Wassail(Club Member: Kristi Mayfield)

Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

A warm, spiced apple cider beverage infused with cinnamon, cloves, and orange, perfect for festive gatherings and cozy winter evenings.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 qt. apple cider
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1/2 c. brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp. whole cloves
  • dash of nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1 medium orange, cut in wedges with peel

Instructions

  1. Pour apple cider into the lower part of a 12-cup electric coffee maker.
  2. Place the basket in the coffee maker and put all remaining ingredients in the basket.
  3. Cover and perk until heated through and flavors meld.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or rum to the wassail. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can substitute the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. Whole cloves can be replaced with ground cloves if needed, but use less as ground spices are more potent. Fresh ginger can also add a lovely warmth to the mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the wassail hot in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for a festive touch. It pairs beautifully with Gramma'S Elderberry Pie and can be a delightful addition to holiday gatherings. Consider setting up a wassail station with optional toppings like additional spices or fruit slices for guests to customize their drinks.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour into a saucepan and warm over medium heat until steaming. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the flavors. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Wassail(Club Member: Kristi Mayfield) contains roughly 249 calories, with 2g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1759mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).

249 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 9.3g 12% DV
Carbs 42.4g 15% DV
Fiber 5.3g 19% DV
Sugar 30.2g 60% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1759.3mg 76% DV
Potassium 133.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.4mcg
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Calcium 75.2mg 6% DV
Iron 1mg 6% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

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 follow the recipe, let it cool, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. This allows the flavors to meld even more, creating a richer taste.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This wassail recipe is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans. The ingredients are all natural, ensuring a delicious drink that everyone can enjoy during festive occasions.

How can I adjust the spice levels in the wassail?

You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of whole cloves or omit them entirely. For a spicier kick, add extra cinnamon or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →