Wassail, the beloved traditional drink of the holiday season, warms hearts and homes with its rich, spiced aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned wassail maker or new to this festive tradition, our roundup of 18 delicious recipes offers something for everyone. From classic versions to creative twists, these recipes promise to fill your gatherings with joy and flavor. Dive in and discover your next favorite wassail recipe today!
Spiced Apple Wassail
Nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming mug of Spiced Apple Wassail on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s holiday party; the aroma alone was enough to make me feel at home. Now, it’s a staple in my winter recipe rotation, and I love experimenting with the spice levels to suit my mood.
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- For the spices:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- For serving:
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider and orange juice over medium heat. Heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate the spices into the liquid.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the wassail simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Tip: Keep the lid on to prevent too much liquid from evaporating.
- After simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to take out the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Tip: If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, you can leave them in a bit longer.
- Ladle the wassail into mugs and garnish each serving with a slice of orange and apple. Tip: For an extra festive touch, add a cinnamon stick to each mug as a stirrer.
Hearty and aromatic, this Spiced Apple Wassail is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy. The orange and apple slices not only add a beautiful presentation but also infuse the drink with a fresh, fruity essence. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy a quiet moment by the fireplace with this comforting beverage.
Traditional English Wassail
How many times have I found myself craving something warm, spicy, and utterly comforting during those chilly evenings? Too many to count, and that’s exactly why Traditional English Wassail has become a staple in my winter recipe rotation. It’s not just a drink; it’s a hug in a mug, steeped in history and flavor.
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- For the spices:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 tsp allspice berries
- For the alcohol (optional):
- 1/2 cup brandy
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider and orange juice over medium heat. Heat until it’s just about to simmer, but don’t let it boil.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and allspice berries to the pot. Tip: Tie the spices in a cheesecloth if you prefer not to strain them out later.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture steep for 20 minutes. This allows the spices to infuse their flavors into the liquid.
- If using, stir in the brandy and heat for another 5 minutes. Tip: Always add alcohol off the heat to preserve its potency.
- Strain the wassail into mugs, discarding the spices. Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each mug with a thin orange slice and a cinnamon stick.
You’ll love the velvety texture and the way the spices dance on your palate, offering warmth with every sip. Serve it at your next gathering with a side of shortbread cookies for dipping, and watch it disappear.
Mulled Cider Wassail
As the chilly evenings start to creep in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug of Mulled Cider Wassail. I remember the first time I tried this spiced cider at a friend’s holiday party; the aroma alone was enough to make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Now, it’s a staple in my winter recipe rotation, and I love experimenting with the spice levels to suit my mood.
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 orange, sliced
- For the spices:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 tsp whole allspice berries
- For the finish:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup bourbon (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider and orange slices over medium heat.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice berries to the pot. Tip: For easier removal, tie the spices in a cheesecloth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it steep for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate flavors.
- Stir in the honey until fully dissolved. Tip: Adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
- If using, add the bourbon and stir gently to combine.
- Remove the pot from the heat and discard the spices and orange slices.
- Ladle the wassail into mugs and serve warm.
Finally, this Mulled Cider Wassail is a symphony of warm spices and sweet apple flavors, with a hint of citrus brightness. I love serving it with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an extra festive touch, or even spiking it with a bit more bourbon for those particularly cold nights.
Orange and Clove Wassail
Cold winter evenings always have me craving something warm and spiced to sip on, and that’s exactly how my love affair with Orange and Clove Wassail began. It’s a tradition in my home to brew a pot whenever the temperature drops, filling the house with its comforting aroma.
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- For the spices:
- 10 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 orange, sliced
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and honey over medium heat. Stir until the honey is completely dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Add the whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, and sliced orange to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, not a boil, to preserve the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the wassail simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the orange slices, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.
- Ladle the wassail into mugs and serve warm. For an extra touch, garnish each mug with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick.
Silky smooth with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this Orange and Clove Wassail is a hug in a mug. Try serving it with a side of shortbread cookies for dipping, and watch how quickly it disappears.
Cranberry Wassail Punch
This time of year always reminds me of cozy gatherings and the warm, spiced aromas that fill the kitchen. Cranberry Wassail Punch is my go-to for bringing a little warmth and cheer to any winter gathering. It’s a delightful blend of tart cranberries and sweet spices that simmers into a comforting beverage perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- For the punch:
- 4 cups cranberry juice
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the cranberry juice, apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Stir in the honey until it’s completely dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, orange slices, and apple slices to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
- Strain the punch to remove the spices and fruit slices, then serve warm.
