Excerpts

Make the Perfect Fall Cocktail, Apple Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy With Half Baked Harvest

Indulge in this twist on the beloved hot toddy cocktail from Tieghan Gerard’s latest cookbook, Half Baked Harvest Quick & Cozy.

From bestselling author and the culinary mind behind the beloved Half Baked Harvest Tiegan Gerard comes a new cookbook that leverages simple, readily available ingredients to create comforting meals quickly; Half Baked Harvest Quick & Cozy. As the weather cools, a popular choice is the hot toddy. Elevate this classic with a twist by infusing it with vanilla and chai tea. Enjoy this autumn drink that feels like a warm hug, and don’t forget to try the mocktail version too!

Apple Vanilla Chai Hot Toddy

Make 2 Drinks

Ingredients

1/2 cup apple cider
2 organic chai tea bags
3 small cinnamon sticks
1 orange slice
Cayenne pepper
Fine pink Himalayan salt
4 ounces (1/2 cup) bourbon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For Serving

Apple slices
Star anise

1. In a small saucepan, bring the cider and ½ cup of water to a boil over high heat. Add the tea bags, 1 cinnamon stick, the orange slice, and a small pinch each of cayenne and salt. Remove from the heat, cover, and let steep until very fragrant and darker in color, about 10 minutes.

2. Return the pan to medium heat and warm until steaming. Remove from the heat and add the bourbon, lemon juice, honey, and vanilla.

3. Divide the drink between two mugs. Garnish each one with an apple slice, a cinnamon stick (see page 67 for how to light it), and star anise and serve immediately.