Andressa Pires is director of beverages and bar manager at gaming/event space Sugar Mouse and the social club Sour Mouse in New York.
As a true Brazilian, I’m always reaching for a cold beer, no matter the season. However, with winter settling in here in New York, I’ve shifted my focus to warming drinks like Hot Toddies and Hot Booze Apple Cider.
The Hot Toddy, with its comforting blend of whiskey, honey, lemon and warm water, feels like a hug in a mug during these chilly months.
The Hot Booze Apple Cider, on the other hand, is my favorite winter twist — steaming apple cider spiked with rum or whiskey. It’s both nostalgic and cozy, bringing a touch of sweetness and spice to the colder days.
These drinks are perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying with friends as we gather around to celebrate the season.
Hot Booze Apple Cider
- 2 oz. Whiskey (or rum)
- 6 oz. Hot apple cider
- 1 oz. Orange juice
- 1 Clove
- 1 Star anise
- 1 Cinnamon stick
In a saucepan, heat the apple cider until steaming, but not boiling. Pour the hot cider into a mug and add the whiskey (or rum), orange juice, clove, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Stir well, letting the spices infuse. Garnish with an orange slice and serve hot.
Hot Toddy
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Whiskey bourbon or Scotch are common choices
- 1 tbsp. Honey
- 1 tbsp. Lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 6 oz. Hot water
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 1-2 Cloves
Instructions
- In a heat-resistant glass, combine the whiskey, honey, and lemon juice.
- Add the hot water and stir to dissolve the honey.
- Drop in the clove and cinnamon stick.
- Stir gently, and let the flavors infuse for a minute
- Garnish with a lemon slice.
