18 Delicious Wassail Recipes Traditional

As the leaves turn and the air chills, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming cup of wassail. This timeless tradition, steeped in history and flavor, brings families and friends together during the festive season. Whether you’re a wassail aficionado or new to this spiced delight, our roundup of 18 Delicious Wassail Recipes promises to inspire your next cozy gathering. Let’s raise our cups and dive in!

Spiced Apple Wassail

Warm up your winter evenings with this Spiced Apple Wassail, a comforting blend of sweet apples and aromatic spices that’s perfect for sipping by the fire.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and honey over medium heat. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, sliced orange, and sliced apple to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the wassail simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove the pot from the heat. Using a slotted spoon, discard the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and fruit slices.
5. Ladle the wassail into mugs and serve warm. For an extra touch, garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick or apple slice.

The beauty of this Spiced Apple Wassail lies in its versatility—serve it as a non-alcoholic treat or spike it with a splash of bourbon for an adult version. Either way, its rich, spiced aroma is sure to fill your home with holiday cheer.

Tip: For a deeper flavor, let the wassail sit for an hour before serving. The spices will continue to infuse, making every sip even more flavorful.

Traditional English Wassail

Warm up your winter gatherings with this Traditional English Wassail, a spiced cider that’s as festive as it is fragrant.

Ingredients

• 6 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 6 cups apple cider, 2 cups orange juice, and 1/2 cup honey over medium heat.
2. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, the sliced orange, and sliced apple to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it steep for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the wassail to remove the spices and fruit slices, then return the liquid to the pot to keep warm until serving.

The beauty of this wassail lies in its balance of sweet and spicy, with the orange and apple slices adding a festive touch that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Tip: For an adult version, a splash of dark rum or bourbon adds a warm depth to this traditional drink.

Mulled Cider Wassail

Warm up your holiday gatherings with this fragrant Mulled Cider Wassail, a spiced cider drink that’s as festive as it is comforting.

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 tsp whole allspice berries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 1 gallon apple cider, 2 cups orange juice, and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Stir in 1/2 cup honey until dissolved.
2. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, and 1 tsp whole allspice berries to the pot. Drop in the sliced orange and apple.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, stirring occasionally.
4. Before serving, remove the whole spices with a slotted spoon. Serve warm, garnishing each cup with a fresh orange or apple slice if desired.

The beauty of this wassail lies in its deep, spiced aroma and the way the honey rounds out the tartness of the citrus, making every sip a cozy embrace.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, stud the orange slices with additional cloves before adding them to the pot.

Slow Cooker Wassail

Warm up your winter evenings with this aromatic Slow Cooker Wassail, a spiced cider that fills your home with the comforting scents of the season.

Ingredients

• 6 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 tsp whole allspice berries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced

Instructions

1. In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine 6 cups apple cider, 2 cups orange juice, 1/4 cup lemon juice, and 1/4 cup honey. Stir well to mix.
2. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, and 1 tsp whole allspice berries to the slow cooker.
3. Float the sliced orange and apple on top of the liquid.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, allowing the spices to infuse the wassail with their warm flavors.
5. Before serving, remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice berries with a slotted spoon.

The beauty of this wassail lies in its layers of spice and fruit, creating a drink that’s as visually appealing as it is flavorful. Serve it in mugs with a slice of orange or apple for a festive touch.

Tip: For an adult version, a splash of bourbon or rum in each mug adds a nice warmth.

Orange and Clove Wassail

Warm up your winter gatherings with this fragrant Orange and Clove Wassail, a spiced cider that’s as festive as it is comforting.

Ingredients

• 6 cups apple cider
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 10 whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 orange, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 6 cups apple cider, 1 cup orange juice, and 1/4 cup honey. Stir well to mix.
2. Add 10 whole cloves, 2 cinnamon sticks, and the sliced orange to the pot.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it steep for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks before serving, or leave them in for a more intense flavor.

The beauty of this wassail lies in its balance of sweet and spicy, with the orange slices adding a bright, citrusy note that elevates the traditional cider.

Tip: For an adult version, a splash of bourbon or rum adds a warm kick that’s perfect for holiday parties.

Non-Alcoholic Wassail

Warm up your winter gatherings with this comforting Non-Alcoholic Wassail, a spiced cider that’s as festive as it is fragrant.

