Cranberry-Apple Wassail
Every year, my husband and I kick off our tree decorating with a pot of this warming wassail simmering on the stove. The spices fill our home with that quintessential Christmas scent while we untangle lights and hang ornaments. It’s become our little tradition, a cozy ritual that marks the official start of the holiday season. Serve it as is for a family-friendly sipper, or stir in some apple brandy at the end if you want to make it boozy for the adults.
Cranberry-Apple Wassail
Ingredients
- 8 cups 100% apple cider or apple juice
- 2 cups 100% cranberry juice
- 1 cup 100% orange juice
- 4 inch cinnamon sticks
- 7-8 whole cloves
- 1 tbsp whole black peppercorn
- 3-4 whole star anise
- 1 inch fresh ginger root, roughly sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup apple brandy (optional)
Instructions
- Combine apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, peppercorns, star anise, and ginger in a large pot.
- Add orange slices, apple slices, and cranberries.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 1-2 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the spices will infuse.
- About 5 minutes before serving, add the brandy, if using, and continue to simmer on low.
- Strain out the spices and fruit before serving.
- Serve with a fresh slice of apple/orange/handful cranberries or a stick of cinnamon.
