Maryann Sawyer'S Wassail
A warm, spiced wassail perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings. Rich with apple cider, citrus, and fragrant spices like cloves, allspice, and nutmeg, it offers a comforting, aromatic beverage that is sure to delight guests of all ages and create festive cheer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients except spices in a large kettle.
- Tie cloves and allspice in a cheesecloth bag (add cinnamon sticks if not using individual sticks in cups).
- Add the spice bag and ground nutmeg to the liquid.
- Simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.
- Remove the spice bag; serve with individual cinnamon sticks, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavors of Maryann Sawyer's Wassail, consider using fresh citrus zest from the lemons and oranges to add brightness. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the brown sugar or substitute with honey or maple syrup. Feel free to experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique twist. Additionally, you can use store-bought apple cider to save time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Maryann Sawyer's Wassail warm in mugs, garnished with individual cinnamon sticks for a festive touch. It pairs beautifully with Fresh Apple Pie for a delightful dessert combo. Consider offering a plate of Graham Bread on the side, as its texture complements the warm drink well. This beverage is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you prefer to use a microwave, heat in a microwave-safe container in 1-minute intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maryann Sawyer'S Wassail contains roughly 2688 calories, with 34g protein, 672g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (427% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (298% of the Daily Value), and iron (210% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 120g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Wassail a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe, then let it cool before transferring it to a container. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This can enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! The original recipe is already non-alcoholic, making it a great choice for all ages. If you want to add a kick for adults, consider offering spiced rum or bourbon on the side, allowing guests to customize their drinks.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the Wassail?
If you find the Wassail too sweet, you can reduce the brown sugar or use unsweetened apple cider. Adding more citrus juice, like lemon or lime, can also balance the sweetness. Taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor.
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).