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This Apple Cider Hot Toddy is a simple, easy to make warm cocktail that features a Fall spin on a classic.

If you are interested in trying more autumn cocktail recipes, try one of these Apple Cider Cocktails, these Fall Mimosas or these Fall Margaritas.
For more fall cocktails that feature bourbon, try one of these Fall Bourbon Cocktails.
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Recipe Highlights
- Warm Fall Cocktail — This is a fall version of a classic hot toddy. Made with warm apple cider, maple syrup and cinnamon, this is a cozy fall cocktail you can enjoy all season long.
- Easy to Make a Big Batch — This is a really simple recipe to make. It takes just a few minutes to make and can easily be scaled up to make a big batch without taking any more time.
- Apple Cider Cocktail Recipe — If you enjoy apple cider and apple cider cocktails, take advantage of apple cider season to enjoy this fall flavored beverage.
Ingredients & Substitutions

- Apple Cider: For the freshest flavor, use homemade apple cider. However, store bought apple cider also works if you are looking to save time. This recipe uses non alcoholic, sweet apple cider, which is not the same as “hard” apple cider.
- Bourbon or Whiskey: You can use bourbon or whiskey, whichever you prefer. As a substitution, you can use Fireball or spiced rum.
- Lemon: A dash of fresh lemon juice brightens the overall flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Normally, hot toddies are made with honey, but this version is made with maple syrup instead to make it more fall themed.
- Cinnamon Stick: A cinnamon stick helps infuse even more fall flavor.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Heat the apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup and cinnamon stick together on a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer and continue to simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Remove the pan from the heat and pour into your mug. Add in the bourbon and stir. Add any garnish and serve immediately.

Expert Tips
- Use a mug with a handle. Since this cocktail is served warm, using a mug with a handle will prevent the cup from burning your hand.
- Use insulated tumblers. If you are sipping this hot toddy around a fire on a cold evening, try using insulated tumblers to keep your drink warm for longer.
- Adjust the alcohol. Hot toddies are traditionally strong drinks and if you don’t like bourbon, you probably won’t like this cocktail. Either reduce the amount of whiskey, use another type of alcohol you like, or leave it out altogether.
Recipe FAQs
Yes. You can make a non alcoholic version of this recipe by leaving out the bourbon or whiskey.
Possibly not. This is a stronger cocktail than others, and you do taste the bourbon. So if you don’t like bourbon or whiskey, reduce the amount, replace it with another type of alcohol, or leave it out entirely.

📖 Recipe
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Apple Cider Hot Toddy is a simple, easy to make warm cocktail that features a Fall spin on a classic.
Ingredients
- 6 oz apple cider
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 ½ oz bourbon or whiskey
Instructions
- Add the apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup and cinnamon stick together in a small saucepan. Heat on medium-high, bringing to a gentle simmer. Continue to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the hot toddy from the stove and pour it into your cocktail glass. Add in the bourbon and stir. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of alcohol. Hot toddies are traditionally strong drinks. If you don’t like bourbon, use another type of alcohol, such as spiced rum, or leave it out entirely.
- Use cocktail glasses with handles. Warm cocktails should be served in cocktail glasses with handles so you can pick up your drink comfortably without burning your hand.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Cocktail Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 15.9g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17.5g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg






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