Warm Up the Vermont Way: Hot Toddy with Smoked Maple Syrup

Warm Up the Vermont Way: Hot Toddy with Smoked Maple Syrup

When the temperature drops, Vermonters know how to stay warm — with a little smoke, a little maple, and a splash of something smooth, this Vermont-style Hot Toddy takes the classic cocktail and gives it a local twist: swapping honey for Sugar Bob’s Smoked Maple Syrup, handcrafted in Chester, Vermont.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Bob’s Smoked Maple Syrup
  • ¾ cup hot water
  • ½ oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon wheel or twist (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Combine the base: Pour whiskey and Sugar Bob’s Smoked Maple Syrup into a heatproof mug.
  • Add warmth: Top with hot water and lemon juice.
  • Stir gently: Mix until the syrup fully dissolves.
  • Adjust to taste: Add more syrup for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
  • Finish strong: Garnish with a cinnamon stick and lemon wheel.
  • Sip and enjoy: Take a moment — that’s Vermont warmth in every sip.

Pro Tip
Try it with rye whiskey for a spicier backbone or add a splash of apple cider for a softer, fruit-forward variation. For a non-alcoholic twist, replace the whiskey with black tea — the smoked maple still shines through.

Serving Ideas

  • Pair with apple crisp or spiced nuts for a fireside snack.
  • Serve as a welcome drink at holiday gatherings or winter dinners.
  • Pour it into a thermos for a cozy après-ski moment.
Back to Recipes

“For a holiday breakfast treat, use Irish breakfast tea in the recipe and get that gift-opening morning a hot, smoky start.”

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Sugar Bob's

Made in Vermont

Local woods. Local folks.
Sugar Bob's

All-Natural

No junk. Just flavor.
Sugar Bob's

From Family Farms

Real people. Real trees.
Sugar Bob's

No Sugar

Only what belongs.
Sugar Bob's

Vegan-Friendly

Yup, even the BBQ sauce.