Easy Wassail Recipe – Tastes Better From Scratch

This traditional Wassail recipe has been handed down for generations and is one of my favorite easy holiday drinks. It’s a delicious warm cider drink that balances the flavors of orange and apple with cinnamon and spices!

Looking for more drink recipes? Try this Homemade Eggnog, Creamy Hot Cocoa, Christmas Punch, or Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Cider!

Why I love this drink:

• Tradition – This is a treasured family recipe that will always remind me of the holidays. We love to make a batch to enjoy with neighbors as we pass out treats on Halloween to the trick-or-treaters. We always enjoy it on Christmas morning as well.
• Cozy – One batch will fill your house with the most wonderful aroma of apple and cinnamon. It’s the best drink to enjoy on a cold, snowy day.
• Delicious – this hot wassail recipe is not overly sweet and has all the perfect flavor balance.

What is Wassail?

Wassail is like the tastier sister to Apple Cider.  Traditional wassail was made with hard liquor, apples, brandy, and other spices.  This recipe is made with cloves, apples, cinnamon, lemon, orange, ginger, and nutmeg and is a nonalcoholic wassail recipe.  You could certainly add alcohol if you wish by adding a splash of brandy, bourbon, rum, or whiskey, to taste.

How to make Wassail:

Prep Apples: Poke the whole cloves into the apples on all sides. 

Combine Ingredients: Add all of the ingredients, including the apples, to a large pot over medium low heat then bring to a simmer. Simmer for 30-45 minutes. 

Serve: Remove the apples and whole cloves then ladle hot wassail into mugs and enjoy!

Storage and Reheating Instructions:

To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make this in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to heat and enjoy.

To Reheat: Use the microwave, stove, or slow cooker to reheat this hot wassail. Just heat until it’s your desired temperature.

I originally shared this recipe November 2013. Updated October 2017 and October 2022.