Winter Wassail Recipe
Thanks to my Mom, this Wassail recipe is a favorite holiday drink in our home. It’s a delightful warm cider that blends apple and orange flavors with spices to create a cozy holiday experience.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Tradition: A family favorite that evokes holiday memories. Perfect for Christmas morning!
- Cozy: Fills your home with the enchanting aroma of apples, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Delicious: Perfectly balanced and not overly sweet, a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
What is Wassail?
Originally, Wassail was a spirited drink made with liquor, apples, and spices. This nonalcoholic version combines apples, apple cider, orange juice, and spices for a family-friendly treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 apples
- 8 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 15 whole cloves (or ½ tsp ground cloves)
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 Tbsp light brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
Prep:
- Clove-Studded Apples: Poke the whole cloves into the apples on all sides. This step will infuse the Wassail with a subtly spiced aroma.
Cook:
- Combine Ingredients: Add the clove-studded apples, apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, ginger, nutmeg, and optional brown sugar to a large pot.
- Simmer: Heat over medium-low and bring to a gentle simmer. Simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
Serve:
- Strain and Serve: Remove the apples and whole cloves. Ladle the Wassail into mugs and serve warm.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop, in a microwave, or in a slow cooker until warmed through.
Variations:
- Alcoholic Version: Add a splash of your favorite spirit (brandy, bourbon, rum, or whiskey) before serving.
- Slow Cooker Option: Combine all ingredients in a crockpot. Cook on low for 2–3 hours or high for 1–2 hours. Reduce to “warm” for serving.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh apple cider and high-quality orange juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: The brown sugar is optional—taste before adding to adjust sweetness.
- Garnish: Add a cinnamon stick or an orange slice to each mug for a festive touch.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 142
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 28g
- Vitamin C: 31mg