There’s nothing quite like a cozy mug of a hot toddy to warm you up on a chilly evening, and this Meyer Lemon version is extra special.
The sweet, citrusy flavor of Meyer lemons adds a soft, floral brightness to the classic cocktail.
It’s soothing for a sore throat, a cold-weather pick-me-up, or just the perfect drink to sip while curled up on the couch.
Plus, it’s quick to make and totally customizable, which makes it a go-to for me when I want something comforting in minutes. Let’s get into it!
What You’ll Need
- 1 Meyer lemon (juiced, plus a slice for garnish)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey (adjust for sweetness)
- 1–2 ounces whiskey (bourbon works great!)
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cinnamon stick (for stirring)
- Optional: a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth
Pro Tips
- Warm your mug first: Fill your mug with hot water, let it sit for a minute, and then dump it out before making the toddy. It keeps your drink hot longer!
- Adjust the sweetness: Start with 1 tablespoon of honey, then add more if you like it sweeter.
- Freshly squeezed is key: Meyer lemon juice is sweeter and less tangy than regular lemons, so it balances perfectly. Don’t skip the fresh juice!
- Add some sparkle: For a fun twist, replace half the water with hot, unsweetened apple cider or even a splash of sparkling water for fizz.
- Skip the booze: If you’re serving kids or prefer no alcohol, leave out the whiskey—it’s just as cozy and delicious!
Tools You’ll Need
- Mug
- Small saucepan or kettle
- Citrus juicer (optional, but helpful!)
- Spoon for stirring
Substitutions and Variations
- No Meyer lemons? Use regular lemons, but add a tiny bit more honey to balance the tartness.
- Whiskey swap: Try rum, brandy, or even a good tequila for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a slice of fresh ginger or star anise for extra depth.
Instructions
1. Heat the water
Bring 1 cup of water to a simmer in a kettle or small saucepan.
2. Juice the lemon
While the water heats, juice the Meyer lemon into your mug, removing any seeds.
3. Add the honey and whiskey.
Stir in the honey and whiskey until the honey is fully dissolved.
4. Pour in the hot water
Slowly pour the steaming water into the mug, filling it almost to the top.
5. Garnish and enjoy.
Stir the drink with a cinnamon stick, garnish with a lemon slice, and enjoy immediately.
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
Hot toddies are meant to be made fresh, but you can prep the lemon juice and honey mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, then just add hot water and whiskey when ready to serve.
Wrap-Up
This Meyer Lemon Hot Toddy is one of the easiest ways to bring some cozy vibes to your day, whether you’re warming up after a long walk or looking for a soothing drink before bed. Let me know how it turned out for you in the comments—did you put your own spin on it? I’d love to hear!
