How to Make Hot Toddy Moonshine

When the weather turns chilly and you’re looking for a drink that warms you from the inside out, a Hot Toddy is the perfect choice.

But what if you could take that comforting, spiced drink and give it a little extra kick?

Enter Hot Toddy Moonshine—a deliciously boozy twist on the classic winter warmer. Ready to cozy up with your own homemade batch? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Before we dive in, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:

• High-proof alcohol (Everclear or vodka): This forms the base of your moonshine.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and balances the strong alcohol.
• Lemon juice: Provides a tangy, refreshing citrus flavor.
• Cinnamon sticks: For that warm, spicy note.
• Cloves: Adds depth and a slightly peppery spice.
• Ginger (fresh or powdered): Brings warmth and a bit of zing.
• Water: To make the honey syrup and dilute the alcohol.
• Tea (optional): A strong black tea like Earl Grey or English Breakfast can be added for a deeper flavor.
• Fresh lemon slices (optional): For garnish.

Necessary Equipment

Got your ingredients? Great! Here’s the equipment you’ll need:

• Large saucepan: For making the honey syrup and mixing ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend everything smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key!
• Mason jars or glass bottles: For storing your moonshine.
• Funnel: To make pouring into jars easier.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Making the Honey Syrup

Start by creating a simple honey syrup. In a large saucepan, combine equal parts honey and water.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the honey is fully dissolved. This syrup will serve as the sweet, flavorful base for your Hot Toddy Moonshine.

Step 2: Adding Spices and Lemon

Once your honey syrup is ready, it’s time to add the spices. Drop in the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ginger.

Let the mixture simmer on low for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse their warmth and depth into the syrup.

After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. The lemon adds a refreshing tang that balances the sweetness of the honey.

Step 3: Incorporating the Alcohol

Once your spiced honey syrup has cooled to room temperature, it’s time to add the alcohol. Slowly pour in the high-proof alcohol, whisking continuously to ensure it blends smoothly with the syrup.

The alcohol will infuse with the rich, spiced flavors, creating a moonshine that’s both warming and invigorating.

Step 4: Optional Tea Infusion

For a more complex flavor, you can steep a strong cup of black tea and add it to your moonshine mixture.

This step is optional, but it adds a rich, tannic note that pairs beautifully with the honey and spices. If you choose to add tea, make sure it’s fully cooled before mixing it with the alcohol.

Bottling and Storing

Step 5: Bottling Your Moonshine

Now that your Hot Toddy Moonshine is ready, it’s time to bottle it up. Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into mason jars or glass bottles.

Be sure to leave a little space at the top of each jar to allow for any expansion during storage. It’s like bottling up a warm, comforting hug!

Step 6: Storing and Letting It Sit

Seal your jars or bottles tightly and store them in the refrigerator. For best results, let your moonshine sit for at least 24 hours before serving.

This allows the flavors to meld together into a smooth, harmonious blend. Think of it like letting a good stew simmer—the longer it sits, the better it gets.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoying Hot or on the Rocks

Your Hot Toddy Moonshine is ready to enjoy! You can sip it straight from the jar, warm it up for a traditional hot toddy experience, or serve it over ice for a refreshing twist.

The warm, spiced flavor makes it a perfect drink for cozying up on a cold evening.

Creative Cocktail Ideas

If you’re in the mood to get creative, here are a few cocktail ideas:

• Spiced Hot Toddy: Warm up your moonshine in a mug, and add a splash of boiling water or hot tea. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a lemon slice.
• Hot Toddy Mule: Mix your moonshine with ginger beer and a splash of lime juice for a spicy, tangy drink served over ice.
• Hot Toddy Sour: Shake your moonshine with fresh lemon juice, a dash of bitters, and ice. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Presentation Tips

When serving your Hot Toddy Moonshine, presentation is key. Consider garnishing your drinks with a cinnamon stick, a slice of lemon, or even a few whole cloves for a festive touch.

If you’re gifting your moonshine, tie a ribbon around the jar and add a personalized label for a thoughtful, homemade gift.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your very own Hot Toddy Moonshine! This recipe is a delicious way to capture the warmth and comfort of a classic hot toddy in a boozy, homemade drink.

Whether you’re sipping it straight, mixing it into cocktails, or sharing it with friends, it’s sure to be a hit.

Remember to always enjoy responsibly and store your moonshine in a cool, dark place to keep it fresh.

Cheers to your cozy creation!