Wassail(Good Hot Punch For Holidays.)
A warm, spiced holiday punch with orange, lemon, and apple cider flavors, perfect for festive gatherings and cozy evenings around the fire.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and water in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Boil for 10 minutes, then add whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, and candied ginger.
- Cover and let stand in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Strain the mixture to remove spices and ginger.
- Add orange juice, lemon juice, and apple cider to the strained mixture.
- Serve warm and keep warm in a crock-pot if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh ginger instead of candied ginger. You can also substitute the apple cider with pear cider for a different twist. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar to taste. Adding a splash of brandy or rum can elevate the warmth of this wassail, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this wassail in heatproof mugs or cups, garnished with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. It pairs beautifully with Sweet Crisp Pickles or Raw Carrot Salad for a refreshing contrast. This drink is ideal for holiday parties, cozy gatherings, or simply to warm up on a chilly evening.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour it into a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a crock-pot on low for an hour, which will keep it warm for serving at parties.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wassail(Good Hot Punch For Holidays.) contains roughly 763 calories, with 13g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (203% of the Daily Value), iron (110% of the Daily Value), and calcium (86% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 617mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 in advance?
Yes, you can make wassail a day ahead. Prepare the base and refrigerate it after straining out the spices. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in a crock-pot, adding the juices just before serving for the freshest taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this wassail recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. You can enjoy it guilt-free during the holidays or any time you want a comforting drink.
What can I serve with wassail?
Wassail pairs well with a variety of snacks and appetizers. Consider serving it alongside Marinated Coleslaw (A Make-Ahead Salad For Quick Meals) or simple cookies. These options will complement the drink's warm spices and fruity flavors nicely.
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).