As soon as September rolls around, I instantly want three things: apples, cinnamon, and my Hogwarts acceptance letter. Since I aged out of that last possibility, I have to content myself by drinking a Butterbeer-inspired Apple Cider Hot Toddy.
With warm autumn notes of cinnamon, clove, and vanilla, this drink will whisk you away to the moors of Scotland. The heat from the whiskey and the fizz of the ginger beer could transport anyone to The Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade. Topped with whipped cream, apple slices, and cinnamon sticks, it looks like shoppers will instantly be attracted to the appeal of Harry Potter. No need to argue with me on this, guys, because the story of The Boy Who Lived has no age limit. Consumers still go starry-eyed for anything Hogwarts-related—as well they should—and it’s not difficult to see these Butterbeer Apple Cider Hot Toddies imbibed at Harry Potter parties across the nation.
So grab your House scarf—badgers unite!—and whip up this exceptionally cozy drink for the perfect fall night in.
4 cups apple cider
3 cinnamon sticks
3 star anise
10 whole cloves
⅓ cup butterscotch sauce
1 cup ginger beer
2 tbsp vanilla
½ cup whiskey or bourbon (or more, depending on strength you prefer!)
Whipped cream, for garnish
Apple slices, for garnish
Servings: 4
1Combine apple cider, cinnamon, star anise, and cloves in a small sauce pan and bring to a boil over medium-low heat.
2Remove from heat, cover lid, and allow spices to steep for about 12-15 minutes.
3Strain out spices and return to pan. Add butterscotch sauce and allow to melt.
4Add whiskey or bourbon.
5Remove cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. Divide apple cider and bourbon mixture into four glasses.
6Top with ginger beer and whipped cream, and garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice.
