Wassail (Hot Spiced Apple Cider)

A warm, fragrant, and cozy drink perfect for cold weather or festive gatherings. This traditional Wassail combines apple cider, citrus juices, and aromatic spices for a comforting beverage that fills your home with the scent of the holidays.

---

Ingredients

• 2 apples
• 8 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• ⅓ cup lemon juice
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 15 whole cloves (or ½ teaspoon ground cloves)
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the apples:
   Using a toothpick or the tip of a knife, poke the whole cloves into the apples, spacing them evenly around each apple.
2. Combine ingredients:
   In a large pot, add the apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, brown sugar (if using), and the clove-studded apples.
3. Simmer the Wassail:
   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30–45 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Strain and serve:
   Remove the apples and cinnamon sticks before serving. Ladle the hot Wassail into mugs and enjoy warm.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly spiced: A cozy balance of sweet, tangy, and warm spices.
• Festive aroma: Fills your home with an inviting holiday fragrance.
• Simple and natural: Made with fresh fruits and real juice—no artificial mixes.
• Crowd-pleaser: Great for gatherings, winter holidays, or quiet nights by the fire.

---

Tips

• Don’t boil too hard: Keep the mixture at a gentle simmer to preserve the flavors and avoid bitterness.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste before serving and add a bit more brown sugar or honey if desired.
• Make it ahead: Prepare Wassail a day early, refrigerate, and reheat before serving — the flavors deepen overnight.
• Keep it warm: Use a slow cooker on the “warm” setting for parties or family gatherings.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• No apple cider? Substitute with unsweetened apple juice and increase the spices slightly.
• Add spice depth: Include star anise or cardamom pods for extra warmth.
• Spiked Wassail: For adult gatherings, stir in a splash of spiced rum, brandy, or bourbon before serving.
• Citrus twist: Add orange slices or lemon zest for extra brightness.
• Low-sugar version: Skip the brown sugar or use a sugar-free sweetener.

---

FAQs

Can I use ground spices instead of whole ones?
Yes, but use them sparingly (about half the amount) and strain the Wassail before serving to remove any residue.

How long does Wassail last?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a slow cooker.

Can I freeze it?
Yes — let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

What apples work best?
Use firm, aromatic varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji that hold their shape while simmering.

---

Serving and Suggestions

Serve Wassail piping hot in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick, an orange slice, or a few floating cranberries for a festive look. It pairs beautifully with holiday cookies, gingerbread, or spiced cake. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, chilly evenings, or any time you want a warm, comforting drink.