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Wassail

Wassail is a warm, spiced apple cider punch that transforms any gathering into something special.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 810 people
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American holiday
Calories: 95
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 quarts apple cider
  • 2 cups cranberry juice
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 8 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 6 whole star anise
  • 4 whole allspice berries
  • 1 large orange sliced into thin rings
  • 2 tablespoons honey optional, for extra sweetness
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Equipment

  • Large stainless steel pot (at least 6 quarts)
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Sharp knife for slicing citrus
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional but helpful)
  • Ladle for serving
  • Mugs or heat-safe serving cups

Method
 

  1. Measure out all your whole spices before starting.
  2. Pour the apple cider, cranberry juice, and orange juice into your large pot.
  3. Cut one large orange into thin rings using a sharp knife.
  4. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
  5. Once the liquid is steaming, add all the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and allspice berries.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the wassail simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes.
  7. When the spices have steeped for about 20 minutes, add the orange slices to the pot.
  8. Remove the pot from heat and taste the wassail.
  9. Pour the wassail into mugs using a ladle.

Notes

Serve with simple cookies or small cakes for a cozy experience.