Holiday Hot Wassail
A warm, spiced holiday beverage featuring cranberry and apple juices infused with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice—perfect for festive gatherings and winter cheer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cranberry juice and apple juice in a large electric percolator.
- Put the spices in the basket of the percolator.
- Perk and serve the hot wassail.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding orange slices or a splash of brandy to your wassail. If you don't have whole cloves, ground cloves can be used, just reduce the amount to 1/2 teaspoon. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your preference. This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings, making it perfect for holiday parties or cozy get-togethers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a slice of fresh apple for a festive touch. This drink pairs beautifully with hearty appetizers like Toby'S Famous Onion Rings or sweet treats such as Suzy'S Pear Cobbler. It's a delightful addition to any holiday spread or gathering with friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour it into a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Avoid boiling to retain the spices' flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Hot Wassail contains roughly 696 calories, with 3g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the wassail a day in advance. Simply combine all ingredients in the percolator and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat it in the percolator or on the stovetop until hot. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Holiday Hot Wassail is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. The juices and spices are plant-based, making it a great choice for vegan recipes during the holiday season. Just ensure that the apple juice is 100% juice without any added ingredients.
Can I use different juices in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cranberry and apple juices are traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like pomegranate or grape juice for a unique twist. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain the overall balance of flavors in your wassail.
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).