When the weather turns chilly, I crave drinks that feel like a warm hug, and this Caramel Apple Hot Toddy is exactly that.
I made this recipe one cool autumn evening when I wanted something that tasted like a caramel apple but with a grown-up twist.
It turned out so good that I’ve been making it every holiday season since! The rich apple cider, smooth apple brandy, and sweet caramel sauce blend perfectly, while a touch of cinnamon and bourbon (optional) adds that extra warmth.
If you love apple cider cocktails, this drink will quickly become your favorite.
Contents
- 1 Why You Will Love This Recipe?
- 2 How To Make Caramel Apple Hot Toddy?
- 3 Nutrition (Per Serving)
- 4 Tips and Variations
- 5 Serving Suggestions
- 6 Storing Tips
- 7 What Other Types of Alcohol Can Go Into a Spiked Apple Cider Recipe?
- 8 Can You Make a Large Batch of This Hot Apple Cider Recipe?
- 9 Conclusion
- 10 Caramel Apple Hot Toddy
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
1. It’s quick and simple: No fancy tools or bartending skills needed.
2. Perfect for holidays: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or cozy nights by the fire.
3. Customizable: You can swap the alcohol or make it non-alcoholic for family-friendly gatherings.
4. Tastes like fall in a glass: Apple, caramel, and cinnamon – enough said!
How To Make Caramel Apple Hot Toddy?
Recipe Overview
Caramel Apple Hot Toddy is a warm, comforting cocktail made with apple cider, apple brandy, caramel syrup, and spices. It’s topped with whipped cream for that cozy dessert vibe.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Drink/Cocktail
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Yield: 4 servings
- Calories: Approx. 220 per serving
- Serving Size: 1 glass (10 oz)
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cocktail serving glass (I used a 10-ounce highball glass)
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Bar spoon
- Citrus juicer or reamer (for fresh lemon juice)
- Knife and cutting board (for garnish)
Ingredients
- 14 oz apple cider
- 14 oz apple brandy
- 6 tablespoons caramel flavoring syrup
- 2–3 tablespoons apple caramel sauce
- 1 dl alcohol (rum, whiskey, or spiced rum)
- 2–3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon honeycrisp syrup
- 1 lemon wedge, juiced
- ½ cup bourbon (optional – cuts sweetness)
- Sweetened whipped cream (optional topping)
Ingredient Notes
- Apple cider: Go for fresh apple cider for the best flavor.
- Apple brandy: Adds a rich apple depth – Calvados works great!
- Caramel syrup: Store-bought or homemade both work.
- Bourbon: Optional, but I love how it balances the sweetness.
Instructions – How to Make Caramel Apple Hot Toddy
1. Warm the base: In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, caramel syrup, apple caramel sauce, and cinnamon sticks. Heat on low until hot but not boiling.
2. Add the spirits: Stir in apple brandy, honeycrisp syrup, and bourbon (if using). Let it warm for another minute.
3. Add lemon: Squeeze in the juice of one lemon wedge for a little brightness.
4. Serve: Pour the hot toddy into a 10-ounce glass.
Top it off: Add a dollop of whipped cream and drizzle with caramel sauce. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice.
Tip: If you want a stronger flavor, let the cinnamon sticks steep in the hot cider for 5–7 minutes before adding the alcohol.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~220
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 2g (if using whipped cream)
Tips and Variations
➤ Non-alcoholic version: Skip the brandy and bourbon; add extra caramel syrup and a splash of vanilla extract.
➤ Make ahead: Prepare the apple cider base and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Heat and add alcohol before serving.
➤ Garnish ideas: Try a caramel-drizzled rim, apple slices, or star anise for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions
1. Serve this hot toddy with warm apple pie, snickerdoodles, or spiced nuts for the perfect holiday treat.
2. I love pairing it with a cozy cheese board when friends are over – it’s a hit!
Storing Tips
Leftover hot toddy (without whipped cream) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Recipe Note
This recipe is all about balancing sweet caramel with the warmth of apple and bourbon. Taste as you go – you might prefer more or less caramel, depending on your sweet tooth!
What Other Types of Alcohol Can Go Into a Spiked Apple Cider Recipe?
This recipe is flexible! If you don’t have apple brandy or bourbon, try using dark rum, whiskey, or even spiced rum for a warmer, more fragrant twist.
Can You Make a Large Batch of This Hot Apple Cider Recipe?
Absolutely! You can make a big pot of this caramel apple hot toddy and keep it warm on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. It’s perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Conclusion
If you’ve been looking for the ultimate cozy drink, this Caramel Apple Hot Toddy is it. Try it on your next fall night in, and I promise you’ll love every sip.
If you make this recipe, tag me or drop a comment – I’d love to know how it turned out for you!
Caramel Apple Hot Toddy
Equipment
- Cocktail serving glass
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Bar spoon
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 14 oz apple cider
- 14 oz apple brandy
- 6 tablespoons caramel flavoring syrup
- 2 –3 tablespoons apple caramel sauce
- 1 dl alcohol rum, whiskey, or spiced rum
- 2 –3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon honeycrisp syrup
- 1 lemon wedge juiced
- ½ cup bourbon optional – cuts sweetness
- Sweetened whipped cream optional topping
Instructions
- Warm the base: In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, caramel syrup, apple caramel sauce, and cinnamon sticks. Heat on low until hot but not boiling.
- Add the spirits: Stir in apple brandy, honeycrisp syrup, and bourbon (if using). Let it warm for another minute.
- Add lemon: Squeeze in the juice of one lemon wedge for a little brightness.
- Serve: Pour the hot toddy into a 10-ounce glass.
Notes
Welcome to alljuicecorner.com, your go-to resource for all things juice! I’m Marina, the passionate juice enthusiast and health advocate behind this vibrant community. My journey into the world of juicing began five years ago, sparked by a desire to embrace a healthier lifestyle and explore the nutritional power of fruits and vegetables. I spent countless hours researching, experimenting with different combinations, and understanding the science behind each sip.
I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the juice table. My mission is simple: to share the joy and health benefits of juicing with as many people as possible. Through “alljuicecorner.com,” I aim to demystify the world of juicing, offering easy-to-follow recipes, tips on selecting the right produce, and insights into the health benefits of various ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned juicer or just starting, this blog is designed to be your companion on this delicious journey.