Description
Wassail is a warm, spiced punch that’s perfect for the holiday season. This traditional drink, often made with apple cider, citrus, and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, is ideal for gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. It’s easy to prepare, and your house will smell amazing as it simmers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ½ cup lemon juice
- ½ cup brown sugar (optional, to taste)
- 1 large orange, sliced
- 1 large apple, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 6 whole allspice berries
- 1 star anise (optional)
- ½ cup rum or brandy (optional, for an alcoholic version)
Instructions
- In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the apple cider, orange juice, cranberry juice, and lemon juice.
- Add the brown sugar (if using), orange slices, apple slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, and star anise.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Strain out the spices and fruit before serving if you prefer a clear drink.
- If desired, stir in rum or brandy just before serving for an alcoholic twist.
- Serve warm in mugs, garnished with additional orange slices or cinnamon sticks.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your preference.
- The alcohol can be left out for a non-alcoholic version that’s family-friendly.
- You can also serve it in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting for gatherings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 5mg