Wassail(English Holiday Drink)
A warm, spiced holiday drink with apple cider, orange and lemon juices, aromatic spices, and fresh apple slices, perfect for festive gatherings and cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart casserole, combine cider, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, orange juice, lemon juice, sugar, and apples.
- Microwave on High (10) for 15 to 18 minutes, until hot.
- Strain and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier wassail, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or a few extra cinnamon sticks. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup or use honey as a substitute. To enhance flavor, try using freshly squeezed orange juice instead of bottled. For a non-alcoholic version, ensure all ingredients are labeled as vegan, especially the sugar used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the wassail warm in mugs, garnished with additional apple slices or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. This drink pairs beautifully with Roasted Sweet Onions And Carrots With Pecans, making it a delightful accompaniment to any holiday meal. Consider offering it alongside holiday cookies or as a warming drink at winter gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour the wassail into a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, being careful not to boil it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wassail(English Holiday Drink) contains roughly 236 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 24g 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 follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. This allows the flavors to meld even more, resulting in a richer taste.
Is there an alcoholic version of wassail?
Absolutely! For an adult twist, add a cup of brandy, rum, or bourbon to the wassail after it has been heated. This addition complements the spices and enhances the warmth of the drink, making it perfect for holiday parties.
Can I use a different type of juice?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different juices! Cranberry juice or apple-pomegranate juice can add a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall sweetness of the wassail, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
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).