A simple, 7-ingredient hot toddy with chili-cinnamon infused maple simple syrup. Tart from lemon and sweet from the simple syrup and bourbon. A naturally sweetened, warming cocktail for the colder months.
Ingredients
SPICED CINNAMON MAPLE SIMPLE SYRUP
1 cup maple syrup (or other sweetener of choice, such as cane sugar or honey if not vegan)
1 cup water
2 whole cinnamon sticks
1 dried red chili pepper (see notes)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
HOT TODDY
1/2 medium lemon (juiced)
3-4 Tbsp spiced maple simple syrup
2 ounces bourbon (rye or traditional // 2 ounces = ~4 Tbsp)
Hot water (to fill)
Lemon wedge + cinnamon stick (for garnish)
Preparation
Instructions
SIMPLE SYRUP: Add maple syrup, water, cinnamon sticks, chili, and red pepper flakes to a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Then remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes – 1 hour (or longer). Strain and pour into a glass jar for serving.
ONE HOT TODDY: To make a single toddy, add the juice of half a lemon, 3-4 Tbsp Chili Cinnamon Maple Simple Syrup, 2 ounces bourbon, and hot water to top (use less water for a stronger drink, more water for a weaker drink).
Garnish with another cinnamon stick and lemon slice or wedge and serve. The longer it steeps the stronger the cinnamon, lemon flavor becomes.
Repeat for more drinks or make a large batch to serve a crowd by simply multiplying ingredients by number of drinks you need.
