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Slow Cooker Christmas Wassail
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A citrus wassail with light spice flavors. It's made with apple cider, pineapple juice, orange juice, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.
serves/makes:
ready in:
1-2 hrs
1-2 hrs
12 reviews
4 comments
ingredients
1 gallon apple cider
27 whole cloves
8 cinnamon sticks
1 quart pineapple juice
1 can (6 ounce size) frozen orange juice concentrate
directions
Combine all the ingredients in the crock pot. Heat on high heat until the mixture simmers (1-2 hours) or on low heat (3-4 hours, depending on the crock pot).
Remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks before serving. Serve fresh cinnamon sticks as stirrers in individual heat-proof cups.
crock pot notes
Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.recipe tips
Let the wassail simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Try adding slices of ginger or star anise for a different flavor.
Place the spices in piece of cheesecloth (tied with kitchen twine) to make them easier to remove.
common recipe questions
What is wassail?
Wassail is a traditional hot beverage made from a mixture of fruit juices and spices, often served during festive occasions and made popular in winter holidays.
Where is wassail from?
Wassail has its roots in ancient British customs and was originally a type of ale consumed during communal gatherings, later evolving into a spiced cider drink associated with holidays.
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of frozen concentrate?
Because the frozen concentrate is, concentrated, substituting fresh orange juice gets tricky. You could replace the concentrate and pineapple juice with the same amount of fresh orange juice, for a slightly different flavor.
What can I substitute for apple cider?
You can substitute apple cider with apple juice or a mix of apple and pear juice for a different flavor. However, this may make the drink sweeter.
Is there an alcohol version of wassail?
You can add rum, bourbon, or brandy to the wassail for an alcoholic version. Start with a cup of alcohol and adjust to taste.
How do I make wassail on the stovetop?
Combine all ingredients in a large pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it simmers. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes before serving.
Can I make wassail ahead of time?
It can be refrigerated after cooking and reheated before serving.
How long can I store leftover wassail?
You can store any leftover wassail in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Can I freeze wassail?
It is not recommended to freeze wassail due to the citrus juices. Freezing may alter the texture and flavor when thawed.
How do I serve wassail?
Serve wassail hot in heatproof cups or mugs. Garnish with fresh cinnamon sticks and slices of orange or apple, if desired.
What if I can't find whole cloves?
If you can't find whole cloves, you can use ground cloves, but use them sparingly to avoid an overpowering flavor. Technically, about 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves can replace 1 clove but this might be too much for this drink (6 3/4 teaspoons in place of 27 cloves). Start with about 3 teaspoons and add more as needed.
tools needed
Crock Pot: For combining and heating the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together. It can be set to high or low heat depending on the desired cooking time.
Ladle: For stirring the ingredients in the crock pot and serving the wassail once it is ready.
Heat-Proof Cups: For serving the warm wassail to guests. It's important that the cups can withstand hot liquids.
Colander or Fine Mesh Strainer: For removing the cloves and cinnamon sticks from the wassail before serving.
what goes with it?
Spiced Rum: Adding a splash of spiced rum to the wassail boosts the warm, spiced notes and gives it an extra kick.
Ginger Cookies: Serve ginger cookies alongside the wassail for a sweet, spicy contrast. The ginger and molasses flavors in the cookies will pair well with the warmth of the spices in the drink.
Brie with Honey: A creamy Brie cheese drizzled with honey can be a delicious pairing. The richness of the cheese and sweetness of the honey will balance the citrus and spice elements.
Charcuterie Board: A selection of meats, cheeses, and dried fruits can provide a savory contrast.
Pecan Pie: The nutty sweetness of pecan pie matches well with the spices in the wassail, creating a classic seasonal dessert pairing.
Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp can amplify the flavors of apple in the wassail while adding a satisfying texture.
Nutmeg Whipped Cream: Top the wassail with a dollop of nutmeg-infused whipped cream for an extra layer of spice and creaminess.
Candied Nuts: A mix of candied nuts can provide a sweet-savory, crunchy contrast. The cinnamon in the nuts can mirror the flavors of the wassail.
Hot Cocoa: For a drink pairing, offer hot cocoa as a rich alternative. The chocolate will contrast the citrus spice, offering a different yet equally cozy option.
nutrition data
150 calories, 1 grams fat, 38 grams carbohydrates, 1 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in fat.
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reviews & comments
I saw someone say their cinnamon sticks are too big and messed it up. Â Are the McCormick Cinnamon Sticks the right size?
A standard size cinnamon stick is 3-4 inches long.
December 14, 2018
*****
December 3, 2018
This is my favorite recipe, so far!! I went with to a friends family Thanksgiving and brought this. Everyone love it. I made a double batch and it was gone in a few hours. I made this size batch 5 days ago and kept it in the crockpot on warm when I was craving it it was warm and perfect. Just watch what size cinnamon sticks you buy. I wasn't thing about how tall the sticks were and put them all into if they were 1 stick. I found out after buying another jar of cinnamon sticks, which I found were half the size!!My first and second were so strong with cinnamon we couldn't drink it. It took another bottle of apple juice, in it to fix it up and tone it down. It got better, but was embarrassed. I didn't have time to taste it, before I left!! I have a new, 3rd batch and have corrected the problem. It's wonderful now. I left it simmer overnight and had put orange slices and fresh cranberries, which made a wonderful spin on the flavor. Try this variation. Thanks for the recipe!!
December 16, 2017
Couldn't find my Mom's recipe. Found this one and made it today for a family celebration. Everyone loved it!!! It's delicious!
Whole Cloves of what? Garlic? Is there ANYTHING else that comes in cloves? Is that why the recipe doesn't list WHAT the clove is?
Cloves are a common spice. They can be purchased whole (such as called for in this recipe) or ground.
November 22, 2016
My mother-in-law made this for Christmas every year, almost same recipe except she added 1Tbs of Nestea iced tea powder. Delicious!
December 16, 2014
I HAD THIS AT A CHRISTMAS PARTY. BEST EVER !!!
December 19, 2013
A great combination of flavors. It's a very soothing drink and since it's non-alcoholic it's perfect for any time of the day.
October 29, 2013
I put the spices in cheesecloth that was tied shut. I like Jackie's idea of having a bottle of rum next to it!
Do you have to add water to the frozen orange juice concentrate? Or just leave it as is? Thanks!
Do not add water. The apple cider replaces the water in this recipe
December 13, 2010
Not only very simple and inexpensive to make but it is also non-alcoholic. I have used a similar recipe for many years. I alwsys keep a bottle of rum next to the pot and let people add their own liquor as they prefer. Works like a charm.
December 15, 2009
we had this at an open house and so i'm hoping this is the recipe. sounds like it and i can't wait to make it!!!
December 10, 2009
I loved this recipe! It was SO easy to fix! My house was on a local Christmas tour of homes and I fixed this recipe. It made the house smell so warm and cozy. People raved about how good it was and one person has asked for the recipe so far! Thanks for sharing the recipe! I highly recommend it. I actually mixed up all the ingredients the night before to save time and them put them in the crock pot the day of the event.
I love that this recipe is so easy and that there isn't any added refined sugar! It's loaded with vitamin C and the spices are also good for you during cold/flu season. Excellent!
October 7, 2008
I made this drink every Christmas. I am making earlier and earlier every year. Making today. Taste great
December 23, 2007
So yummy, not too sweet, not too tart! Everyone raved about how good it was!