Wassail traces its roots back to medieval England, where villagers would go “wassailing”—visiting neighbors and orchards to sing, offer good cheer, and share a hot spiced cider as a symbol of health and prosperity. The word “wassail” itself comes from the Old English phrase “waes hael,” meaning “be well.” Over time, this comforting drink became a cherished holiday tradition, often served at Christmas and New Year’s celebrations to warm the spirit and bring people together during the coldest months of the year.
Ingredients
- 2 whole apples
- 10 cups of apple cider
- 1 can frozen orange juice concentrate
- 10 cinnamon sticks
- 15 whole cloves (or ½ tsp ground cloves)
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Optional (Spiked Version):
- 1 to 1½ cups dark rum, bourbon, or brandy — added after simmering
Instructions
- Stud each apple with whole cloves all around the surface.
- In a large pot, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, add the apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, ground ginger, and nutmeg. Place the clove-studded apples in the mixture.
- Simmer:
- Stovetop: Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat and let it cook for 45–60 minutes.
- Slow Cooker: Heat on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1–2 hours.
- Instant Pot: Select “Slow Cook” mode and set for 2 hours, or “Keep Warm” for gentle simmering.
- Stovetop: Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat and let it cook for 45–60 minutes.
- Remove the apples and cinnamon sticks. For an adult twist, stir in your chosen spirit (rum, brandy, or bourbon) just before serving—do not add alcohol before simmering.
- Ladle into mugs and enjoy warm. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, orange slice, or star anise if desired.