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Hot Zaddy (Apple Cider Hot Toddy)

Call it Apple Cider Hot Toddy if you’re formal, but around here, it answers to Hot Zaddy. With a swaggering mix of whiskey, apple cider, honey, and citrus, capped with a cinnamon stick, it’s a stylish and cozy remix on one of my favorite warm cocktails.

This year, I’m excited to take part in Eat The Culture’s 2023 Holiday Roundup. Holidays often revolve around communal moments – sharing stories, laughter, and, of course, food. This year’s roundup is all about those delightful ‘lite bites’ and drinks that set the tone for festive gatherings.


I had the pleasure of partnering with my friend Jen of Sim’s Home Kitchen who prepared a deliciously Easy & Moist Ginger Cake. This dessert pairs perfectly with my hot zaddy recipe for a cozy holiday bite and sip. Learn more about Eat the Culture and find a complete list of recipes from all participants here.

Share these recipes with your friends and loved ones and follow each participant by using the hashtags #HolidayswithETC & #PerfectPartyPairings on Instagram.


Listen, y’all, the calendar’s flipped to cozy season, and I’ve got the tea—or should I say toddy?—that’s going to change the game. Picture this: a steamy, cinnamon-kissed concoction that’s like a cashmere sweater for your soul, and it’s called Hot Zaddy. Yeah, you heard that right. Not just any old hot toddy, but the kind that makes you say, “Zamn, Zaddy!” It’s giving everything you need to melt away the winter blues: warmth from the inside out, a touch of bourbon boldness, and that sweet apple cider cuddle. Obsessed just ain’t the word, boo.

View of pouring warm apple cider from a copper tea kettle into a glass mug. With surrounding ingredients in the background honey, lemons, apples, whiskey.

This drink is like that one friend who’s always got the hot goss; you can’t help but lean in every single time they spill. When you take that first sip of Hot Zaddy, it’s like the city’s hustle fades out, and it’s just you and that “We go together” feeling with every mouthful of this apple-spiced, honey-drizzled heaven. It’s not just a cocktail, it’s a vibe, and it’s about to be your favorite plus one all season long.

BaaaaBy, grab your mugs because we’re about to stir up some serious cozy. It’s time to spin the block on that same old winter routine and heat things up with a toddy that’s not just hot—it’s Hot Zaddy hot.

ingredients for apple cider hot toddy

What You’ll Need For This Recipe:

Get ready to whip up the hottest toddy on the block, honey! Here’s what you’ll need to make your very own Hot Zaddy (Apple Cider Hot Toddy) that’ll have your friends texting, “Girl, send me that recipe!” faster than you can say “cheers!”

  • Apple Cider: 1 whole cup of this sweet, tangy nectar. We’re talking the good stuff—fresh and full-bodied, just like a Zaddy should be.
  • Bourbon: 2 ounces to give us that little bit of heat and a whole lot of “hello!” If bourbon’s not your jam, any dark spirit will have this toddy flexing.
  • Honey: A whole tablespoon because life is short, and your toddy needs to be sweet. It’s the liquid gold that’s about to tie all these flavors together.
  • Cinnamon Stick: One stick of this spicy superstar because what’s a toddy without a little kick? It’s the secret handshake of winter spices, babe.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh off the press, we need that zest and zing to cut through and brighten things up. About a tablespoon should do the trick.
  • Apple Slices: For garnishing and getting those ‘Gram-worthy looks. Slice ’em thin and fan ’em out like you’re dealing the hottest hand of poker.
  • Lemon Slices: Also for garnish because we’re all about those details. It’s like accessorizing but for your drink.

How To Make Your Hot Zaddy (Apple Cider Hot Toddy):

Pour equal parts hot apple cider, whiskey, honey, and lemon juice into two mugs, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved. Grate a touch of fresh cinnamon over each, drop in a cinnamon stick for spice, and garnish with apple and lemon slices. Serve up this cozy concoction straight away and enjoy the warmth.

Angled View of Hot Zaddy - a warm cocktail with apple cider, lemon juice, cinnamon, honey, bourbon and fresh slices of apples and lemons.

Serving Tips for Your Hot Zaddy Soiree:

When it’s time to turn up and serve this Hot Zaddy at your next gathering, I’ve got the scoop on how to keep it looking as good whether you’re flying solo or rolling deep:

For That Solo Slay:

  • Stick to the script for a solo act – the recipe card below is your setlist.
  • Dress it up! Garnish with a cinnamon stick, an apple slice, and a twist of lemon because even when it’s just you, we keep it fancy.

Scale It up for a Party:

  • When it’s time to feed the squad, just multiply. Warm up a vat of that apple cider on the stove, but keep it low and slow – we want it warm, not wearing a bikini.
  • Spike the cider with whiskey to taste (and remember, honey, we’re here for a good time, not a long time).
  • Set up a garnish station with cinnamon sticks, apple slices, and lemon twists. It’s like a glam squad for your toddy.
  • Keep that pot on a gentle heat, have a ladle ready for serving, and let your guests feel like they’re at that fancy ski lodge with the open bar.
  • Play bartender chic and offer the bourbon on the side, letting your friends decide how naughty or nice they wanna be with their toddy.
Aerial View of Hot Zaddy Cocktail - looking into glass mug with cinnamon stick, slices of apple and lemon. With crumbled cinnamon stick at the base of the mug.

