Hot Toddy Without Alcohol

Hot toddy without alcohol is my go-to when I want that warming, soothing ritual without the booze — especially when I'm fighting something off and don't want whiskey mixing with cold medicine.

The secret to making a non-alcoholic hot toddy that actually has depth? Fire cider. That tangy, spicy kick replaces the burn of whiskey and brings real immune-boosting power to the mug. If you don't have fire cider on hand, apple cider vinegar works too — but once you try it with fire cider, you won't go back.

I first started making these during my years working at an infused vinegar brand. Hot water, honey, lemon, and a splash of something fermented — it was the unofficial staff cold remedy. This version has stuck with me ever since

Jump to:

• Quick Look: Hot Toddy Without Alcohol
• Why Skip the Alcohol?
• Why Fire Cider Works Here
• Ingredients:
• Instructions
• Additional Variations
• What's the story with hot toddies?
• FAQ
• Recipe
• More Warming Remedies
• 💬 Comments

Why Skip the Alcohol?

There are plenty of reasons to want a hot toddy without the whiskey:

• You're taking cold medicine and can't mix with alcohol
• You're pregnant or breastfeeding
• You're cutting back on drinking
• You want something warming after exercise or being out in the cold
• You just don't feel like booze but still want the ritual

Whatever your reason, this version delivers the same cozy, throat-soothing comfort without the alcohol.

This hot toddy is best served warm with a cinnamon stick garnish.

Why Fire Cider Works Here

Traditional hot toddies rely on whiskey for that burn and complexity. Fire cider — a spicy, tangy vinegar infused with garlic, ginger, horseradish, and hot peppers — gives you that same kick without the alcohol.

Plus, fire cider brings its own cold-fighting reputation. Combined with raw honey and fresh lemon, you've got a mug that actually supports your immune system instead of suppressing it.

Don't have fire cider? Use apple cider vinegar with a pinch of cayenne. It's not quite the same, but it works.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz boiling water
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 1 ½ tablespoons honey (preferably raw honey, but use whatever you have on hand)
• 1 slice of lemon
• 2 teaspoons of chili powder
• 1 oz of fire cider (or infused apple cider vinegar of choice)

Instructions

1. Heat water in a kettle until just below boiling
2. Add honey, lemon juice, and fire cider to a 12 oz mug
3. Pour hot water over and stir until honey dissolves
4. Taste and adjust — more honey for sweetness, more lemon for brightness, more fire cider for heat
5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or lemon slice

Additional Variations

Ingredient	What It Adds
Green tea or black tea	Warm, cozy spice that complements holiday dishes
Fresh ginger slices	Anti-inflammatory and grounding; adds earthy depth
Turmeric	Earthy, savory note for cheese pairings
Maple syrup	Lowers pH, adds tang, extends shelf life
Orange slice	Sweeter, more mellow citrus note
Fermented garlic honey	Savory depth, extra immune support
Star anise or whole cloves	Classic hot toddy spice notes

What's the story with hot toddies?

If there is one tradition that has been a part of our culture for years, it is the hot toddy, but did you know it has roots in India? The cozy, warm beverage has been around since at least the 1700s. It was thought to be a cure-all for common ailments and cold symptoms, and sore throat, and was often prescribed by doctors and pharmacists.

Often made with whiskey, a hot toddy can be made with any liquor or spirit. I prefer to use fire cider because it adds an extra kick of flavor along with the health benefits of turmeric and ginger root.

This is a great drink anytime you are feeling under the weather or just plain cold!

FAQ

Recipe

More Warming Remedies

• Hot Toddy with Vodka — for when you do want the booze
• Onion Honey Cough Syrup
• Fermented Garlic Honey
• Ginger Honey
• Clove Tea