A Hot Toddy for the Holiday Soul

Dec 4

for When You Want to Impress Without Actually Doing Much

Featuring Bulleit Bourbon, cozy spices, and my friend Will’s life-changing lemon-ginger syrup.

As the holiday season rolls in, so do cold nights, the inevitable cold season, and a calendar full of gatherings, dinners, and events. And with all of that comes the moment someone says, “Just bring anything!” — which is great, unless you have debilitating decision paralysis, cooking isn’t really your love language, or you simply don’t have the time.

Enter: my go-to Hot Toddy. It’s easy, it’s comforting, and it makes you look like the thoughtful guest who comes prepared with something warm, delicious, and a little special.

But let’s talk about the real star here: the lemon-ginger syrup. This brilliant addition came from my friend Will, honorary sous-chef, flavor enthusiast, and the one who casually suggested, “What if we added this?”, referring to his homemade lemon-ginger simple syrup. I didn’t know it then, but that suggestion changed my hot toddy experience forever. Truly, I can’t imagine making one without it now.

I first served these at Friendsgiving, and they were an instant hit, especially served alongside my roommate Liv’s banana muffins at the end of the night. They were cozy, balanced, and perfect for slow sipping; they double as a great nightcap and can even help soothe a cold thanks to the ginger and honey. A warm, delicious drink with benefits.

Cold evenings call for hot toddies, so let’s make one!

Ingredients:

1.5 - 2 oz Bourbon (dealer’s choice)
Hot water
Honey
Fresh lemon juice
Cinnamon stick
Homemade lemon-ginger syrup (created by my friend Will, and now you, and now a permanent part of my recipe)
- Equal parts fresh lemon juice, ginger, hot water, and a bit of sugar

How to Make It:

Heat your water until it reaches your desired temperature.
In your favorite mug, combine Bulleit Bourbon, honey, and a generous splash of lemon-ginger syrup.
Top with hot water and stir until everything blends together.
Add a cinnamon stick and a strip of lemon zest (or your garnish of choice) for warmth and aroma.
Sip and enjoy in good company!

A drink for Every Holiday Moment

It’s simple, fast, and tastes like a warm blanket.
It feels thoughtful without requiring much prep.
Ginger and honey make it soothing — a quiet helper during the cold season.
It’s equally perfect for gatherings, quiet nights in, or a post-dinner wind-down.

Once you’ve tried this version with a lemon-ginger twist, it’s hard to go back to anything else.

Cold evenings call for hot toddies, and this one is my forever favorite. Cheers!