooker on the lowest setting or in an insulated pitcher. Add spices and lemon wedges just before serving for the best aroma.
• Glassware: Use heatproof glass or ceramic mugs and a small stirring spoon. A cinnamon stick doubles as a stirrer and garnish.

Nutrition (approximate per serving)

Calories: 152 kcal; Carbohydrates: 12 g; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 0.3 g; Fiber: 3 g; Sugar: 7 g. Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.