Traditional Homemade Wassail Recipe

What Do I Need to Make Wassail?

No fancy ingredients are needed here; instead, let your spice rack do the heavy lifting! After all, who knew that just a few spices and a blend of fruit juices could create such a hearty, flavorful drink? Plus, you’ll love having it to sip on a cold day. Check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

Apple Cider: Apple juice can also be used, but I prefer using cider for a more complex flavor. Not to mention, its smooth, thick consistency tastes great as a warm drink! Orange Juice: Citrus helps to balance out the flavors in the drink. Pineapple Juice: I like adding pineapple juice for extra fruity flavor! Whole Cloves: Add a warm, sweet spice to your wassail. Cinnamon Sticks: No holiday recipe is complete without a little cinnamon! Star Anise: Anise has a sweet, licorice flavor that tastes amazing combined with the other flavors in this drink. Nutmeg: For tasty, nutty warmth! Cranberries: Not only are they beautiful and festive, but cranberries also help infuse tart flavor into your wassail. Sliced Oranges and Apples: Adding some sliced orange and apple pieces is the cherry on top! It adds to the presentation and gives your drink more flavor.

Homemade Hot Wassail Recipe

This traditional wassail recipe is the easiest thing to throw together! You can impress your guests with minimal effort. Just make sure you have plenty of time to simmer so the flavors can infuse!

Using High-Quality Juices: For best results, use apple cider, orange, and pineapple juice that is not from concentrate! The fresher these juices are, the better your wassail will be! Adding Froth: One way to increase the coziness of this drink is by adding a sweet egg froth! I know it may sound weird, but imagine eggnog-level creaminess. To do this, separate egg whites and yolks. Beat your egg whites until you reach stiff peaks. In another bowl, beat your egg yolks until frothy and bubbly, then blend together with the egg white mixture. Add very slowly to your wassail, mixing constantly to keep the eggs from scrambling. If done properly, you’ll be left with a creamy, tempered foam on the top of your drink that tastes AMAZING! Make it Boozy: Looking to add a little more cheer? You can make a boozy version of this drink by adding brandy, whiskey, rum, bourbon or hard cider to your wassail. Just make sure you’re not cooking it on too high of heat to keep the alcohol from burning off.

In the Refrigerator: Store leftover wassail in a pitcher for up to 5 days. Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat the wassail over the stove on medium heat until it is simmering.