Though I’m always eyeing vintage brandy snifter sets, I don’t actually love brandy. Love the glasses, don’t love the alcohol. Or so I thought. But recently I’ve had a few cocktails that have included brandy and I’ve loved them. Enter calvados. For those not familiar with it, calvados is an apple brandy made in Normandy, distilled from cider that was made from special apples grown in the region.
Although it’s too strong for me to drink straight, it’s actually a fairly smooth brandy that would be great in cocktails. I’m excited to try out more complex recipes, but I decided to start with a hot toddy. I’ve been on the hunt for some tasty hot cocktails and this apple cider hot toddy with calvados is a great start to hot drink season. I mean, who doesn’t love a good hot toddy, right? This one is smooth, tastes like a fall harvest, and has a nice little kick to it. It was perfect for a cold lazy Sunday afternoon, and would be a perfect drink to serve at Thanksgiving as well. Just mix one up and relax on the couch with a warm blanket, you won’t regret it!
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
- 10 oz apple cider
- 2½- 3 Tbsp honey
- 2 sticks of cinnamon
- 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 oz Calvados
- Add the apple cider, honey, and cinnamon to a small saucepan. Heat on medium high heat until cider is just boiling, stirring frequently. Turn off heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Add the lemon juice and calvados and stir well. Divide between two mugs and enjoy!
Note: I was sent a sample of Calvados to enjoy but was otherwise not compensated. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
