Maple Ginger Hot Toddy

The Maple Ginger Hot Toddy is a warm, comforting cocktail perfect for chilly nights. Whiskey provides a bold foundation, balanced by the natural sweetness of maple syrup. Fresh ginger adds a gentle spice, while star anise and cinnamon bring depth and warmth. A tea bag infuses soothing herbal notes, and a splash of lemon juice brightens the finish. Served steaming in a mug, this cocktail is ideal for cozy evenings, winding down after a long day, or offering as a soothing nightcap. It’s a seasonal twist on the traditional hot toddy, both aromatic and flavorful.

---

Tasting Notes

The Maple Ginger Hot Toddy is warming, spiced, and soothing, making it an ideal drink for cold evenings. Whiskey provides depth with notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla. Maple syrup adds smooth sweetness with a subtle richness that blends seamlessly with the spirit. Fresh ginger slices bring a sharp, spicy heat, while the cinnamon stick and star anise pods add aromatic warmth. A tea base rounds out the drink with gentle tannins, giving it balance. Lemon juice finishes the cocktail with a refreshing brightness that cuts through the sweetness. Served hot, it’s aromatic, flavorful, and deeply comforting.

Equipment and Glassware

Preparing the Maple Ginger Hot Toddy requires just a few simple tools. A muddler or wooden spoon is essential for pressing the ginger slices to release their oils. A kettle or pot is needed to heat water to the right temperature for steeping the tea and spices. A jigger ensures precise measurements of whiskey, syrup, and lemon juice, keeping the balance of flavors intact. A heatproof glass or sturdy mug is the best choice for serving, as it holds the warmth and enhances the presentation with visible spices. A long-handled spoon helps stir before serving.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz whiskey
• 0.5 oz maple syrup
• 0.5 oz lemon juice
• 4 slices ginger
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 tea bag
• Hot water to fill the glass

Instructions

• In a heatproof glass or mug, muddle the ginger slices to release their flavor.
• Add the cinnamon stick, star anise pods, and the tea bag to the glass.
• Pour the whiskey and maple syrup into the glass over the spices and tea.
• Pour hot water over the ingredients in the glass, filling it to your desired level.
• Let the mixture steep for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
• After steeping, add the lemon juice and give the drink a gentle stir.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your Maple Ginger Hot Toddy!

Pro Tips

• Use freshly sliced ginger for the boldest flavor.
• Choose a mild black tea for balance, or herbal tea for a softer profile.
• Do not over-steep the tea, as it can become too bitter.
• Adjust maple syrup to your desired sweetness.
• Use boiling water that has cooled slightly to avoid burning the tea.
• Pre-warm your mug with hot water before preparing to keep the drink hot longer.
• Garnish with an extra cinnamon stick or lemon wheel for added aroma.

When to Serve

The Maple Ginger Hot Toddy is perfect for chilly evenings, seasonal gatherings, or as a relaxing nightcap. Its combination of spice, warmth, and sweetness makes it an excellent choice for autumn and winter, especially around holidays. It also works well as a comforting drink when you want something soothing after a long day. Because it is both flavorful and aromatic, it pairs nicely with cozy nights indoors or can be served to guests as a festive after-dinner cocktail. This hot toddy offers a seasonal twist on a classic that feels both approachable and satisfying.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Whiskey: Maker’s Mark, Elijah Craig, or Buffalo Trace for smooth, warming depth.
• Maple Syrup: Runamok or Crown Maple for natural richness.
• Tea: English Breakfast or Earl Grey for boldness; chamomile or rooibos for a softer touch.
• Spices: Use whole cinnamon sticks and star anise for full flavor release.
• Citrus: Fresh lemon juice is essential for brightness.

Similar Cocktails

• Scarecrow Sour
• Apple Cider Manhattan
• Maple Leaf
• Apple Cider Cinnamon Whiskey
• Hot Spiced Cider Mocktail