Apple Cider Hot Toddy

Ah, Cold Season. There you are! I’ve been expecting you.

Once again we’re faced with that time of year: there’s a nip in the air, a slight chill in the night, and an ever-present tickle in the back of my throat. It’s not a full-blown cold yet, but I can sense that it’s on the way.

We all have our tells. For me, some sure-as-rain clues that I have a cold on the way is an achiness in the back of my shoulder blades and really hot eyes. It sounds weird, but hey, that’s what happens. Usually, when I first get these symptoms (simultaneously), I hunker down and drown myself in all the cold remedies I know of. Lots of citrus. Cold FX. Lots of rest (including napping, if possible). Chamomile ginger popsicles. Lemon ginger hot toddies. And my new favourite, these apple cider hot toddies.

I see nothing wrong with a shot of whiskey while battling a cold. Sure, alcohol lowers the immune system in high quantities, but one little shot isn’t going to do much harm. The warm kick of whiskey is the perfect accompaniment to a soothing drink. The cozy flavours of the warm cider will sooth your insides, and the whiskey will help you fall asleep.

And sleep is so important when you’re battling a cold.

Moral of this post: A shot of whiskey keeps the doctor away.

(In my eyes, at least.)

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, branch out and make your own apple cider in a crock pot! It’s ridiculously easy, and not as sickly (pun intended) sweet as the store-bought stuff. I’ve made about four batches of this stuff already, and it’s only the first week of November!

Now, happy Friday, friends. Go rest up! If you’re not sick, take it easy. If you are sick, make a big bowl o’ soup and one of this apple cider toddies. Your body will thank you for it.