Wassail(Hot Cider Drink)
Warm and spiced, this hot cider drink combines apple, orange, and cranberry flavors with aromatic spices, perfect for festive gatherings and cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stick whole cloves into the small orange.
- Mix all ingredients together in a crock-pot and place the orange in the mixture.
- Add the cinnamon sticks to the mixture.
- Cook on high for 1 hour, then simmer for 6 to 8 hours.
- Remove the orange and spices before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh-squeezed juices instead of store-bought. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup or use honey as a substitute. Whole cloves can also be added for extra warmth. Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. This wassail pairs beautifully with American recipes like Baked Chicken And Pineapple.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the wassail warm in mugs, garnished with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. It makes a delightful drink for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings. Pair it with snacks like spiced nuts or sweet treats, such as Pumpkin Pie Pudding, for a complete experience.
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 over low heat until steaming, or use a microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Avoid boiling to preserve flavor and spices.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wassail(Hot Cider Drink) contains roughly 771 calories, with 10g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 12g 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the wassail a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove or in a slow cooker before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is it possible to make wassail non-alcoholic?
Yes, this wassail recipe is already non-alcoholic! It uses apple cider and juices for flavor. However, if you want to add a splash of spirit, consider adding rum or bourbon to individual servings instead of the whole batch.
Can I substitute the apple cider with something else?
Certainly! If you want a different flavor profile, you can use pear cider or a mix of apple and pear juice. Just keep in mind that this will change the overall taste, but it can be delicious. Experiment to find your perfect blend!
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).