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Cozy Slow Cooker Wassail with Cinnamon Sticks

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This cozy slow cooker wassail with cinnamon sticks is a rich, deeply spiced holiday drink that fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. Made with apple cider, orange juice, and whole spices, it’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it beverage for parties or quiet winter evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups (1.9 liters) apple cider
  • 2 cups (475 ml) orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 4–5 large cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 2–3 whole star anise pods (optional)
  • Orange slices for garnish
  • Apple slices for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spices: If using a spice bag, place the whole cloves, allspice berries, and star anise in a piece of cheesecloth or a reusable infuser. Tie securely with kitchen twine. If you don’t mind loose spices, skip this step and strain later.
  2. Combine the liquids: Pour the apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice into the slow cooker. Add the honey or maple syrup and stir until mostly dissolved.
  3. Add the aromatics: Drop in the cinnamon sticks, sliced ginger, and the spice bag (if using). If not using a spice bag, toss the whole spices directly into the liquid. Stir gently.
  4. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld.
  5. Taste and adjust: After 3 hours, taste the wassail. Add more honey or maple syrup if needed, or let it cook longer for more spice.
  6. Garnish and serve: Just before serving, float fresh orange slices and apple slices on top. Ladle into mugs, ensuring each cup gets a cinnamon stick if possible.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, toast the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes before adding to the slow cooker. The wassail can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; flavors deepen overnight. For a spiked version, add 1 cup of dark rum or bourbon after cooking. To keep warm for a party, set the slow cooker to ‘warm’ for up to 4 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: wassail, slow cooker wassail, holiday drink, mulled cider, cinnamon sticks, apple cider, winter beverage, party drink

Find it online: https://dinadishes.com/cozy-slow-cooker-wassail-with-cinnamon-sticks/