Best 2 Cider Wassail Punch Recipes

Cider wassail punch is a traditional warm alcoholic beverage enjoyed during the Christmas season, particularly in the United Kingdom and some parts of Europe. It is a flavorful and comforting drink made with hot apple cider, spices, and a variety of spirits, typically rum, brandy, or whiskey. This article provides a guide to help you create the best cider wassail punch, exploring different ingredients, spices, and techniques to achieve a rich, aromatic, and festive drink that will impress your friends and family during holiday gatherings.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CIDER WASSAIL PUNCH

Cider Wassail Punch image

Cinnamon, cloves, apple cider and cranberry juice blend together to create a wonderful drink with an aroma to match. If you don't have a percolator, simmer this drink on the stove and strain well before serving. -Sharon Tipton, Orlando, Florida

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 30m

Yield 9 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

6 cups apple cider or juice
2 cups cranberry juice
1 cup orange juice
1/4 cup sugar
1 medium orange, quartered
2 cinnamon sticks (3 inches)
16 whole cloves
1 cup rum or 1 teaspoon rum extract
1/2 teaspoon bitters, optional
Orange peel strips, optional

Steps:

In a Dutch oven over medium heat, combine juices and sugar. Place orange, cinnamon sticks and cloves on a double thickness of cheesecloth. Gather corners of cloth to enclose seasonings; tie securely with string. Add spice bag to juices., Bring liquid to a simmer. Add rum and, if desired, bitters and orange slices. Discard spice bag before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 203 calories, Fat 0 fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 18mg sodium, Carbohydrate 36g carbohydrate (33g sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 0 protein.

COLONIAL HOT CIDER PUNCH, AKA "WASSAIL'

COLONIAL HOT CIDER PUNCH, AKA

This recipe dates back to Colonial days and Serves 40 Serve with pound cake, nut cake, or cheese

Provided by Stormy Stewart

Categories Hot Drinks

Time 25m

Number Of Ingredients 6

Ingredients

3 stick whole cinnamon
1 gal heated apple cider
1/2 qt brandy ( i like apricot brandy)
1/2 qt light rum
3-6 whole oranges
1 small bag whole cloves

Steps:

1. Simmer mixture with 3 sticks whole cinnamon to melt--DO NOT COOK. Allow to cool, pour into punch bowl. Separately stick whole cloves around entire surface of 3 to 6 whole oranges. Place oranges into baking pan with 1/2 inch of water, and bake at 350° for 45 minutes. Place oranges into punch bowl Serves 40
2. Serve with pound cake, nut cake, or cheese and crackers.
3. For a non spirited version just add 1/2 oz rum flavoring instead of rum. and 1/2 oz brandy flavoring instead of brandy

Tips:

Select The Right Cider: Utilize a flavorful, robust cider to make a punch that's rich in character and taste. Choose a variety that would complement the additional ingredients in your punch, whether that be spices, fruits, or liqueurs.
Don't Overdo The Spices: While spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can greatly enhance your punch's flavor, be mindful not to overdo them. Remember, the goal is to create a harmonious blend, where the spices contribute to the overall taste without overpowering it.
Let The Flavors Infuse: Allow enough time for the flavors of the cider, spices, and fruits to meld and infuse. Whether you're steeping mulling spices or letting fruit slices soak, patience is key to achieving a deeply flavorful punch.
Maintain The Ideal Temperature: Keep your cider wassail punch warm, ideally around 180-200°F (82-93°C), using a slow cooker or a pot over low heat. This temperature ensures the drink stays warm and inviting without evaporating the alcohol or compromising its flavors.
Garnish Elegantly: Opt for visually appealing garnishes like orange slices, cranberries, or cinnamon sticks to make your punch even more enticing. These garnishes add a touch of elegance and make your punch picture-perfect for any gathering.

Conclusion:

Creating a delicious and memorable cider wassail punch involves selecting flavorful ingredients, using spices judiciously, allowing ample time for infusion, and maintaining the ideal temperature. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can craft a punch that captures the essence of the festive season and delights your guests with its warmth and cheer. Whether you enjoy it by the fireside or serve it at your holiday party, this classic beverage is sure to create a festive and unforgettable experience.