Wassail Drink Holiday: A Festive Guide to the Perfect Wassail

Wassail drink holiday season just got a whole lot cozier! Imagine the aroma of warm spices filling your home, a comforting sweetness dancing on your tongue, and the joyful feeling of sharing a centuries-old tradition with loved ones. That’s the magic of Wassail, and I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipe with you.

Wassail, derived from the Old Norse “ves heill” meaning “be in good health,” is more than just a beverage; it’s a symbol of goodwill and festive cheer. Historically, Wassail was part of a medieval Yuletide tradition, where villagers would go door-to-door, offering a spiced ale drink in exchange for blessings and good fortune. This practice evolved into the warm, spiced cider we know and love today, a staple at holiday gatherings.

What makes a good Wassail drink holiday recipe so irresistible? It’s the perfect blend of sweet and tart, the warming spices that evoke feelings of nostalgia, and the sheer ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a grand Christmas feast or simply curling up by the fire on a chilly evening, a steaming mug of Wassail is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to any occasion. The combination of apple cider, citrus fruits, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and invigorating. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it to your liking by adding different fruits, spices, or even a splash of your favorite spirit. So, let’s dive in and create some holiday magic with this timeless classic!

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 (750 ml) bottle dry red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup brandy (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 2 oranges, studded with cloves
• 2 apples, cored and sliced
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (yes, more cloves!)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Star anise for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Fruit and Spices:

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is prepare our fruit and spices. This is where the magic happens, and the wonderful aromas start to fill your kitchen.

1. Stud the Oranges: Take your two oranges and, using a toothpick or small knife, poke holes all over the surface. Insert whole cloves into each hole. Don’t be shy – the more cloves, the more fragrant and flavorful your wassail will be. I usually aim for about 15-20 cloves per orange. This step is crucial for releasing the essential oils from the cloves, which contribute significantly to the wassail’s characteristic warm and spicy flavor.
2. Slice the Apples: Core your two apples and slice them into rounds or wedges. I prefer wedges because they hold their shape better during the simmering process. You can use any type of apple you like, but I find that a combination of sweet and tart apples works best. Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are my go-to choices. The apples will soften and release their natural sweetness into the wassail, adding another layer of flavor.
3. Gather Your Spices: Make sure you have all your spices measured out and ready to go. This includes the cinnamon sticks, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, and ground cloves. I like to use fresh spices whenever possible, as they have a more potent flavor. If your spices have been sitting in your pantry for a while, it might be a good idea to replace them before making your wassail.

Simmering the Wassail:

Now for the fun part – simmering the wassail! This is where all the flavors meld together and create that cozy, comforting drink we all love.

1. Combine Ingredients in a Large Pot: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the apple cider, red wine, orange juice, lemon juice, brandy (if using), studded oranges, sliced apples, cinnamon sticks, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, and ground cloves. Make sure your pot is large enough to hold all the ingredients without overflowing. A 6-quart or larger pot should work well.
2. Bring to a Simmer: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You don’t want it to boil, just a gentle simmer with small bubbles rising to the surface. Boiling can cause the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to become bitter.
3. Simmer for at Least 1 Hour: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the wassail for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and the more flavorful your wassail will be. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure that the fruit and spices are evenly distributed. I usually simmer mine for about 2 hours for the perfect balance of flavors.
4. Taste and Adjust Sweetness: After simmering for at least an hour, taste the wassail and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If it’s not sweet enough, add honey or maple syrup, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired level of sweetness. Keep in mind that the sweetness will intensify as the wassail simmers, so don’t overdo it at first.
5. Remove from Heat: Once you’re happy with the flavor, remove the pot from the heat.

Serving the Wassail:

Almost there! Now it’s time to serve your delicious homemade wassail and enjoy the warmth and cheer it brings.

