Autumn is just lurking in the corner paving the way for winter. 

However, if you think that the wait for summer is the only way to keep you warm in those long cold winter nights, then you are utterly mistaken because a nice warm cup of Wassail might just do the trick.

By now, you might have understood that we are talking about the very famous cocktail that has been our winter friend since medieval times. Wassail.

It originated from an Old English word was hál literally translated as ‘be you hale’. It was used to greet someone and wished them good health.

Wassail was drunk as a part of the Medieval Christmastide drinking ritual called wassailing celebrated in parts of England.

This ritual was performed in hopes of a good harvest of cider apples in the forthcoming year.

Wassail has now become a global drink with modern ales.

Wassail Recipe

Wassail Recipe Preparation Time

• 45 minutes

Wassail Recipe Ingredients

A yield of four wassails would need the below ingredients:

• Apple Cider, 4 Cups
• Grated/Minced Ginger, ½ inches
• Sliced lemons, 2
• Cinnamon Stick, 1
• Star Anise, 3
• Vanilla Extract, ¼ ounce
• Alcohol of your choice, 1 ½ ounces for 1 serving (optional)

Wassail Recipe [Alcohol Choice]

This cocktail is all about versatility where you can use the below ales of your choice:

• Wine Base
• Whiskey (Bourbon, Jim Beam)
• Brandy
• Sherry

Wassail Recipe Garnishing Ingredients

• Cinnamon Stick, ½ per serving
• Apple or Lemon Slice, 1 or 2 per serving

Wassail Recipe Directions

• Take all the non-alcoholic ingredients and mix them in a container
• Simmer them over medium to low heat for about 45 minutes (you can also do this in a crockpot)
• Strain the warm liquid and mix the alcohol in suggested measurements
• Serve hot with a garnish of cinnamon stick and lemon or apple slices

Wassail Recipe Directions [Non-Alcohol Choice]

The drink can also be prepared for kids or those who are expecting kids.

The trick is to remove the alcoholic part and serve the ale as is.

Enjoy!

For the most popular recipe here on Christina All Day, click here!