Make a large batch of slow cooker wassail for the holidays. This warm, spiced beverage blends three juices and fragrant whole spices for a comforting drink that works well for fall and winter gatherings.
If you enjoy slow-cooked warm drinks, try the Warm Christmas Punch or Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Lattes for more cozy ideas.
What is Wassail?
- Wassail is a hot mulled cider traditionally associated with Yuletide celebrations. It’s a centuries-old beverage often served warm and spiced.
- The name comes from the Anglo-Saxon phrase “waes hael,” meaning “good health.” Early recipes included mulled ale, cream, roasted apples, eggs, cloves, ginger, nutmeg and sugar.
- Wassail is naturally non-alcoholic in this version, making it family-friendly and a great option when you want a warm, alcohol-free punch at a party.
Recipe Ingredients
- Juices – A mix of apple juice (or cider), cranberry juice and orange juice provides the fruity base.
- Spices – Whole cinnamon sticks and whole cloves add warm, familiar holiday spice.
- Fruits – Sliced apples and oranges infuse flavor and make an attractive garnish.
- Honey – A bit of honey sweetens the wassail gently; brown sugar can be substituted if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step One – Pour the cranberry juice, apple cider (or apple juice), and orange juice into the slow cooker.
Step Two – Stir briefly to combine.
Step Three – Add orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves, then stir to distribute the spices and fruit.
Step Four – Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for about 2 1/2 hours. There’s no need to stir while it cooks.
How long can I keep Wassail warm?
- Keep the wassail on the warm setting for up to 4 hours. After that, flavor can change and the spices may become overly strong.
- To avoid bitterness, remove the whole spices once the initial cooking time is finished if you plan to keep the wassail warm for an extended period.
Wassail Serving Tips
- Set out mugs or sturdy paper cups so guests can serve themselves from the slow cooker.
- Offer toppings like whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel for a festive touch.
- Provide optional alcohol (brandy, rum, or hard apple cider) nearby for guests who want to spike their own mug.
Recipes FAQs and Variations
If you’d like to add alcohol, popular choices include brandy, dark rum, or hard apple cider. Add spirits to each cup to taste so non-drinkers can enjoy the original version.
A full-bodied red or a red blend works nicely if you prefer wine. Use a wine you enjoy drinking on its own for best results.
Yes—use only a pinch of ground cloves if you don’t have whole cloves, as ground spices are more concentrated.
This wassail is naturally kid-friendly when made without alcohol. If children are sensitive to clove, reduce the amount or remove whole cloves after cooking.
Store cooled wassail in the refrigerator for up to three days in a covered pitcher or container.
Reheat single servings in the microwave, or warm larger amounts gently on the stovetop until heated through.
Slow Cooker Wassail
Pin
Equipment
- Slow cooker, 6-quart or larger
Ingredients
- 4 cups cranberry juice
- 4 cups apple juice (or apple cider)
- 4 cups orange juice
- 1/3 cup honey (or 1/4 cup brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves (or a pinch ground)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 orange, sliced
Optional for garnish:
- 1 green apple, sliced
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- Orange wedges for glasses
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 1/2 hours.
- Tip: The longer it cooks, the stronger the spices become. Remove whole spices after cooking if you plan to keep the wassail warm to avoid bitterness. If it becomes too spicy, dilute with a splash of juice.
Sarah’s Notes
If you want to spike individual servings, brandy, dark rum or hard apple cider work nicely.
Wine with wassail:
A red blend or other red wine you enjoy pairs well with the warm spiced flavors.
Keeping warm:
- Keep on warm for up to 4 hours; remove whole spices after cooking to prevent bitterness.
Storage:
Refrigerate for up to three days in a sealed pitcher.
Reheating:
Microwave a single serving or warm larger quantities on the stovetop until hot.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 41 g |
Protein: 1 g |
Fat: 1 g |
Sugar: 36 g
Nutrition info is an estimate; if you follow a special diet, calculate values yourself.
More holiday drink recipes:
- Eggnog Lattes
- Slow Cooker Red Hots Punch
- Cranberry Citrus Tea
- Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Lattes
- Slow Cooker Apple Cider
- Slow Cooker Mint Hot Chocolate