Wassail(A Good Christmas Or New Year'S Drink.)
Warm, spiced wassail combines apple cider, fruit juices, cinnamon, and cloves, creating a festive beverage perfect for Christmas or New Year's celebrations, enjoyed hot with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot.
- Simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or rum. If you want to reduce sugar, opt for unsweetened apple cider or use a sugar substitute. You can also replace the apricot nectar with peach nectar if desired. To enhance the spices, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. Serve with Potato Lefsa for a delightful pairing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the wassail in mugs or heatproof glasses, garnished with a cinnamon stick for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with sweet treats like cookies or holiday pastries. Consider serving alongside Molded Cranberry-Cabbage Salad for a festive spread. This drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pour the wassail back into a pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling it to maintain the flavors. You can also reheat in the microwave in individual servings, taking care not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wassail(A Good Christmas Or New Year'S Drink.) contains roughly 491 calories, with 6g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (209% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 10g 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 wassail ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare wassail a day in advance. Simply simmer the ingredients and let it cool before refrigerating. Reheat before serving. This allows the flavors to develop further, making it even more delicious.
Can I use fresh juices instead of canned?
Absolutely! Freshly squeezed juices will provide a vibrant flavor and can be used in place of canned juices. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste since fresh juices can vary in sweetness.
Is it possible to make wassail non-alcoholic?
Yes, wassail is inherently non-alcoholic with the provided recipe. However, if you want to create an adult version, you can add a splash of your favorite liquor, such as bourbon or rum, at serving time.
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).