Discover our delicious Hot Toddy Recipe. Perfect for warming up your nights! The Easiest Hot Toddy Recipe for Cozy Evenings~

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

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Hot Toddy & Native Aussie Sips: Cosy Winters, Bright Summers (AU ml)

Meta title: Hot Toddy & Australian Native Cocktail Recipes | Winter Warmer + Summer Sipper (AU ml)
Meta description: Master a classic Hot Toddy and a zesty Aussie native cocktail featuring finger lime, lemon myrtle & pepperberry. Full AU measurements, tips, and RSA guidance.

Why We Love a Hot Toddy (History, Benefits, Vibes)

A hot toddy is the winter hug-in-a-mug we all reach for when the chill sets in. Born in 18th-century Scotland, it’s stood the test of time thanks to its simple build (whisky, lemon, honey, hot water) and comforting spice (hello, cinnamon and clove). Beyond the nostalgia, the combo of warmth, steam, citrus and honey can feel soothing when you’re under the weather—while the whisky’s gentle vasodilation adds that “ahhh” moment.

Make it yours: switch whisky for rum, add nutmeg or cardamom, or dial sweetness/acid to taste.

Australia’s Summer Pantry: Finger Lime, Lemon Myrtle & Friends

When the weather flips, Australia’s native botanicals absolutely shine in the glass:

Finger lime (citrus pearls): bright, popping acidity that can replace or amplify lemon/lime.
Lemon myrtle: intensely lemony, floral and fresh—amazing in syrups and garnishes.
Tasmanian pepperberry: gentle heat and berry-spice; use bitters/syrups sparingly.

Source smart & sustainable: farmers’ markets, reputable online native suppliers, and producers who champion ethical harvesting. Balance is everything—layer sweetness, acidity and spice so the botanicals sing, not shout.

Recipe 1 — Classic Hot Toddy (AU ml)

You’ll need (serves 1):

60 ml whisky (choose something with character)
15 ml fresh lemon juice
30 ml honey (warm slightly if needed)
240 ml hot water (just off the boil)
1 cinnamon stick + 2 whole cloves
Optional: pinch nutmeg/cardamom, lemon wheel

Method:

Add whisky, lemon and honey to a heatproof mug.
Pour over hot water; stir to dissolve honey.
Add cinnamon/cloves. Taste and adjust sweetness/acid.
Garnish and sip somewhere cosy.

Pro tips: Don’t boil—too hot flattens flavour. If you’re spice-forward, steep 5–7 minutes; remove cloves to avoid bitterness.

Recipe 2 — Native Summer Smash (Gin, Finger Lime, Lemon Myrtle)

You’ll need (serves 1):

60 ml Australian gin (botanical style works beautifully)
30 ml finger lime juice* (or 20 ml lime + 10 ml grapefruit)
15 ml lemon myrtle simple syrup**
2–3 dashes Tasmanian pepperberry bitters
Ice + soda water (optional, to top)
Garnish: finger lime pearls or lemon myrtle sprig

*If finger lime juice is scarce, squeeze pearls through a fine strainer.
**Lemon myrtle syrup: simmer 100 g sugar + 120 ml water; add 1–2 tsp dried lemon myrtle, steep 10–15 min, strain, chill.

Method:

Shake gin, finger lime juice, lemon myrtle syrup and bitters hard with ice (10–12 sec).
Fine strain into a chilled coupe (or rocks over ice).
Optional: top with a splash of soda for lift.
Garnish and serve immediately.

Pro tips: Start light on pepperberry bitters—add carefully. For a spritz, build in a wine glass over ice and top with dry Aussie bubbles.

Hot vs. Cold: Stealing Flavour Across Seasons

Summer nod to toddy: shake gin/rum with honey-ginger syrup, lemon and soda—cosy flavours, cooler serve.
Winter nod to natives: float a few finger lime pearls over a warm whisky, honey & ginger build for aromatic pop.

Pairing Ideas

Hot Toddy: beef or mushroom stew, roast chook, apple crumble, ginger biscuits.
Native Summer Smash: fresh prawns, grilled fish with salsa verde, goat’s cheese salad, citrus-led ceviche.

Bartender Notes (KAD’s Quick Wins)

Fresh citrus > bottled. Always.
Chill glassware for cold builds; pre-warm mugs for hot.
Spice = steep time control. Taste every 60–90 seconds.
Garnish with intent: it should smell like what you’ll taste.
Batch for parties (minus dilution/soda); add ice/tops to order.

RSA Reminder (Australia)

30 ml 40% ABV spirit ≈ 1 standard drink.
Offer water and food; serve mindfully; never drink and drive.
Learn more: Liquor & Gaming NSW (RSA training & regulations).

FAQs

Can I make a toddy without alcohol?
Absolutely—swap whisky for hot black tea or alcohol-free dark spirit, keep lemon/honey/spices.

Finger lime hard to find?
Use fresh lime + a spoon of grapefruit for aroma; garnish with lime zest for lift.

How long does lemon myrtle syrup keep?
Up to 2 weeks refrigerated in a sterile bottle.

Final Pour

Two seasons, two standouts: the Hot Toddy for snug winter nights, and a Native Summer Smash when the mercury climbs. Master the builds, then riff with your pantry—Australia’s botanicals have range for days.

Thanks for joining us behind the bar!

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/