Description
Warm and inviting, this spiced Wassail combines apple cider, citrus juices, and aromatic spices, making it the perfect drink for chilly evenings and festive gatherings. Enjoy a seasonal favorite thats sure to delight!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon whole allspice
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 cup brandy (optional)
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- In a large pot, pour in the gallon of apple cider.
- Add the cup of orange juice and the cup of cranberry juice to the pot.
- Stir in the cup of brown sugar until fully dissolved.
- Toss in the whole cloves, whole allspice, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the sliced orange and lemon to the mixture.
- Pour in the cup of water to help dilute the mixture slightly.
- Place the pot on the stove over medium heat and allow it to come to a gentle simmer.
- Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes (up to an hour for deeper flavors), stirring occasionally.
- If using brandy, add it during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- After simmering, strain the wassail through a fine-mesh sieve into a large serving bowl or pitcher.
- To keep warm for a gathering, transfer to a slow cooker set on low.
- Serve in mugs or heatproof glasses, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange.
Notes
- Customize your wassail by experimenting with different fruit juices or adding more spices for a bolder flavor.
- For leftovers, cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Wassail is perfect for any occasion, not just the holidays!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes