Ultra cozy and warming-to-boot, this paleo and keto hot toddy honors a classic Scottish favorite. In short: a tried-and-true human anti-freeze — or tea for grownups.
Paleo & Keto Hot Toddy 🍯
Ultra cozy!
It was a cold, wet New York City winter night — no cabs, surge-priced rides — when a friend grinned and said, “Trust me, I know a place!” She led me into a tiny, empty dive bar and ordered, laughing, “Two hot toddies, please!”
I’d spent four years in Scotland yet had my first hot toddy in that NYC bar. One sip and I understood why a hot toddy feels like human anti-freeze: warming, comforting, and perfectly simple.
The hot toddy spices
Traditionally, the essential spice for a hot toddy is cloves. For extra aroma and depth, add a cinnamon stick and a star anise. Cloves are potent: two cloves embedded in a lemon slice usually provide plenty of flavor.
The “honey”
If you follow paleo, use real honey. For a keto-friendly option, a blend of allulose syrup and honey extract works very well, or you can use a ready-made keto “honey” product. If none of these are available, any granular sweetener that dissolves in hot water will do — the goal is just a touch of sweetness to balance the lemon and spirit.
The booze
Because this drink has Scottish roots, scotch is a natural choice, but bourbon or another whiskey works beautifully too. Keep in mind that distilled spirits are carb-free, but alcohol can affect you more strongly while in ketosis, so sip responsibly.
Want more holiday drinks? Try a keto eggnog for another festive option.
Cozy (Cozy, Cozy!) Paleo & Keto Hot Tody
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
For the paleo & keto hot toddy
- 2 ounces scotch or bourbon/whiskey
- 1 tablespoon keto “honey” see notes for alternatives
- a good squeeze lemon
- 1 lemon slice
- 2 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- boiling water to top off
Instructions
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Add scotch, keto “honey” (or real honey if paleo) and the juice of half a lemon to a heatproof mug or glass. Stir to combine.
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Embed the cloves into the lemon slice, add it to the mug along with the cinnamon stick and star anise. Top with boiling water, stir gently, and enjoy.
Notes
The ‘honey’
If you prefer paleo, use real honey. For keto, try a combination of allulose syrup plus honey extract, or a ready-made keto honey substitute. Any sweetener that dissolves in hot water will work if you need a quick alternative.
Nutrition