Not Feeling Hot Toddies? Cool Down With a Cold Version

Why should cold-weather drinks be confined to the steamy category? If frozen cocktails can crash summer pool parties, why not let the toddy cool off for once?

So, What Exactly Is a Cold Toddy?

It’s exactly what it sounds like: a chilled version of the classic, with booze, honey, citrus, and water poured over ice. Simple in theory—but a little trickier in execution. Here’s why: honey isn’t exactly a team player when it comes to cold drinks. It likes a little heat to melt into the mix, and without it, you’ll just end up with globs of honey hiding at the bottom of your glass.

But don’t worry. There’s a workaround.

The Secret Weapon: Honey Syrup

Just like you’d use simple syrup to sweeten an iced coffee (because no one wants a pile of sugar granules sitting at the bottom of the cup), you’ll want honey syrup for a cold toddy. The good news? It’s ridiculously easy to make.

All you need to do is heat equal parts honey and water (say, ½ cup of each) until smooth, then store it in the fridge. It’ll keep for about a month—though let’s be real, if you start making cold toddies, it won’t last nearly that long.

One note: because you’re adding water to the honey, you’ll need to adjust your measurements. If a hot toddy calls for 1 ounce of honey, you’ll use 2 ounces of honey syrup to get the same flavor payoff.

How to Make a Cold Toddy at Home

Here’s your blueprint:

• 2 oz honey syrup (see above for the magic trick)

• 2–3 oz dark spirit of your choice (bourbon, rum, or brandy all work)

• Splash of fresh lemon juice

• Cool water to taste

• Ice

Stir everything together in a rocks glass with plenty of ice, garnish with a lemon wheel (because we’re fancy like that), and sip your way into a totally new toddy experience.

Why You Should Try It

A cold toddy is the best of both worlds: it nods to the tradition of the hot toddy, but with a crisp, refreshing vibe that makes it drinkable beyond fireplace season. It’s unexpected, a little cheeky, and just the thing when you want something comforting without breaking a sweat.

So the next time someone offers you a hot toddy and you’re not feeling the whole “steaming mug” thing? Smile sweetly, say “actually, I’ll take mine on the rocks,” and watch their eyebrows shoot up. You trendsetter, you.