Storage & Reheating Recommendations:

Got leftovers, or planning ahead? No worries, your Hot Zaddy can still keep it fresh for the next cozy encounter. Here’s how to store that liquid love so it’s just as fabulous on the reheat:

  • Make Ahead & Store: Once your toddy has cooled down to room temp, tuck it into the fridge in a snug, airtight container. It’s like putting it in the coziest puffer jacket – it’ll stay good for a solid 2-3 days.
  • Reheat, But Keep It Cute: When you’re ready for round two with your toddy, warm it up on the stove or in the Crockpot. But remember, honey, no boiling – we’re not trying to cook it.
  • Remove the Extras: If you’ve got slices of orange or a posse of whole spices in there, fish them out before you store it. They’ve done their part, but leave ’em in, and they might start to throw shade, turning your sweet concoction a touch bitter.
Meiko drinking a glass mug of the the hot zaddy cocktail with an apple garnish. She is inside of a well lit kitchen.

Recipe Variations & Customizations:

Here’s how to put your own spin on the classic Hot Zaddy and make it your signature sip:

  • Boozy Boost: If bourbon isn’t your bae, switch it up with some dark rum for a caramel note or a spiced rum to really kick up those cozy vibes.
  • Sweetener Swap: Not about that honey life? Maple syrup can slide right in and keep things just as sweet – it’s like choosing between two equally fabulous pairs of heels.
  • Herbal Notes: Thyme or rosemary aren’t just for your roast, darling. A sprig can infuse an earthy, piney aroma that transforms each sip into a woodland escapade.
  • The Not-Toddy Twist: Who says you need the booze to schmooze? Skip the bourbon and you’ve got yourself a Not-Toddy, a kid-friendly, teetotaler-pleasing concoction that’s still packed with all the spiced-up, cozy-as-a-blanket feels. It’s like the mocktail version of your fave cashmere sweater – all the comfort, none of the buzz.

More Warm Cocktails To Love

Aerial View of Hot Zaddy - a warm cocktail in a glass mug with slices of lemons, apples and a cinnamon stick. With crumbled cinnamon sticks garnished around.

Frequently Asked Questions

What in the world is a zaddy?

Think of a zaddy as that fine-looking man with the kind of classic style and warmth that just fills the room. He’s got that swagger that makes you feel all cozy inside, just like this drink. That’s why this ain’t just any Hot Toddy—it’s the Hot Zaddy. It’s got the looks, the heat, and the smooth talk all in one sip.

And what’s this Hot Toddy thing?

A Hot Toddy, honey, is like the cozy sweater of cocktails. It’s a warm blend of liquor (whiskey’s the OG), herbs, spices, and honey.

Can a Hot Toddy really kick a cold?

Look, I’m not playin’ doctor on the internet, but let’s just say a Hot Toddy has a rep for making you feel a tad better when you’re feelin’ under the weather. The whiskey warms you right up, honey soothes that scratchy throat, and lemon packs in the vitamin C.

But, does the whiskey in a Hot Toddy actually help when I’m sick?

Alright, I gotta keep it real with y’all – the whiskey part is a bit of a gray area. Some folks swear by it for a little relief, sayin’ it helps you relax and could clear up the sniffles. But for real medical advice? Hit up your doc.

What kind of spirit should I pour into my apple cider hot toddy?

Honey, grab that good whiskey – a Bulleit Rye or Wiser’s gets the job done. But if you’re feelin’ a little rebellious, dark rum or brandy can step in and spice things up.

Now It’s Your Turn

Now you’ve got the 411 on this Hot Zaddy (Apple Cider Hot Toddy) – that warm, swagged-out drink that’s like the best fall fling you’ve ever had. It’s your turn to whip up this bad boy, feel the cozy vibes, and let that cinnamon-honey goodness hug your soul. Done and loved it? Bless your girl with a star rating and spill the tea in the comments. And ooh, when you flex that Hot Zaddy on the ‘Gram or any socials, tag @meikoandthedish ’cause you best believe I’m all about cheering on your mixology skills.

Hot Zaddy (Apple Cider Toddy)

The Apple Cider Hot Toddy might be its Sunday name, but when it slips into something more comfortable, it goes by Hot Zaddy. It's the stylishly warm cocktail with that swagger—whiskey, apple cider, honey, citrus, and a cinnamon stick strut. Perfect for those of us who crave the cozy heat with an edge of suave. This Zaddy's got the moves to keep you warm all through the crisp fall nights.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 262kcal
Author: Meiko Temple

Ingredients

  • 1 cup hot apple cider divided
  • 4 oz bourbon or whiskey divided
  • 2 tablespoon honey divided
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice divided
  • 2 cinnamon sticks

Garnish

  • 1 slice apple I used Fiji
  • 1 slice lemon

Instructions

  • Divide hot apple cider, whiskey, honey and lemon juice into two mugs and stir until honey is dissolved. Grate a pinch of fresh cinnamon over the top then add the cinnamon stick to the beverage.
  • Garnish with fresh apple and lemon slices and serve immediately.
Tried this recipe?Mention @MeikoAndTheDish or tag #MeikoAndTheDish

Nutrition

Serving: 2g | Calories: 262kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.05g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 158mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 29g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 1mg

*Nutrition information is a rough estimate.

**The equipment section above contains affiliate links to products I use and love. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Meet Meiko

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Welcome! I’m Meiko, a Dallas-based food blogger who loves to share life and culture through food. There are no strangers around these parts only good eats. Let’s get to know each other better!

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