Holiday Wassail Punch: The Warm Spiced Drink Behind the Carol
Add some merriment to your Twelfth Night festivities with this traditional holiday punch, and listen to the famous song while you make it!
Wassailing is the medieval English custom of going door to door at Christmas singing in exchange for food and drink, especially a cup of warm spiced cider. The word comes from Old English wæs hæil, meaning “be in good health.” The custom evolved into modern Christmas caroling, and the drink became the warm, spiced cider punch we still call wassail.
Quick Reference
- What it is: a warm, spiced apple cider punch with citrus, ginger, and warm spices. Often boozy.
- Origin: medieval England. From Old English “wæs hæil” meaning “be in good health.”
- Tradition: caroling tradition of singing from door to door for a cup of warm wassail.
- Best for: Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, holiday open houses.
- Make-ahead: better the next day; the spices fully integrate.
- Substitution: apple cider works as a non-alcoholic base; add brandy/rum for adults.
What Is Wassailing?
Holiday Wassail Punch Recipe
Ingredients (serves 12):
- 1 gallon apple cider
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup lemon juice
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon whole allspice berries
- 2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 cup brandy or rum (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients except brandy in a large pot.
- Bring to a low simmer over medium heat. Do not boil.
- Simmer 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Strain into a serving punch bowl or keep in the pot.
- Stir in brandy or rum just before serving.
- Ladle warm into mugs. Garnish each with an orange slice and cinnamon stick.
Serving Tradition
Traditionally wassail is served in a large bowl with cups. Guests ladle their own. Place orange slices and cinnamon sticks beside the bowl for personal garnish. Wassail keeps warm beautifully in a slow cooker on low setting for hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘wassail’ mean?
From Old English wæs hæil, meaning “be in good health.” It was a toast given when passing a cup of warm cider.
Is wassail always alcoholic?
No. The cider base is non-alcoholic. Brandy or rum is traditional in adult versions but can be omitted.
Can I make wassail ahead?
Yes. It tastes better the next day. Reheat gently and add the alcohol just before serving.
What’s the difference between wassail and mulled cider?
Largely a regional naming difference. Wassail is the English term; mulled cider is the American term for the same general drink.
How long does wassail keep?
Refrigerated in a sealed container, 5-7 days. Reheat gently.
This article was published by the Staff at FarmersAlmanac.com. Any questions? Contact us at questions@farmersalmananac.com.
- Farmers' Almanac Staff
- Farmers' Almanac Staff
- Farmers' Almanac Staff
- Farmers' Almanac Staff
Are the stars in the punch star anise? Whole allspice just looks like a little pea to me. I can’t figure out where the star looking spice comes from in the recipe. Thanks for your help!!
Yes, the photo pictures star anise. The recipe calls for allspice, but star anise makes a nice addition and attractive garnish.
Thank you so much we are making this for Christmas. We got both the allspice and the star anise!!
I am diabetic and didn’t have All Spice so when I made this recipe for 12th night, I left off the added sugar and used 1tsp vanilla extract (the real stuff),
And a healthy shake or two each of the following ground spices: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg (and just a scant dash of chili).
Sooo goooood! Still sent my BG through the roof but so worth it.
Glad you enjoyed it, Carol and we’re glad you made the modifications necessary.
Thank you, Pat Taylor!
Thank you for the recipe. This one is a little different than the one I usually use. My grands love Wassil and relate it to the Christmas celebration.
What size can of pineapple juice? Small or large? It only states one can.
Hi Leafah, we fixed the story to read 1 8 oz can of pineapple juice. Thank you!
Thanks, Great for the season. Merry Christmas everyone