1. Strain the Wassail (Optional): If you prefer a smoother wassail without any fruit or spices, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. This will remove the solids and leave you with a clear, flavorful liquid. However, I personally like to leave the fruit and spices in for added texture and visual appeal.
2. Serve Warm: Ladle the wassail into mugs or heat-safe glasses. Be sure to include some of the spiced apples and oranges in each serving.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish each mug with a star anise or a cinnamon stick for an extra touch of festive flair. You can also add a slice of orange or apple to the rim of the mug.
4. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, spicy, and comforting flavors of your homemade wassail. This is the perfect drink to share with friends and family during the holiday season.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your wassail? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Type of Wine: While I recommend a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, you can experiment with other types of wine. A Pinot Noir would also work well, or even a dry white wine like Chardonnay. Just be sure to choose a wine that you enjoy drinking on its own, as its flavor will be prominent in the wassail.
• Type of Cider: You can use regular apple cider or hard apple cider for a boozier version. If using hard cider, reduce the amount of red wine accordingly.
• Add Other Fruits: Feel free to add other fruits to your wassail, such as cranberries, pears, or plums. These fruits will add different flavors and textures to the drink.
• Spice it Up: If you like a spicier wassail, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh ginger to the pot.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: To make a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the red wine and brandy. You can replace the red wine with more apple cider or grape juice.
• Slow Cooker Wassail: You can also make wassail in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
• Make Ahead: Wassail can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Why This Recipe Works:

This wassail recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly delicious. The combination of apple cider, red wine, orange juice, and spices creates a warm and inviting flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season. The studded oranges and sliced apples add a touch of elegance and visual appeal. And the optional brandy adds an extra kick of warmth and flavor.

The key to a great wassail is to simmer it for a long enough time to allow the flavors to meld together. This allows the spices to infuse the liquid and the fruit to release its natural sweetness. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and fruits to create your own unique version of wassail.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a family favorite that we make every year during the holidays. Cheers to warm drinks and happy memories!

Serving Suggestions:

Wassail is the perfect drink to serve at holiday parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in front of the fireplace. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve with Holiday Cookies: Pair your wassail with a plate of freshly baked holiday cookies, such as gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies, or shortbread.
• Serve with Cheese and Crackers: Wassail also pairs well with cheese and crackers. Try serving it with a selection of cheeses, such as cheddar, brie, and gouda.
• Serve with Appetizers: Serve wassail alongside other appetizers, such as mini quiches, sausage rolls, or spinach dip.
• Serve as a Dessert Drink: Wassail can also be served as a dessert drink after a holiday meal.
• Offer Different Garnishes: Offer a variety of garnishes for your guests to choose from, such as star anise, cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and apple slices.

Storage Instructions:

If you have any leftover wassail, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also freeze wassail for up to 2 months. Thaw

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another holiday drink recipe; it’s an invitation to create warmth, joy, and unforgettable memories. I truly believe this wassail drink holiday recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their festive gatherings or simply cozy up on a chilly evening. The intoxicating aroma alone, a blend of simmering spices and sweet fruit, will transform your home into a haven of holiday cheer. But beyond the delightful scent, the taste is what truly sets this wassail apart. It’s a symphony of flavors, a perfect balance of tartness, sweetness, and spice that dances on your palate. What makes this recipe so special is its incredible versatility. While I’ve shared my go-to version, feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a richer, more decadent experience, try adding a splash of dark rum or brandy just before serving. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a dash of sparkling cider or ginger ale will add a delightful fizz. And for those who love a bit of extra spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh ginger will kick things up a notch. Serving suggestions are endless! Ladle the warm wassail into mugs garnished with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, or star anise for a visually stunning presentation. Pair it with your favorite holiday treats, such as gingerbread cookies, shortbread, or fruitcake, for a truly indulgent experience. It’s also the perfect accompaniment to a festive brunch or a cozy evening by the fireplace. Consider serving it in a slow cooker or on a warming tray to keep it at the perfect temperature throughout your gathering. For a fun twist, you can even use it as a base for mulled wine or cider, adding a unique and flavorful dimension to your favorite holiday beverages. But the real magic of this wassail lies in its ability to bring people together. It’s a drink that encourages conversation, laughter, and shared moments of joy. Imagine gathering around a crackling fire with loved ones, mugs of steaming wassail in hand, sharing stories and creating memories that will last a lifetime. That’s the true spirit of the holidays, and that’s what this recipe is all about. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the warmth and joy it brings. Don’t be afraid to get creative and personalize it to your own tastes. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear how it turned out, what variations you tried, and what your loved ones thought. Share your photos and stories on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] so we can all celebrate the magic of this wassail drink holiday recipe together. I truly believe that this will become a cherished tradition in your home, a symbol of warmth, love, and the joy of the holiday season. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and let the magic begin! Happy holidays, and happy wassailing! Print