There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug filled with something delicious. Enter the chai hot toddy with bourbon – not just your average toddy, but a hug in a mug that promises to warm you from the inside out. Imagine blending the aromatic spices of chai with the rich, smooth notes of bourbon, all swirled together in a symphony of comfort. Stick around, and let’s dive into how to make this winter’s night delight your new favorite ritual. Post may contain affiliate links.
What is a Chai Hot Toddy?
Before we roll up our sleeves and get brewing, let’s chat about what a chai hot toddy actually is. Traditionally, a hot toddy is a warm, often whiskey-based drink mixed with honey, lemon, and spices – kind of like your best tea on its most comforting day. In a traditional hot toddy, the drink is made with hot water. But for our tweak, we will add chai tea instead.
Now, when you add “chai” to the mix, you’re inviting a blend of black tea and enchanting spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger to the party. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a global high-five from India to Scotland and every cozy-loving place in between.
In addition, chai tea is sometimes made with prepared tea bags, or by using whole spices (like cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves and ginger slices) steeped in black tea.
The chai hot toddy takes the best of both worlds, mixing the soothing warmth of a classic toddy with the vibrant spices of chai, and, of course, we can’t forget the bourbon. It’s an experience that speaks of warmth, relaxation, and a touch of adventure.
For a chai toddy, you can either use chai spices or use a chai tea bag (or bags) to create the warm base for your cocktail.
Benefits of a Chai Hot Toddy
This chai hot toddy isn’t just about tantalizing your taste buds; it’s like a warm embrace on a cold day. The spices in chai are not only delicious but they’re also packed with properties that might just help soothe that sore throat or give you a little immunity boost. While we’re not saying this is the cure-all for winter woes, it’s certainly a way to possibly ease them.
The chai hot toddy can also be used for cold symptoms, just like a traditional hot toddy. Adding a touch of honey to it will also soothe the throat.
The ritual of crafting this toddy is a moment of mindfulness in itself – a pause in the day to create something special for yourself or to share with someone you care about. So, not only does it taste amazing, but it also brings a little wellness and joy into those chilly evenings. Who knew a drink could do so much?
Ingredients Overview
First things first, you’ll need:
- Chai Tea: The spicy base of the cocktail bringing warmth and depth.
- Bourbon: Old Bardstown Bottled in Bond, Makers 46, Elijah Craig Small Batch, Woodford Reserve Bourbon, or your personal favorite, adding a smooth, rich foundation.
- Apple Cider: (not apple juice) For that sweet, autumnal twist that makes everything nicer.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Just a squeeze to cut through the sweetness and add brightness.
- Chai Simple Syrup: The sweetener that packs a punch of spice. Recipe here.
- Garnishes: Think cinnamon sticks, lemon wheels, candied ginger, dried apple slices, or even a star anise for that Instagram-worthy finish.
Each ingredient plays its part in creating a host of flavors that’s sure to warm you from the inside. Feel free to play around with the amounts to find your perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and strong!
How to Make Chai Simple Syrup
Now, onto the secret sauce – chai simple syrup. This little gem is super easy to whip up and can be used in all sorts of drinks (not just toddies). A full article is here:
- Brew a strong cup of chai tea – the stronger, the better, because we want those spices to sing.
- Mix equal parts of sugar and hot chai tea in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
- Cool and strain your syrup into a clean jar to keep in the fridge for a couple of weeks.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chai Hot Toddy with Bourbon
Alright, it’s showtime. Here’s how you put it all together:
- Warm your mug with some boiling water to keep your toddy toasty longer. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes while you gather the ingredients for the toddy.
- Combine the ingredients in the mug. See the full recipe below for amounts.
- Add 3 oz of hot chai tea and 3 oz of hot apple cider into the mix. Stir gently to marry all the flavors together.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a slice of candied ginger, and a dried apple slice for that extra flair.
There you have it – a chai hot toddy that’s a cozy blanket on a brisk evening.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
Presentation is key so serve your toddy in a clear mug to show off its beautiful color, and don’t skimp on the garnishes. They’re not just for looks; they add aroma and visual interest to the flavor experience. Plus, they make your drink photo-worthy (because if you didn’t post it, did it even happen?).
Pairings and Occasions
This chai hot toddy is perfect for just about any fall or winter occasion. Sipping one by the fire? Check. Enjoying it after a day of apple picking? Double-check. It’s also a fantastic companion for holiday gatherings or a quiet night in.
Tips for the Perfect Toddy
- Quality matters: Use a good quality bourbon and fresh spices for the best flavor. Head here for the Cocktail Contessa’s article on the best Bourbons to use for your Hot Toddy.
- Adjust to taste: Play with the ratios to find what tastes best to you. More syrup for sweetness, more lemon for sour, and play with the ratio of apple juice to chai tea. Some people prefer to use just chai tea as the hot base, and it’s a glorious combination with a complex whiskey.
- Keep it hot: Pre-warming your mug really does make a difference in keeping your toddy warm. It is vital to creating a sip-worthy toddy.
Conclusion
There you have it, friends – your guide to making the perfect chai hot toddy with bourbon. This drink isn’t just about keeping warm; it’s about savoring the moment, enjoying the flavors of the season, and maybe creating a little tradition of your own. So, here’s to long, cozy nights and deliciously warm sips. Cheers to you and yours!
Recommended Bar Tools
You don’t need every slick, beautiful bar tool out there, but there are several I’ll recommend. (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. However, that does not affect the cost of the items below.) My favorite pieces usually come from the Cocktail Kingdom section of Amazon:
You may already have these bar essentials, but just in case:
Chai Hot Toddy Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Old Bardstown Bottled in Bond bourbon
- ½ oz chai simple syrup
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- 3 oz hot chai tea or all 5-7 oz as chai tea
- 3 oz hot apple cider optional if you decide to use chai tea as the full base
- Garnish: ginger slice, cinnamon stick, and dried apple slice
Instructions
- Warm your mug with some boiling water to keep your toddy toasty longer. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes while you gather the ingredients for the toddy.
- Combine the ingredients in the mug. See the full recipe below for amounts.
- Add 3 oz of hot chai tea and 3 oz of hot apple cider into the mix. Stir gently to marry all the flavors together.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a slice of candied ginger, and a dried apple slice for that extra flair.
