Warm Apple Wassail

This warm apple wassail is a traditional English Christmas cocktail with a modern twist. The ancient beverage, known as wassail, was originally made with beer, mead, or wine, heated with sliced apples and spices. In this updated version, we use ale, fresh cider, and Calvados, creating a comforting and festive drink perfect for holiday gatherings.

Warm Apple Wassail

A comforting and festive English Christmas cocktail with ale, fresh cider, and Calvados, served warm with roasted apple slices.

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Ingredients

  • 2-3 apple slices
  • 1/2 tablespoon maple sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 2 allspice berries
  • 1 whole clove
  • 1/4 cup fresh cider
  • 6 oz ale (preferably Newcastle Brown Ale)
  • 1/4 cup Calvados

Instructions

  1. Sprinkle apple slices with maple sugar and roast at 400°F for 15 minutes for garnish if desired.
  2. Create a spice sachet by combining allspice berries and cloves in cheesecloth.
  3. Heat cider and the spice sachet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons maple sugar, and heat over medium heat until it dissolves. Reduce heat to low and add ale. Heat for 8 minutes.
  5. Add Calvados and heat for 3 minutes more.
  6. Remove spice sachet; discard.
  7. Serve in a heatproof glass and garnish with roasted apple slices if using.