Ingredients

• 8 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 tsp whole allspice berries
• 1 orange, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 8 cups apple cider, 2 cups orange juice, and 1/4 cup lemon juice over medium heat.
2. Stir in 1/4 cup honey until fully dissolved.
3. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, and 1 tsp whole allspice berries to the pot.
4. Gently place the thinly sliced orange into the mixture.
5. Heat the wassail on medium-low for 20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse without boiling.
6. Remove from heat and strain out the whole spices before serving hot.

The blend of citrus and warm spices creates a layers flavor that’s both refreshing and cozy, perfect for sipping by the fire.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick or a star anise pod.

Bourbon Spiked Wassail

Warm up your winter gatherings with this Bourbon Spiked Wassail, a festive twist on the classic holiday drink that’s sure to delight your guests.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced
• 1/2 tsp whole cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 4 cups apple cider, 2 cups orange juice, 1/4 cup honey, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1/2 tsp whole cloves, and 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the sliced orange and apple to the pot. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture steep for 20 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1/2 cup bourbon. Ladle the wassail into mugs, ensuring each serving gets a few slices of fruit and a cinnamon stick for garnish.

The bourbon adds a smooth depth to the traditional wassail, making it a sophisticated choice for holiday toasts.

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon and enjoy the rich, spiced flavors of the wassail on their own.

Cranberry Wassail Punch

Warm up your holiday gatherings with this Cranberry Wassail Punch, a festive blend that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cranberry juice
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 cup fresh cranberries

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 4 cups cranberry juice, 2 cups apple cider, 1/2 cup orange juice, and 1/4 cup lemon juice.
2. Add 1/4 cup honey, 2 cinnamon sticks, and 1 tsp whole cloves to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the honey is fully dissolved.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the punch simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Add the sliced orange and 1 cup fresh cranberries to the pot, simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and serve warm, garnishing each cup with a few cranberries and an orange slice.

The combination of tart cranberries and sweet honey creates a perfectly balanced sip that’s sure to become a holiday favorite.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, float a few cranberries and orange slices in a punch bowl before serving.

Hot Wassail Tea

Warm up your winter evenings with this spiced Hot Wassail Tea, a comforting blend that fills your home with the aromas of cinnamon, citrus, and apple.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 4 cups apple cider, 2 cups orange juice, 1/4 cup lemon juice, and 1/4 cup honey. Stir well to mix.
2. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, sliced orange, and sliced apple to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Remove from heat and strain the tea to remove the spices and fruit slices if desired, or serve as is for a more rustic presentation.

The beauty of this Hot Wassail Tea lies in its versatility—serve it spiced and strained for a clear, elegant drink, or with the fruit and spices left in for a hearty, festive brew.

Tip: For an adult version, a splash of bourbon or rum adds a lovely warmth to this already cozy beverage.

Gingerbread Wassail

Warm up your holiday gatherings with this spiced Gingerbread Wassail, a festive twist on the classic drink that combines the cozy flavors of gingerbread with the traditional wassail spices.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 orange, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the apple cider, orange juice, molasses, and brown sugar. Stir until the brown sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg to the pot. Stir well to incorporate the spices into the liquid.
3. Drop in the cinnamon stick and orange slices. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. After simmering, remove the cinnamon stick and orange slices. Serve the wassail warm in mugs, garnished with a fresh orange slice if desired.

The molasses and ginger give this wassail a deep, gingerbread-like flavor that’s perfectly balanced by the bright citrus notes. It’s a delightful way to bring the taste of gingerbread cookies into your drink!

Tip: For an adult version, add a splash of dark rum or bourbon to each mug before serving.

Maple Wassail

Warm up your winter evenings with this comforting Maple Wassail, a spiced cider that’s as festive as it is fragrant.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 orange, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 4 cups apple cider, 1 cup orange juice, and 1/4 cup pure maple syrup over medium heat.
2. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, and 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it steep for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add the sliced orange to the pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Strain the wassail into mugs, discarding the spices and orange slices, and serve warm.

The blend of maple syrup and citrus in this wassail creates a uniquely sweet and tangy flavor profile that’s perfectly balanced by the warmth of the spices.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick or a star anise pod.

Pomegranate Wassail

Warm up your winter gatherings with this vibrant Pomegranate Wassail, a festive twist on the classic holiday drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups pomegranate juice
• 1 orange, sliced
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 5 whole cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1/4 cup honey

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 4 cups apple cider, 2 cups pomegranate juice, and the sliced orange.
2. Add 3 cinnamon sticks, 5 whole cloves, and 1 star anise to the pot.
3. Stir in 1/4 cup honey until fully dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and let it steep for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Strain the wassail to remove the spices and orange slices before serving warm.

