Wassail is a traditional holiday drink that has been enjoyed for centuries, often associated with carolers and festive gatherings. This warm, spiced cider punch brings together the sweet, tart flavors of apple cider, paired with the rich aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. Wassail has long been a part of holiday traditions, especially in England, where it was served to bring good health and cheer to friends and neighbors.
Perfect for large gatherings, Wassail is a great choice for your holiday parties or family get-togethers. The beauty of this drink lies in its versatility: it can be made with or without alcohol and can be easily adjusted to suit any crowd. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, Wassail is sure to bring comfort and warmth to your celebrations.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 8-10 people.
Ingredients
- 6 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 2-3 slices of fresh ginger
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1/2 cup brandy or rum (optional)
Directions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice.
- Add the brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and fresh ginger.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add the sliced apple and orange to the pot.
- Let the Wassail simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the spices and fruits to infuse the liquid.
- For an alcoholic version, add the brandy or rum in the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Remove from heat and strain the Wassail to remove the solids.
- Serve the Wassail warm, garnished with additional cinnamon sticks or fruit slices, if desired.
How to Prepare
Start by combining apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice in a large pot. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and slices of ginger to infuse the drink with holiday flavors. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Let the Wassail simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the fruits and spices to meld together, creating a fragrant, spiced aroma.
If you prefer an alcoholic Wassail, add brandy or rum in the last 5 minutes of simmering to allow it to blend in. Once the flavors have melded together, strain out the solids to leave a smooth, flavorful punch. Serve the Wassail warm, with optional garnishes like cinnamon sticks, orange slices, or even a splash of rum for extra warmth.
FAQs
Can I make Wassail in advance?
Yes, Wassail can be made a day in advance. Simply heat it up before serving and add the alcohol just before serving if desired.
Can I make a non-alcoholic Wassail?
Absolutely! Just omit the brandy or rum, and enjoy a delicious, family-friendly version of Wassail.
Can I use bottled juice instead of fresh?
Yes, bottled juices work well, but fresh juice will enhance the flavor of your Wassail.
Can I use other fruits in Wassail?
Feel free to add other fruits like pears or cranberries for extra flavor and color.
How long can I store leftover Wassail?
You can store leftover Wassail in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
Wassail is the perfect drink to fill your home with warmth and festive cheer. This traditional spiced cider punch has been enjoyed for centuries, and its comforting flavors make it a holiday favorite. Whether you serve it with or without alcohol, Wassail is sure to bring joy to any gathering.
The sweet combination of cider, citrus, and spices creates a deliciously aromatic beverage that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a hassle-free choice for your holiday celebrations. Enjoy the rich, comforting warmth of Wassail and create lasting memories with friends and family this holiday season. Cheers to good health, good company, and great traditions!
