Golden Milk Hot Toddy

Recently I’ve realized many people don’t know what this is, so let’s start with a WTF.

A hot toddy, or simply referred to as hot whiskey in Ireland, is exactly that: hot whiskey. It can be prepared alongside water, honey, lemon, herbs, and/or spices. It’s often served at nighttime before bed and can be a naughtier version of a cold or flu remedy.

One widely agreed-upon recipe doesn’t seem to exist; everyone I know who makes it has their own version. This one, entirely my creation, is well-loved by all who have had it, including three generations of my family. It’s more herbal and more bodacious with extra added spices and made with milk instead of water.

I’ve included an alcoholic and non-alcoholic version! Reminder that beverages are like partners: everyone has different preferences. Adjust the amounts to fit what you like best for your drinks. Maybe that means way more milk, way more whiskey, or way more maple syrup!

Golden milk spice blend: (I make this in bulk and keep it in an airtight container in my cabinet)

3 parts cinnamon

3 parts turmeric

2 parts ginger

2 parts nutmeg

1 part black pepper

Warm about 6oz of your milk of choice in the microwave or on a stovetop; I always use dairy-free oat milk. Add one tablespoon of maple syrup and one tablespoon of the golden milk spice blend to the warm milk, and use a milk frother to fully combine.

From here, choose your adventure. If I’m making this alcoholic, then I’m using Woodford Reserve. If I'm making this non-alcoholic, then I’m using Kentucky 74 which is a non-alcoholic bourbon from Spiritless. Add as much as you would like, give a gentle stir, and boom!

This drink could be served cold, but the spices tend to clump up and not distribute well — which makes it best served warm. If you really want it to be cold, then I recommend a shaker bottle with ice to break apart the spices and full incorporate the flavors

I love these on chilly nights, or nights when my insides are feeling chilly and need warming.