Velvety smooth with a perfect balance of tart and sweet, this Cranberry Wassail Punch is a hug in a mug. For an extra festive touch, garnish each serving with a fresh cinnamon stick or a slice of orange.
Slow Cooker Wassail
Oh, the cozy aroma of Slow Cooker Wassail filling the house is something I look forward to every winter. It’s my go-to recipe for warming up after a chilly day outside, and I love how it brings everyone together in the kitchen, eager for a sip.
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- For the spices:
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- For the sweetener:
- 1/2 cup honey
Instructions
- Pour the apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice into the slow cooker.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the honey until it’s fully dissolved into the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After cooking, use a fine mesh strainer to remove the whole spices from the wassail. This step ensures a smooth texture.
- Serve the wassail hot, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice for an extra festive touch.
My favorite part about this Slow Cooker Wassail is how the spices and citrus create a perfectly balanced flavor profile—not too sweet, with just the right amount of spice. It’s delightful served in mugs with a cinnamon stick stirrer, making every sip a little celebration.
Non-Alcoholic Wassail
Perfect for those chilly evenings when you’re craving something warm and spicy but want to skip the alcohol, this Non-Alcoholic Wassail is a hug in a mug. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a holiday party and have been tweaking it ever since to suit my taste for a deeper cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- For the spices:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- For serving:
- Orange slices (optional)
- Cinnamon sticks (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg to the pot.
- Heat the mixture until it reaches a gentle simmer, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the wassail steep for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: Covering the pot helps retain the aromatic spices.
- After steeping, remove the pot from the heat and strain the wassail to remove the whole spices. Tip: Use a fine mesh strainer for a clearer beverage.
- Return the strained wassail to the pot and warm it over low heat if needed before serving. Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, a drizzle of honey can be stirred in at this stage.
- Serve the wassail hot, garnished with orange slices and additional cinnamon sticks if desired.
Lusciously aromatic and perfectly spiced, this Non-Alcoholic Wassail fills your kitchen with the scents of the season. The balance of sweet and tart makes it a versatile drink that pairs wonderfully with a slice of gingerbread or a simple sugar cookie for dunking.
Bourbon Spiked Wassail
Last winter, I stumbled upon the most heartwarming drink at a friend’s holiday party, and I knew I had to make it my own. This Bourbon Spiked Wassail is not just a drink; it’s a hug in a mug, perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a little extra warmth.
Ingredients
- For the wassail base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 orange, sliced
- For spiking:
- 1/2 cup bourbon
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the honey from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and strain the mixture to remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices.
- Tip: For a smoother drink, you can strain it through a fine mesh sieve.
- Return the strained wassail to the pot and stir in the bourbon.
- Tip: Adjust the amount of bourbon to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve the wassail warm in mugs, garnished with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch.
My first sip of this Bourbon Spiked Wassail transported me back to that cozy holiday party. The blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, with the smooth kick of bourbon, makes it irresistibly comforting. Try serving it with a side of gingerbread cookies for the ultimate winter treat.
Gingerbread Wassail
Just as the holiday season starts to whisper its arrival, I find myself craving the warm, spiced embrace of Gingerbread Wassail. There’s something about combining the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread with the traditional wassail that feels like a hug in a mug. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s holiday party, and now, it’s a staple in my winter recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- For the wassail base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- For the gingerbread spice mix:
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- For serving:
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- While the juices heat, mix together the ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg in a small bowl.
- Once the juice mixture is warm (about 5 minutes), whisk in the gingerbread spice mix until fully incorporated.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the wassail simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Tip: For a smoother texture, strain the wassail before serving to remove any spice clumps.
- Ladle the hot wassail into mugs and top with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
- Tip: If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, add an extra 1/2 tbsp of ground ginger to the spice mix.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy, spiced aroma that fills the room.
Lusciously creamy with a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, this Gingerbread Wassail is a festive treat that’s sure to warm hearts. For an extra special touch, serve it in clear glass mugs to showcase its rich, inviting color, or add a splash of rum for an adult version that packs a little extra cheer.
Pomegranate Wassail
Last winter, I stumbled upon the most heartwarming drink at a quaint little holiday market, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. This Pomegranate Wassail is not just a drink; it’s a hug in a mug, perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a little extra warmth.
