Fernet Apple Hot Toddy

A hot toddy is the perfect comfort drink for cool nights. In this honey-sweetened rum and cider version, a touch of Fernet-Branca—herbal and bracing—keeps things interesting.

What to buy: A richly flavored dark rum, such as Cruzan Estate Dark or Barbancourt 3 Star, works best.

For more warm winter cocktails, try breaking out the crockpot with our spiked wassail recipe, using Calvados.

For the honey syrup:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons honey
• 3/4 teaspoon warm water

For the toddy:

• 3 ounces fresh, unfiltered apple cider
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce honey syrup
• 1 3/4 ounces dark rum
• 1/3 ounce Fernet-Branca
• 2 dashes angostura bitters
• 1/4 orange wheel, for garnish
• 2 whole cloves, for garnish

1. 1Stir together the honey and water until the honey dissolves. Set aside.

To assemble the toddy:

1. 1In a small saucepan bring the cider, lemon juice, and honey syrup to a simmer over medium heat.
2. 2Remove from the heat and stir in the rum, Fernet, and bitters.
3. 3Pour into a warmed mug and garnish with the orange wheel studded with cloves.