There is nothing quite like the aromatic allure of a steaming mug of Citrus Wassail to bring the family together, especially during the holiday season. This vibrant, refreshing drink is the perfect balance of tangy citrus and warm spices, making it an irresistible treat. Imagine a cheerful, bright kitchen filled with the zesty scent of oranges, lemons, and limes mingling with the cozy aroma of cinnamon and cloves – a true celebration of flavors that brings warmth to your heart and home. Whether it’s a snowy afternoon or a festive gathering, this Citrus Wassail is a must-try for those moments when you want to create lasting memories with loved ones.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 cups
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine apple cider, orange juice, lemon juice, pineapple juice, and water. Stir to mix well.
- Add honey or brown sugar to the pot and stir until dissolved.
- Add the sliced orange, lemon, and lime to the pot, followed by the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Once the wassail is aromatic and warm, remove it from heat. Remove the citrus slices, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.
- Ladle the wassail into mugs, optionally garnishing with a fresh citrus slice or cinnamon stick for a festive touch. Serve warm.
Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, let the wassail sit for an hour after simmering to allow the spices to fully infuse, then gently reheat before serving.
- If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the honey or brown sugar to taste.
- Add a splash of cranberry juice for a tart twist.
Storage Instructions
- Store any leftover wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Sugar substitute: Use agave syrup or maple syrup as an alternative to honey or brown sugar.
- Juice variation: Use grapefruit juice in place of lemon juice for a mellow citrus flavor.
Pairings
- This lovely wassail pairs wonderfully with gingerbread cookies or a slice of spiced cake.
- For an adult twist, add a splash of dark rum or bourbon to each mug before serving.
We would love to see your version of this delightful Citrus Wassail! Share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram.
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