Ingredients
- For the wassail:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups pomegranate juice
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1/2 cup honey
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, pomegranate juice, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, about 10 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat medium to prevent boiling, which can make the flavors too intense.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the honey until fully dissolved.
- Let the wassail steep on low heat for another 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: The longer it steeps, the more pronounced the spices will be, so adjust according to your preference.
- Before serving, remove the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each mug with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick.
The Pomegranate Wassail is beautifully balanced with a tangy sweetness from the pomegranate and a warm spice from the cinnamon and cloves. Serve it in clear mugs to admire its deep ruby color, or add a splash of rum for an adult version that’s sure to impress.
Vanilla Bean Wassail
Believe it or not, the first time I tried Vanilla Bean Wassail was at a cozy winter market, and its warm, spiced aroma instantly won me over. Now, it’s a staple in my holiday gatherings, and I love how the vanilla bean adds a luxurious twist to the traditional wassail.
Ingredients
- For the wassail base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
- For the spices:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and honey over medium heat.
- Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into the pot and add the bean pod for extra flavor.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise to the pot.
- Heat the mixture until it reaches a gentle simmer, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to dissolve the honey.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the wassail steep for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove the vanilla bean pod and spices from the pot before serving.
So, there you have it—a Vanilla Bean Wassail that’s as fragrant as it is flavorful. The vanilla bean lends a creamy texture and depth that’s simply irresistible. Serve it in mugs with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an extra festive touch.
Maple Syrup Wassail
Just when I thought I had tried every cozy winter drink out there, I stumbled upon the Maple Syrup Wassail at a quaint little café in Vermont. It was love at first sip, and I knew I had to bring this warm, spiced delight into my own kitchen. Here’s how I make it, with a few personal tweaks that make it even more special.
Ingredients
- For the base:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- For the spices:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- For serving:
- Orange slices (for garnish)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and maple syrup over medium heat.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise to the pot.
- Heat the mixture until it reaches a gentle simmer, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the maple syrup is fully dissolved.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the wassail steep for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- After steeping, remove the pot from the heat and strain the wassail to remove the whole spices.
- Return the strained wassail to the pot and keep it warm over low heat until ready to serve.
- Ladle the wassail into mugs and garnish each with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
One sip of this Maple Syrup Wassail and you’ll be transported to a snowy evening by the fire. The combination of sweet maple and tangy citrus, with the warmth of spices, creates a drink that’s both comforting and invigorating. Serve it in your favorite mugs with a side of gingerbread cookies for the ultimate winter treat.
Peach Wassail Sangria
Craving something sweet, spicy, and utterly refreshing for those warm summer evenings? I stumbled upon this Peach Wassail Sangria recipe during a weekend getaway in Georgia, where peaches are practically a way of life. It’s become my go-to for impressing guests or just treating myself after a long day.
Ingredients
- For the sangria base:
- 2 cups peach nectar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- For the spice infusion:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- For the fruit mix:
- 2 peaches, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- For the alcohol:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine
- 1/2 cup peach schnapps
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine peach nectar, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey over medium heat. Stir until the honey is completely dissolved, about 3 minutes.
- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to the saucepan. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the spices. Tip: Don’t let it boil to preserve the delicate flavors.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for melding the flavors.
- Once cooled, strain the mixture into a large pitcher to remove the spices.
- Add sliced peaches, orange, and apple to the pitcher.
- Pour in the white wine and peach schnapps. Stir gently to combine. Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine and schnapps with sparkling water and extra peach nectar.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to deepen. Tip: The longer it chills, the better it tastes!
Great for sipping on a sunny afternoon, this Peach Wassail Sangria boasts a perfect balance of sweet fruitiness and warm spices. Serve it over ice with a few extra slices of peach for a beautiful presentation that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
Hot Buttered Wassail
Gathering around the kitchen during the chilly months has always been my favorite way to warm up, and nothing says cozy like a steaming mug of Hot Buttered Wassail. This spiced cider drink, with its rich buttery topping, is a holiday tradition in my home that I love to share with friends and family. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and comforting, making every sip feel like a hug from the inside.
Ingredients
- For the wassail:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- For the butter mixture:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it steep for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the wassail is steeping, in a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground allspice until well combined.
- After the wassail has steeped, remove the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves with a slotted spoon.
- Ladle the hot wassail into mugs, and top each with a dollop of the butter mixture.
- Serve immediately, encouraging everyone to stir the butter into their wassail for a creamy, rich flavor.
