Chamomile Hot Toddy

I’m a wimp. There’s no way around it. While the rest of the country is knee-deep in snow, I’m hiding inside with a hot cup of coffee, the heater on blast, and rocking my long underwear. Did I mention that I live in California, and the temperature outside is in the low-60s? Like I said, I’m a wimp. So I guess it’s no surprise that I’m enjoying my fair share of warm cocktails these days. Case in point, these chamomile hot toddies. You know I love simple twists on classic cocktails, and this chamomile honey syrup is as good as it gets.

Photography shot with the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 digital SLR camera. Small in size, enormous in performance.

Chamomile Hot Toddy

The simple twist on the classic Hot Toddy made with a honey chamomile syrup

Servings: 1 cocktail

INGREDIENTS

For the cocktail

• 1 1/2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz chamomile honey syrup
• 4 oz hot water
• lemon wedge and chamomile flowers (for garnish)

For the chamomile honey syrup

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/8 cup hot water
• 1 tablespoon dried chamomile

INSTRUCTIONS

For the chamomile honey syrup

1. Combine hot water with honey and stir until evenly mixed. Add chamomile, stirring to combine. Let cool, approximately 30 minutes, then pour through a fine mesh strainer to remove chamomile.

For the cocktail

1. Add the bourbon, lemon juice, and chamomile honey syrup to a heat-resistent glass or mug.
2. Top with the hot water and stir so that all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Garnish with a half-wheel of lemon and a few chamomile flowers.

NOTES

• For an added chamomile kick, substitute the hot water with hot chamomile tea.
• As always, feel free to adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more honey syrup. More tart? Squeeze an extra lemon wedge. Not strong enough . . . well, you know what to do. As long as you're keeping warm, you're doing it right.

(images by HonestlyYUM)