A ZERO-PROOF VERSION THAT IS INCREDIBLY COMFORTING THIS WINTER SEASON
Does anyone else feel like January has lasted 67+ days? Somehow, we’ve made it to the last day of the month. And what a month it's been.
I am taking this opportunity to close out my mocktail series with a bang. I've been making this recipe (or variations) of it for a minute, so I am excited to hear what y'all think of it now that's it up on the blog.
It's incredibly fitting that this is the final installment of my mocktail series this year. This n/a hot toddy is too good—it’s cozy, warming, and exactly what we need after making it through this seemingly never-ending month.
Whether you’re embracing Dry January or just love a great alcohol-free nightcap as I often do, this Chamomile Saffron N/A Hot Toddy is the perfect way to unwind.
Tea-based cocktails and mocktails have a special place in my heart. On most nights, I love ending my evenings with a cup of tea and a small piece of dark chocolate—it’s one of those little routines that makes a big difference for me. There's something about it that makes me feel like: okay, I can end the day now and go to bed. I love how calming it is to wrap up the day with a soothing sip, and this recipe captures that feeling beautifully.
Chamomile, with its lovely floral notes....makes the perfect base, while a touch of honey and lemon rounds out the flavors. It's your classic hot toddy but the flavor add that takes this up a notch are the golden strands of saffron. The saffron adds an aromatic complexity that makes this feel truly luxurious—like a warm hug in a mug.
Next up, we've got ourselves some zero-proof bourbon (which is totally optional but really makes you feel like you're drinking a hot toddy). And while this drink is technically alcohol-free, it doesn’t skimp on flavor, giving us hot toddy sans the booze.
Even though this is the last installment of my January mocktail series, I’m far from done creating incredible non-alcoholic recipes for you this year. It's such a fun creative process and I am thankful for the amazing feedback I've received for my mocktail recipes in particular.
In fact, I already have a new one lined up for next week—just in time for your Galentine’s or Valentine’s plans (trust me, you’re going to love it). Crafting dynamic and exciting mocktails is something I’m passionate about, and I can’t wait to keep pushing the boundaries of what an alcohol-free drink can be. Stay tuned for more and as always, thank you from the bottom of my heart!!
___________________________________________
INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup (6 oz) freshly brewed chamomile tea
Heavy pinch of saffron (roughly 7-11 strands)
1.5 oz zero-proof bourbon, optional but highly recommended (I used Free Spirits)
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 tablespoon honey (adjust to taste)
Thin fresh lemon slice and/or freshly grated nutmeg, optional for garnish
DIRECTIONS
In a mug, brew chamomile tea according to the package instructions.
Add in the saffron strands and let it steep for 2-3 minutes.
Add in the bourbon if using and lemon juice.
Next, add in the honey and stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
Pour into a heatproof mug or glass.
Garnish with a lemon slice and a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg if desired and enjoy warm!
~ Serves 1
Notes
Saffron adds a beautiful depth, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can most definitely make this recipe without it!
I know mentioned this above but you CAN make this recipe without the addition of a Bourbon alternative. The drink is delicious on its own, but if you want to mimic a classic hot toddy’s richness, this alcohol-free alternative is a great option! You can also add your favorite bourbon to the recipe, I'd just suggest starting with 1 oz bourbon vs. the 1.5 oz used in the above recipe using zero-proof.
If you're interested in making a bigger batch, I'd recommend keeping the tea warm in a pot or slow cooker for easy serving.
Comments