Overtime, this Hot Buttered Wassail has become the highlight of our winter gatherings, with its velvety texture and the way the spices dance on your palate. For an extra festive touch, try serving it with a cinnamon stick stirrer or a thin slice of orange floating on top.
Cinnamon Stick Wassail
Every winter, as the chill sets in, I find myself craving the warm, spiced aroma of Cinnamon Stick Wassail wafting through my kitchen. It’s a tradition I’ve cherished since my grandmother first introduced me to this comforting brew, perfect for sipping on a cold evening.
Ingredients
- For the wassail:
- 6 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 10 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 orange, sliced
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and honey over medium heat. Stir until the honey is completely dissolved.
- Add the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves to the pot. Tip: Toasting the cinnamon sticks lightly before adding them can enhance their flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the sliced orange to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Tip: For a stronger citrus flavor, add the orange slices earlier in the process.
- Strain the wassail to remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices before serving. Tip: Keep a few cinnamon sticks aside to use as stirrers for a festive touch.
This Cinnamon Stick Wassail is a symphony of sweet and spicy flavors, with a velvety texture that coats your palate. Serve it in mugs garnished with a fresh cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for an extra special touch.
Caramel Apple Wassail
Venturing into the cozy embrace of autumn, I find myself reaching for recipes that blend warmth with a hint of nostalgia. This Caramel Apple Wassail is my go-to for chilly evenings, a delightful twist on the traditional wassail that combines the tartness of apples with the rich sweetness of caramel. It’s like wrapping yourself in a blanket of flavors, perfect for those moments when you need a little extra comfort.
Ingredients
- For the wassail:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- For serving:
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Additional caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, caramel sauce, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture gently until the caramel sauce is fully dissolved, about 5 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat at medium to prevent the sugars from burning.
- Once dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the wassail simmer for 20 minutes. This allows the spices to infuse the liquid fully. Tip: Cover the pot partially to prevent too much evaporation while still letting some steam escape.
- After simmering, remove the pot from the heat and strain the wassail to remove the whole spices. Tip: Use a fine mesh strainer for a clearer wassail.
- Pour the strained wassail into mugs. If desired, top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Lusciously smooth with a perfect balance of sweet and tart, this Caramel Apple Wassail is a celebration of fall in a mug. Serve it at your next gathering with a side of cinnamon sticks for stirring, or enjoy it solo as a peaceful end to a busy day.
Pear and Cardamom Wassail
On a chilly evening like this, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, spiced drink to wrap your hands around. I remember the first time I tried Pear and Cardamom Wassail at a friend’s holiday party; its aromatic spices and sweet pear flavor instantly won me over. Now, it’s a staple in my winter recipe rotation, perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the wassail:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups pear juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 2 pears, thinly sliced
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, pear juice, honey, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Stir in the cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves until well blended.
- Add the sliced pears to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pear slices if desired, or leave them in for a more pronounced pear flavor.
- Ladle the wassail into mugs, garnishing with a fresh pear slice or a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch.
Best enjoyed hot, this Pear and Cardamom Wassail boasts a velvety texture with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. For an adult version, a splash of bourbon or rum adds a delightful warmth that complements the cardamom beautifully.
Chai Spiced Wassail
Chilly evenings call for something warm and spiced to wrap your hands around, and that’s exactly what this Chai Spiced Wassail is all about. I remember the first time I tried wassail at a friend’s holiday party; the blend of spices and citrus was so comforting, I knew I had to create my own version with a chai twist.
Ingredients
- For the base: 4 cups apple cider, 1 cup orange juice, 2 tbsp lemon juice
- For the spices: 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, 1 tsp whole allspice berries, 1 star anise, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- For serving: Orange slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice over medium heat. Heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, star anise, ground ginger, and ground cardamom to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the wassail simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the liquid. Avoid boiling to keep the flavors bright.
- After simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Use a fine mesh strainer to remove the whole spices from the wassail.
- Return the strained wassail to the pot and keep it warm on the lowest heat setting until ready to serve.
- Ladle the wassail into mugs and garnish each with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
Lusciously spiced and wonderfully aromatic, this Chai Spiced Wassail is a hug in a mug. The blend of chai spices with the traditional wassail base creates a depth of flavor that’s both invigorating and comforting. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy a quiet moment with a mug by the fire.
Conclusion
Ready to warm your heart and home? This roundup of 18 traditional wassail recipes offers a treasure trove of flavors to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, there’s a recipe here to delight your taste buds. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below! And don’t forget to share the joy by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!
