How to Make a Hot Toddy for a Cold

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There’s something about having a cold that makes you want to immediately cancel all plans, wrap yourself in your softest blanket, and reach for something warm to sip on. Enter: the hot toddy. This classic cozy cocktail has been a go-to cold-weather comfort for generations—and while it’s definitely not a magic cure, it does feel like a hug in a mug when you’re feeling under the weather.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make a hot toddy for a cold, you’re in the right place. This simple recipe comes together in just minutes using ingredients you probably already have at home (think lemon, honey, and hot water). Whether you add a splash of whiskey or keep it alcohol-free, a hot toddy is all about soothing your throat, warming you up from the inside out, and helping you relax when your body needs rest the most.

Ahead, I’m sharing the classic hot toddy recipe, easy variations (including a no-alcohol option), and tips for making it taste just right—because feeling sick is bad enough, and at least your drink should be comforting.

What Is a Hot Toddy?

A hot toddy is a warm, soothing drink traditionally made with hot water, honey, lemon, and whiskey. It’s one of those old-school recipes that’s been passed down forever—not because it’s fancy, but because it works as a comfort ritual when you’re feeling less than your best.

Unlike most cocktails, a hot toddy isn’t really about the alcohol. It’s about warmth, steam, and that cozy-first-sip feeling that instantly makes everything feel a little more manageable. Over the years, it’s become especially popular during cold and flu season, thanks to its simple ingredients and calming effect.

Think of it less like a cocktail and more like a wellness-adjacent beverage that just happens to be delicious.

Why a Hot Toddy Can Feel Comforting When You’re Sick

Is a hot toddy a cure for a cold? No.
Does it feel like it helps when you’re miserable and congested and just want to be comfortable? Absolutely.

Here’s why so many people swear by it:

• Warm liquids can help soothe a sore or scratchy throat and encourage hydration
• Steam from the hot mug may help loosen congestion and open nasal passages
• Honey is naturally soothing and coats the throat, which can help calm coughing
• Lemon juice adds vitamin C, acidity, and a fresh flavor that cuts through heaviness

And if you choose to include alcohol, it can help you relax and unwind—though it’s completely optional and not always recommended when you’re sick.

At the very least, making yourself a hot toddy forces you to slow down, rest, and sip something warm, which your body probably needs anyway.

Ingredients for a Classic Hot Toddy

One of the reasons the hot toddy has stood the test of time? You don’t need anything complicated or hard to find.

Here’s what goes into a classic hot toddy:

• Hot water or hot tea
  Plain hot water keeps it traditional, but herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or lemon tea add extra flavor and soothing benefits.
• Honey
  This is key. Honey balances the acidity of the lemon and helps coat your throat. Use local or raw honey if you have it, but any honey will work.
• Fresh lemon juice
  Fresh-squeezed makes a noticeable difference here. It brightens the drink and keeps it from tasting flat.
• Whiskey or bourbon (optional)
  Traditionally used, but totally optional—especially if you’re taking medication or just not in the mood.
• Optional add-ins
  Cinnamon sticks, fresh ginger slices, cloves, turmeric, or a lemon wheel if you want to elevate things slightly.

How to Make a Hot Toddy for a Cold (Step-by-Step)

This is the kind of recipe you make when you’re low on energy, maybe slightly miserable, and definitely not in the mood to measure anything precisely. Think of this as gentle guidance, not a strict formula.

Step 1: Heat Your Water or Brew Your Tea

Start by heating water or brewing your tea until it’s hot but not boiling. Super-hot water can actually be irritating when you have a sore throat, so aim for steaming—not scalding. Herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or lemon work especially well if you’re feeling sick, but plain hot water is perfectly fine too.

Step 2: Add the Honey

Add honey directly to your mug while the liquid is hot. This helps it dissolve completely and evenly. Start with about one tablespoon, then adjust to taste. If your throat is especially scratchy, a little extra honey can make the drink feel more soothing.

Step 3: Stir in Fresh Lemon Juice

Next, add freshly squeezed lemon juice. About half a lemon is a good place to start, but this is where personal preference really comes in. Lemon adds brightness and keeps the drink from tasting overly sweet, so feel free to adjust until it tastes just right.

Step 4: Add Whiskey (Optional)

If you’re including alcohol, add a small splash of whiskey or bourbon—usually about one ounce. More isn’t better here; the hot toddy is meant to be gentle and warming, not strong. If you’re skipping alcohol, simply move on to the next step.

