This traditional British wassail transforms simple apple cider into a luxurious, aromatic beverage. By simmering the cider with brown sugar, frozen lemon juice, and a bundle of warm spices like cloves, allspice, and nutmeg, you create a drink that is both sweet and tangy. The gentle simmering process allows the spices to infuse deeply without overpowering the natural fruit flavor. It is an ideal comfort drink for chilly autumn days or festive winter holidays. The addition of cinnamon sticks for serving adds a visual appeal and allows guests to stir in extra spice to their liking. This recipe is straightforward yet delivers a sophisticated flavor profile that feels homemade and heartfelt, making it a perfect centerpiece for any seasonal gathering or quiet night in.
Wassail * Cider
Description
This traditional British wassail transforms simple apple cider into a luxurious, aromatic beverage. By simmering the cider with brown sugar, frozen lemon juice, and a bundle of warm spices like cloves, allspice, and nutmeg, you create a drink that is both sweet and tangy. The gentle simmering process allows the spices to infuse deeply without overpowering the natural fruit flavor. It is an ideal comfort drink for chilly autumn days or festive winter holidays. The addition of cinnamon sticks for serving adds a visual appeal and allows guests to stir in extra spice to their liking. This recipe is straightforward yet delivers a sophisticated flavor profile that feels homemade and heartfelt, making it a perfect centerpiece for any seasonal gathering or quiet night in.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large pot, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, and frozen lemon juice concentrate.
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Place the whole cloves and ground allspice into a piece of cheesecloth and tie it securely to form a spice bag.
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Add the spice bag and ground nutmeg to the cider mixture in the pot.
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Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Remove the pot from heat and discard the spice bag.
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Ladle the hot wassail into mugs and place one cinnamon stick in each mug for serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 30
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 176.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 14.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 43.7g15%
- Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
- Sugars 36.7g
- Protein 0.1g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best flavor, use unpasteurized apple cider if available, but pasteurized works well too.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to taste.
If you prefer a stronger spice kick, you can leave the cinnamon sticks in the pot during simmering, but be sure to remove them before serving to avoid burning the throat with concentrated spice.
This drink can be made in advance and reheated gently on the stove or in a slow cooker.
For an alcoholic version, you can add a splash of brandy or rum after removing from heat.
