Description
Wassail is a cozy, warm holiday beverage crafted by simmering apple cider with citrus juices and a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. Perfect for festive gatherings, this traditional American drink fills your home with seasonal scents and offers a comforting, spiced flavor that enhances any winter celebration.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Spices
- 4–6 cinnamon sticks
- 8–10 whole cloves
- 1–2 star anise (optional)
Fruits
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot or slow cooker, pour in the apple cider, orange juice, pineapple juice, and lemon juice. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise if using, and the sliced orange and apple for flavor and garnish.
- Simmer: Heat the mixture on low heat, allowing it to simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours. This slow heating process helps the spices and fruit infuse the cider with rich, aromatic flavors without boiling off the natural sweetness.
- Remove Spices: Once the mixture has simmered and the flavors have melded, carefully remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to prevent over-extraction and bitterness.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the wassail into mugs, ensuring some fruit slices get served as well. Enjoy it warm to fully savor the comforting and festive notes. For adults, add a splash of spiced rum just before serving if desired.
Notes
- For an adult version, add a splash of spiced rum just before serving for extra warmth and flavor.
- Adjust the number of cinnamon sticks and cloves according to your spice preference for a milder or stronger taste.
- Wassail can be prepared in advance and kept warm in a slow cooker for convenient serving during holiday gatherings.
- To make it less sweet, opt for unsweetened apple cider or dilute with a little water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Drinks, Holiday
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