Step 5: Add Optional Spices or Garnishes

If you want to elevate things slightly, drop in a cinnamon stick, a few slices of fresh ginger, or a pinch of cloves. These add warmth and a subtle spice that makes the drink feel extra cozy. A lemon slice on the rim is optional, but always nice.

Step 6: Stir, Sip, and Relax

Give everything one final stir, take a slow sip, and adjust as needed. Too strong? Add more hot water. Not sweet enough? Stir in a little more honey. This is a listen-to-your-body kind of recipe.

Best enjoyed curled up on the couch, wrapped in a blanket, doing absolutely nothing productive.

Hot Toddy Variations for a Cold

The beauty of a hot toddy is how customizable it is. You can adjust it based on what’s in your kitchen—or what your body feels like it needs.

Alcohol-Free Hot Toddy

Perfect for bedtime or when you’re taking cold medicine. Use hot water or herbal tea with honey and lemon for a soothing, caffeine-free option that still feels special.

Hot Toddy With Tea

Swap the water for chamomile, ginger, green tea, or lemon tea. Each adds a slightly different flavor and vibe without overpowering the drink.

Apple Cider Hot Toddy

Use hot apple cider instead of water, then add lemon, honey (if needed), and cinnamon. This one feels especially cozy and seasonal.

Ginger & Turmeric Hot Toddy

Add fresh grated ginger or a pinch of turmeric for a warming, slightly spicy version that feels extra comforting when you’re congested.

When You Should Skip Alcohol

Even though whiskey is traditional, it’s not always the best idea when you’re sick—and that’s completely okay.

You may want to skip alcohol if:

• You’re taking cold, flu, or pain medication
• You’re dehydrated or running a fever
• You’re pregnant or avoiding alcohol
• You’re drinking this right before bed

The good news? Many people actually prefer hot toddies without alcohol, especially when they’re sick. You still get the warmth, steam, and soothing ingredients—without anything extra working against your body.

Tips for the Best Hot Toddy

A few simple tips can make all the difference:

• Avoid boiling water—it can irritate your throat and dull flavors
• Always use fresh lemon juice if possible
• Start with less honey and add more as needed
• Sip slowly (this drink works best when you take your time)
• Make it your own—there’s no single “correct” version

FAQs About How to Make a Hot Toddy

Does a hot toddy help a cold?

A hot toddy isn’t a cure for the common cold, but it can feel soothing when you’re sick. The warm liquid may help calm a sore throat, the steam can ease congestion, and ingredients like honey and lemon are commonly used for comfort. Many people drink hot toddies simply because they’re relaxing and help encourage rest and hydration.

Can you drink a hot toddy when you’re sick?

Yes, many people drink hot toddies when they’re sick, but it’s important to listen to your body. If you’re staying hydrated, not taking medication that interacts with alcohol, and keeping the drink light, a hot toddy can be a comforting option. If alcohol doesn’t feel right, a non-alcoholic version works just as well.

Is a hot toddy better with or without alcohol?

A hot toddy can be enjoyed with or without alcohol, especially when you’re sick. Alcohol isn’t required for the comforting effects, and many people prefer skipping it altogether. The honey, lemon, and warm liquid are what make the drink soothing, not the whiskey.

What kind of alcohol is best for a hot toddy?

Whiskey or bourbon is most commonly used in a traditional hot toddy because it has a smooth, warming flavor. That said, the amount is usually small, and the drink should never taste strong. If you don’t enjoy whiskey, it’s perfectly fine to leave alcohol out.

Can you drink a hot toddy before bed?

You can enjoy a hot toddy before bed, but many people prefer making it alcohol-free at night. Warm, non-caffeinated versions made with herbal tea, honey, and lemon are especially relaxing and won’t interfere with sleep.

Can kids have a hot toddy?

Children should only have non-alcoholic versions of a hot toddy. A warm drink made with hot water or herbal tea, honey (for children over one year old), and lemon can feel soothing, but alcohol should always be avoided.

How often can you drink a hot toddy when sick?

A hot toddy is best enjoyed occasionally as a comfort drink rather than something you consume multiple times a day. Focus on hydration, rest, and nourishing foods, and enjoy a hot toddy when you want something warm and soothing.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lisa, Slow Living Enthusiast

Hi, I’m Lisa. I write about slow living, nervous system care, and creating calm, intentional routines for everyday life. After spending 10 years living in Europe, I learned firsthand the art of savoring moments, embracing simplicity, and letting life unfold at a more human pace. My mission is to help you soften the edges of modern life and create space for a more intentional way of living.