Easy Wassail
A warm, flavorful wassail perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring aromatic spices, tangy citrus, and a hint of vodka for a festive kick. This comforting beverage combines sweet and spicy notes, making it ideal for celebrating with friends and family during the colder months.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stick cloves around the middle of the oranges about 1 inch apart, then several close together at the stem and bottom ends.
- Bake the oranges, uncovered, in a shallow pan for 30 minutes at 350°F.
- Remove the oranges from the oven.
- Combine Tang, water, apple cider, and cinnamon sticks in a large saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of cranberry juice or using spiced rum instead of vodka. If you're short on time, you can skip baking the oranges and simply stud them with cloves before adding to the pot. This recipe is adaptable; feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits or spices to suit your taste. Also, for a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka with additional apple cider.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Wassail warm in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for a festive touch. It pairs beautifully with holiday treats such as cookies or pastries. Consider serving alongside Tropical Apple Slaw for a refreshing contrast. This drink is perfect for gatherings, making it an ideal choice for parties or cozy evenings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover wassail can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, pour the wassail into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat until steaming, or use a microwave-safe container to heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Wassail contains roughly 1033 calories, with 10g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this wassail ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the wassail a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the simmering step, allow it to cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit more water if it thickens.
Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a non-alcoholic wassail, simply omit the vodka and replace it with additional apple cider or a mix of apple cider and sparkling water for some fizz. You'll still enjoy the delightful flavors of the spices and fruits.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the wassail?
Yes, you can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more Tang or a couple of tablespoons of honey or sugar. Taste as you go to ensure you achieve your desired level of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).