Wassailis a flavorful drink that includes apple cider, orange juice, lemonade, and a variety of warm, rich spices! Perfect for a holiday gathering or party, this drink has been part of tradition for centuries.

Once you have a sip of wassail, you will never forget how it tastes! The amazing combination of tangy juice and warm spices is a unique and memorable flavor. Many people think it is hard to make wassail, but all you really need is a few ingredients and some time. Allowing the wassail time to sit and incorporate all the flavors is key in achieving the right taste.

I love this recipe because itcan be doubledif you are expecting a crowd, or adjusted to fit a smaller group of people. Wassail pairs great with my favoritecinnamon rollsor theseeasy ginger snap cookies. It would also taste great served alongsidepumpkin bread with chocolate chips. You can never go back after making wassail, I am sure this tasty drink will become one of your new favorite traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It has a sense of pure tradition that makes it a go-to drink at many holiday parties!
The warm and rich spices perfectly contrast the bright and tangy flavors of the juice.
It will leave your house smelling like the joy that comes from the fall and winter seasons.

Recipe Ingredients

Orange juice—To balance the flavor of the spice blend and warmth from the cider.
Apple cider—One of the most classic ingredients in wassail!
Lemonade—For an extra tangy twist.
Cinnamon sticks—To add a warmth that compliments the citrus flavors.
Spice Mix—A warm blend of cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to Make Wassail

Combining all of the wassail ingredients into a pot.

Step #1.Combine all of the ingredients together in a large pot, and use a wooden spoon to stir until combined.

Step #2.Cover the wassail with a lid and allow it to heat on the stove until warm throughout. Remove the cinnamon sticks from the liquid and give it another stir.

Recipe FAQs

What makes wassail unique?

Wassail dates back centuries to areas of Europe where people who lived near apple orchards would use the apples to create a spice-filled cider which they would carry around while caroling! ‘Wassailing’ is an old term that implies the act of singing and celebrating during the holiday season, and it wouldn’t be complete without this warm drink. The reason this drink is so unique is because of these deep roots and the fun, lively tradition that still continues today. There are different variations of this drink, but the spirit of wassail lives on!

Are wassail and mulled wine the same thing?

No, although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are two different drinks. They have similar ingredients but can hold their own in the flavor category. Wassail is cider based and includes sugar, spices, sometimes cranberries, and is filled with other tangy juice such as lemonade or orange juice. Mulled wine does typically contain wine, spices, and whole oranges that sit in the drink and add their own flavor. These two drinks are similar and have long since been popular choices around the holidays, but it’s helpful to understand the small differences they have.

Glasses of wassail with cinnamon sticks.

Expert Tips

You can usually find apple cider year round at most major grocery stores.It should be in the juice aisle or the deli section.
The longer the wassail sits with all of the spices, the richer and deeper your flavor will be, soyou might want to make it a few hours ahead of time.
You can serve wassail cold or hot, and either way you will still get the tangy, bright, and bold flavor of each ingredient.
We like to use acombination of whole and ground spicesto really infuse the wassail, but you are more than welcome to use all ground or all whole spices.

How to Make Wassail in a Slow Cooker

A wonderful way to keep your wassail warm and easily accessible is to make it in your slow cooker. This will allow you to leave it alone for a few hours, and come back to a perfectly spiced cider ready for your party or gathering. The instructions are simple!

Combine all of your ingredients into your slow cooker and give it a quick stir.
Cook on low for 2 or 2 ½ hours until the drink is aromatic.
Leave the wassail in the slow cooker to say nice and warm, serve and enjoy!

How to Store Wassail

Wassail can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Pour the drink into an airtight pitcher or Rubbermaid container to keep it fresh, then serve it hot or cold! This festive drink can also be stored in the freezer if you have a large batch or want to make it ahead of time. Simply pour it into ziploc bags or containers, ensuring there is an inch or two of space at the top and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat the wassail on the stovetop or in a slow cooker when you are ready to enjoy it again!

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