Hot Toddy Spiced Honey Citrus (Printable version)

Comforting blend of honey, citrus, and warming spices, ideal for cozy, chilly moments.

# List of ingredients:

01 - 1 lemon, sliced (plus extra for garnish)

02 - 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)

03 - 2 cinnamon sticks

04 - 4 whole cloves

05 - 2 thin slices fresh ginger

06 - 2 cups hot water

07 - Optional: 1 black tea bag

01 - Combine water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ginger in a small saucepan. Simmer gently over medium heat for 5 minutes.

02 - Remove from heat; add lemon slices and steep for 2 minutes.

03 - Place tea bag in mug if using, then pour hot spiced liquid over it. Steep 2 to 3 minutes and remove the tea bag.

04 - Stir in honey or maple syrup until fully dissolved.

05 - Strain mixture into mugs, garnish with lemon slices or a cinnamon stick, and serve warm.

01 -

It comes together in 15 minutes but feels like you've been simmering something all day.
The spices do the heavy lifting, so you taste warmth rather than effort.
It's naturally soothing without any alcohol, so it works for any time, any mood.

02 -

Don't skip straining—floating spice bits look rustic but feel gritty on your tongue, and whole cloves are surprisingly bitter when you bite into one.
The honey won't dissolve if you add it to a cooled drink, so always work with hot liquid or you'll end up with a sweetened slurry at the bottom.

03 -

Slice your lemon lengthwise rather than in rounds—it looks more intentional and the longer strips don't scatter as easily.
Prep your spices in advance on a quiet morning and you can make this in minutes when dusk falls and you need it most.