Wassail is a traditional holiday beverage with roots in Anglo-Saxon culture, where the greeting “waes hael” wished others good health. This easy-to-prepare recipe fills the home with the festive aroma of warm apple cider, citrus, and fragrant spices.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a quiet evening, it offers a comforting taste of tradition suitable for all occasions.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Wassail Recipe
- Effortlessly Festive: This Wassail recipe makes entertaining a breeze. Simply simmer and serve, filling your home with an irresistible aroma that instantly signals the holidays.
- Rich in History & Flavor: Delight your guests with a drink steeped in ancient tradition. Every sip offers a perfect balance of warm spices, tart citrus, and sweet apple.
- Customizable for Everyone: Easily adapt this recipe for all ages. Serve it non-alcoholic for a family-friendly treat, or offer a spirit-friendly option for adult guests.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or a cozy evening, this Wassail is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It keeps warm beautifully, allowing you to relax and enjoy the celebration.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, such as Gala or Honeycrisp
- 8 cups (2 quarts) unsweetened apple cider
- 2 cups (16 oz) fresh orange juice
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cinnamon sticks, 3-inch long
- 15-20 whole cloves
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
- 2 whole star anise
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, optional (adjust to taste)
- Orange slices and fresh cranberries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1:
Carefully stud each apple with 7-10 whole cloves, distributing them evenly. This infuses the apples and subsequently the wassail with a delightful spice. Gather your cinnamon sticks, fresh ginger slices, and star anise.
Step 2:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, clove-studded apples, cinnamon sticks, fresh ginger slices, star anise, and freshly grated nutmeg. If using, add the optional brown sugar now.
Step 3:
Place the pot over medium-low heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Do not allow it to boil, as this can diminish the delicate flavors. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes, or up to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more robust the taste.
Step 4:
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the clove-studded apples, cinnamon sticks, ginger slices, and star anise from the pot before serving. Ladle the warm wassail into heatproof mugs. Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice and a few cranberries, if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve your Wassail warm, ideally in heat-proof mugs, garnished with fresh orange slices and a few cranberries for a beautiful, festive touch. A cinnamon stick can also add an elegant flair. Keep the Wassail on a low simmer in a slow cooker or on the stovetop over very low heat during your gathering to ensure it stays perfectly warm for your guests. Leftover Wassail can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in a slow cooker until it reaches your desired temperature. Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate flavors. For make-ahead convenience, prepare the Wassail a day in advance and reheat just before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Slow Cooker Method: For effortless entertaining, transfer your Wassail to a slow cooker after its initial simmer. Set it to ‘warm’ or ‘low’ to keep it hot for hours, allowing flavors to deepen beautifully and guests to serve themselves.
- Spice Control: For a stronger spice infusion, you can gently crush the whole cloves and cinnamon sticks slightly before adding them. Remember to strain them out if the flavor becomes too intense, especially if keeping it warm for a long period.
- Sweetness Adjustment: The optional brown sugar is truly to taste. Start without it, then sweeten gradually. You can also use maple syrup or honey for a different depth of flavor, or skip added sugar entirely if your cider is already sweet enough.
- Alcoholic Variations: Enhance your Wassail with a splash of your favorite spirit! Brandy or bourbon adds a warm, oaky note, while dark rum offers a caramel richness. Offer these alongside the non-alcoholic base so guests can customize their drinks. For those seeking other comforting, spiced beverages, consider exploring an herbal cordial recipe.
- Fruitful Additions: For an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, consider adding a few slices of baked apple or a handful of fresh cranberries to the simmering pot. These fruits will absorb the Wassail’s spices and become delightful to eat.
Conclusion
This Wassail recipe offers more than just a drink; it’s a sensory journey that encapsulates the joy and warmth of the holiday season. With its rich history and irresistible aroma, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering. Simple to prepare yet profoundly flavorful, it brings a touch of ancient tradition into your modern home. Don’t just make a drink; create an experience. We’d love to hear how this Wassail brightened your holiday season! Please share your thoughts and a star rating in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media when you share your beautiful Wassail creations. Your feedback helps us continue sharing delicious recipes with our community!
Wassail Recipe Your Ultimate Guide to a Festive Brew
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples such as Gala or Honeycrisp
- 8 cups 2 quarts unsweetened apple cider
- 2 cups 16 oz fresh orange juice
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cinnamon sticks 3-inch long
- 15-20 whole cloves
- 1- inch piece fresh ginger thinly sliced
- 2 whole star anise
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar optional (adjust to taste)
- Orange slices and fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1:
- Carefully stud each apple with 7-10 whole cloves, distributing them evenly. This infuses the apples and subsequently the wassail with a delightful spice. Gather your cinnamon sticks, fresh ginger slices, and star anise.
Step 2:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, clove-studded apples, cinnamon sticks, fresh ginger slices, star anise, and freshly grated nutmeg. If using, add the optional brown sugar now.
Step 3:
- Place the pot over medium-low heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Do not allow it to boil, as this can diminish the delicate flavors. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes, or up to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more robust the taste.
Step 4:
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the clove-studded apples, cinnamon sticks, ginger slices, and star anise from the pot before serving. Ladle the warm wassail into heatproof mugs. Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice and a few cranberries, if desired.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
Note: These values are per serving and are approximate.| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 142kcal |
| Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Sugar | 28g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 13mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the core ingredients in wassail?
Wassail traditionally features a base of apple cider, often combined with citrus juices like orange and lemon. It’s heavily spiced with warming ingredients such as cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, fresh ginger, star anise, and nutmeg. Sweeteners like brown sugar are often added to taste.
What’s the difference between wassail and mulled cider?
While very similar and often used interchangeably today, wassail historically refers to a specific Anglo-Saxon tradition and its associated spiced drink, often made with baked apples. Mulled cider is a broader term for spiced apple cider, without the same deep traditional roots or specific ceremonial context. Both offer delicious warm, spiced flavors, but wassail carries a richer cultural heritage.
What alcohol is best to use in wassail?
For an alcoholic kick, popular additions include brandy, bourbon, or dark rum. Brandy offers a fruity warmth, bourbon adds notes of oak and vanilla, and dark rum provides a rich, molasses-like sweetness. You can also experiment with a spiced rum or even a dry white wine for a lighter touch. Always add alcohol at the serving stage, or after the Wassail has simmered, to prevent it from evaporating.
