Hot Wassail (with the option to make it boozy!)

Wassail (pronounced WOSS-el) is a festive drink made with apples, citrus, and warming spices. Having the option to add booze means this is a perfect party drink.

2 apples

8 cups apple cider

2 cups orange juice

1/3 cup lemon juice

4 cinnamon sticks, plus more for garnish

15 whole cloves ,or ½ tsp ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Optional: 1 tbsp light brown sugar for more sweetness

Optional: vodka, rum, or bourbon for booziness

Optional: whipped cream for topping

  1. Poke the whole cloves into the apples on all sides. If using ground cloves, skip this step.
  2. Add all of the ingredients (including the spiked apples, excluding the booze and whipped cream), to a large pot over medium heat.  Bring to a simmer then lower heat slightly. Simmer for 30-45 minutes.
  3. Remove the apples and whole cloves. Ladle into mugs and top with booze, whipped cream, and a cinnamon stick if using.

GF V veg DF

Yield: 10 servings