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Cozy Wassail Recipe: A Traditional Holiday Drink

calendar_today December 28, 2025 schedule 1 min read

timer

Prep

5 minutes

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Cook

30 minutes

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Servings

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Calories

142 kcal

A traditional spiced cider drink perfect for the holidays.

restaurant_menu Ingredients format_list_numbered Instructions

restaurant_menu Ingredients

Servings

Ingredients

check 2 apples check 8 cups apple cider check 2 cups orange juice check 1/3 cup lemon juice check 4 cinnamon sticks check 15 whole cloves (or ½ tsp ground cloves) check 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger check 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg check 1 Tablespoon light brown sugar (optional)

hardware Essential Tools

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Large pot or Dutch oven, slow cooker (optional), ladle, mugs

format_list_numbered Preparation

Instructions

Poke the whole cloves into the apples on all sides.

Add all of the ingredients, including the apples, to a large pot over medium low heat.

Bring to a simmer. Simmer for 30-45 minutes.

Remove the apples and whole cloves. Ladle into mugs and enjoy!

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Try These Variations

Cranberry Wassail Add 1 cup of cranberry juice to the recipe for a tart and festive flavor.

Spiced Rum Wassail Add 1/2 cup of spiced rum after simmering for a boozy kick.

Gingerbread Wassail Add 1 teaspoon of gingerbread spice to the recipe for a warm and comforting taste.

Chef's Pro Tips

Use fresh, high-quality apple cider for the best flavor.

Don’t over-simmer the wassail, as it can become bitter.

Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less brown sugar.

Storage Guide

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Store leftover wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Avoid These Mistakes

✕ Using old or stale spices.

✕ Over-simmering the wassail.

✕ Not adjusting the sweetness to your liking.

nutrition Nutrition Facts

Per serving: 1 cup

142kcal Calories

35g Carbohydrates

1g Protein

1g Fat

0.1g Saturated Fat

0.2g Polyunsaturated Fat

0.1g Monounsaturated Fat

0.004g Trans Fat

13mg Sodium

361mg Potassium

3g Fiber

28g Sugar

128IU Vitamin A

31mg Vitamin C

48mg Calcium

1mg Iron

Nutritional values are approximate.

flag Conclusion

This Wassail recipe is a comforting and delicious way to celebrate the holidays. Enjoy this traditional drink with friends and family!

sell Related Topics

#holiday drinks #spiced cider #christmas drinks #winter beverages

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ingredients of wassail? expand_more

Traditional wassail includes apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg. Some variations may include other fruits or spices.

What's the difference between apple cider and wassail? expand_more

Apple cider is simply pressed apples, while wassail is apple cider that has been spiced and simmered with other ingredients like citrus and spices.

What is traditional English wassail? expand_more

Traditional English wassail is a hot, mulled cider drink often associated with Yuletide celebrations. It often includes roasted apples and spices.

What is a wassail? expand_more

A wassail is a hot, spiced cider drink traditionally consumed during the winter holidays. It symbolizes good health and prosperity.