Cranberry Spice Wassail Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the warmth of family, the sparkle of holiday decorations, and the inviting aroma of a freshly brewed Cranberry Spice Wassail wafting through the house. This unique recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the comforting spices of cinnamon and star anise, making it a must-try for any seasonal gathering. Perfect for chilly evenings, this beverage will bring everyone together, wrapped in the cozy spirit of the holidays.

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 4 cups cranberry juice
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
• 1 orange, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine cranberry juice, apple cider, and orange juice. Set over medium heat.
2. Add fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and brown sugar (if using) to the pot. Stir gently.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add sliced orange to the pot during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
5. Remove from heat and strain to remove the spices and fruit, if desired.
6. Serve hot in festive mugs, garnishing each with fresh cranberries, a cinnamon stick, and a star anise.

Helpful Tips

• Variations: Add a splash of rum or brandy for an adult twist.
• Beverage Temperature: To keep the wassail warm for a long party, transfer it to a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Juice Substitute: Use pomegranate juice instead of cranberry juice for a different flavor profile.
• Sugar Alternatives: Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar.

Pairings

Serve Cranberry Spice Wassail alongside gingerbread cookies, spiced nuts, or a cheese platter for a delightful holiday treat. For a full meal, pair it with a hearty stew or roast, complemented by a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

We hope this Cranberry Spice Wassail brings warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. We’d love to see your creations, so be sure to share them using #ZynahzRecipes or tag @Zynahz on Instagram. Feel free to leave feedback on our website at www.zynahz.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow us on social media for more inspiring recipes and family bonding moments. Happy holidays from Zynahz!