The combination of pomegranate and apple cider creates a stunning deep red hue, making this wassail a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday table.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each serving with a fresh pomegranate aril or a cinnamon stick.

Vanilla Bean Wassail

Warm up your winter gatherings with this aromatic Vanilla Bean Wassail, a spiced cider that’s as fragrant as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 8 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 8 cups apple cider, 2 cups orange juice, and 1/4 cup honey over medium heat.
2. Scrape the seeds from 1 vanilla bean into the pot and add the pod.
3. Add 3 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, and 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Add the orange slices and let steep for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Remove the vanilla pod and cinnamon sticks before serving warm.

The vanilla bean adds a luxurious depth to this wassail, making it a standout at any holiday table.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick or a fresh orange slice.

Caramel Apple Wassail

Warm up your autumn evenings with this Caramel Apple Wassail, a cozy twist on the classic holiday drink that combines the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of apples.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and 1/2 cup caramel sauce, stirring until the caramel is fully dissolved.
2. Add the cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and sliced apple to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Sprinkle in the ground nutmeg and let the wassail simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves before serving. Ladle the wassail into mugs and drizzle each serving with a little extra caramel sauce for a decadent finish.

The magic of this Caramel Apple Wassail lies in the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with the caramel adding a luxurious depth that elevates the traditional recipe.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick or a fresh apple slice.

Peach Wassail

Warm up your winter evenings with this comforting Peach Wassail, a fruity twist on the traditional holiday drink that’s sure to delight your senses.

Ingredients

• 4 cups peach nectar
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 orange, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the peach nectar, apple cider, orange juice, and 1/4 cup honey over medium heat.
2. Add the 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp whole cloves, and 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg to the pot, stirring gently to mix.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it steep for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add the thinly sliced orange to the pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves before serving hot.

The blend of peach and apple with a hint of citrus and spice creates a uniquely refreshing wassail that stands out from the usual holiday fare.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, garnish each serving with a cinnamon stick or a fresh orange slice.

Berry Wassail

Warm up your winter evenings with this comforting Berry Wassail, a fruity twist on the traditional holiday drink that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to sip.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup honey

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cranberry juice, and orange juice over medium heat.
2. Add the mixed berries, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg to the pot.
3. Stir in the honey until fully dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Remove the pot from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the berries and spices, or strain the wassail through a fine mesh sieve for a clearer drink.
6. Serve warm in mugs, garnished with a few fresh berries or a cinnamon stick if desired.

The beauty of this Berry Wassail lies in its versatility; the mixed berries add a vibrant depth of flavor that makes it stand out from traditional recipes. Perfect for those who love a fruitier, slightly tangy beverage.

Tip: For an adult version, a splash of bourbon or rum added just before serving transforms this into a cozy cocktail.

Herbal Wassail

Warm up your winter gatherings with this aromatic Herbal Wassail, a spiced cider that’s as festive as it is comforting.

Ingredients

• 8 cups apple cider
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tbsp whole cloves
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup fresh ginger, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine 8 cups apple cider, orange slices, lemon slices, 4 cinnamon sticks, 1 tbsp whole cloves, 1 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 cup honey, and 1/4 cup fresh ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and let it steep for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the wassail to remove the solids, then return the liquid to the pot and keep warm on the stove until ready to serve.

The fresh ginger and citrus slices give this wassail a bright, zesty kick that balances the deep sweetness of the cider and honey.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, float a few fresh cranberries on top before serving.

Chai Spiced Wassail

Warm up your winter gatherings with this Chai Spiced Wassail, a fragrant twist on the classic holiday drink that’s sure to delight your guests.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• 1 tsp whole allspice berries
• 1 star anise
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/4 cup black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and honey over medium heat. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, star anise, ground cardamom, ground ginger, and freshly grated nutmeg to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it steep for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Remove the pot from heat and add the black tea leaves. Cover and let steep for 5 minutes, then strain the wassail into a serving pitcher or directly into mugs.
4. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice if desired. The blend of chai spices with the traditional wassail base creates a uniquely aromatic and comforting beverage that stands out at any holiday table.

Tip: For an adult version, a splash of bourbon or rum adds a nice warmth to this already cozy drink.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious wassail recipes brings warmth and joy to your holiday season. Whether you’re sticking to tradition or trying something new, there’s a recipe here for every home cook. Don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments and pin this article to your Pinterest boards for easy reference. Happy sipping!

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