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Christmas Wassail Apple Cider pinterest

Christmas Wassail Apple Cider

This warm holiday beverage combines fresh apple cider, cranberry juice, and traditional spices for a festive drink that fills your home with wonderful aromas. Dating back centuries, this modern wassail version delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice for any winter gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Extended Simmer (Optional) 4 hours
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine American, Holiday
Servings 8 cups
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Slow Cooker
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Heat-proof Mugs

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients

  • 8 cups fresh apple cider unfiltered works best for a richer flavor
  • 2 cups cranberry juice 100% juice preferred
  • 1/4 cup honey maple syrup works as a vegan alternative

Spices

  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tbsp whole cloves
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
  • 2 inch fresh ginger sliced

Fruit

  • 1 orange sliced into rounds
  • 1 apple sliced into thin rounds

Optional

  • 1 cup bourbon or spiced rum for adults

Instructions
 

  • Add the apple cider and cranberry juice to a large pot or slow cooker. Keep the heat at medium-low – never allow the mixture to boil as this can cause the natural sugars to caramelize and create a bitter taste.
  • Stir in the honey until completely dissolved. Then add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise pods, grated nutmeg, and ginger slices.
  • Add the orange and apple slices to the mixture. Position them to float on top for a beautiful visual presentation.
  • Reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30-40 minutes, though a longer simmer (2-3 hours) will develop a more complex flavor profile. Keep the pot uncovered to allow your home to fill with the wonderful holiday aroma.
  • Remove the whole spices with a slotted spoon before serving. Ladle the hot wassail into heatproof mugs and garnish with fresh orange slices, apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or star anise.
  • If adding alcohol, stir in just before serving rather than during the simmering process to preserve the delicate flavors.

Notes

For a diabetic-friendly version, use sugar-free cranberry juice and replace honey with monk fruit sweetener or stevia.
This wassail often tastes even better the day after preparation as flavors continue to meld overnight.
The mixture should never exceed 175°F (80°C) to preserve delicate flavors.
Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 30gSodium: 15mgPotassium: 195mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 24gVitamin C: 35mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword Wassail, Apple Cider, Christmas Drink, Holiday Beverage, Mulled Cider
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