During the holiday season, sipping on a warm beverage can bring on a sense of nostalgia. Whether it’s Peppermint Hot Cocoa, a Pumpkin Spice Latte, or Spiced Apple Cider, these hot drinks will warm up your body, and fill your heart with fond memories. This festive Wassail Recipe made with essential oils is perfect for holiday entertaining.
I absolutely love making Spiced Wassail for us to enjoy with our holiday meal. I add fresh cranberries, oranges, and cinnamon sticks to make it a gorgeous centerpiece for the table. This recipe can be enjoyed by all members of the family!
What is Wassail?
Wassail is a traditional holiday beverage made from juice and spices. A close cousin to apple cider, Wassail is a type of mulled cider made with a variety of juices such as apple, cranberry, orange, or pineapple juice. It can be simmered on the stove or in a crockpot. Either way, your home will smell amazing!
History of Wassail
The word Wassail comes from the Old English Phrase hal (waes hael) which means “to be in good health.” The term eventually became more of a drinking salute while the act of wassailing turned into a night of drunken Christmas caroling. It took several centuries (and the help of Charles Dickens) for wassailing to become popular again. Wassail is now a treasured Christmas tradition to be enjoyed amongst friends.
Spiced Holiday Wassail
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple juice or apple cider
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 2 cups pineapple juice
- 5 drops Orange Vitality essential oil or Tangerine
- 5 drops Cinnamon Bark Vitality essential oil
- 3 drops Ginger Vitality essential oil
- 3 drops Clove Vitality essential oil
- 1 orange thinly sliced
- 1 lemon thinly sliced
- 8 cinnamon sticks for garnish optional
Instructions
- Combine fruit juices in a large pot. Let simmer on low heat for 30 minutes to one hour.
- Remove from heat. Add essential oils. Garnish with sliced oranges and lemons. Serve warm in a mug or double-walled cup.
Notes
- The base of this recipe is apple juice, but you can substitute cider or any type of juice. I like adding pure cranberry juice to give it a deep, red color.
- Pineapple juice is optional, but it helps cut the bitterness of the cranberry. You can substitute orange juice if you prefer.
- You can keep a big batch of wassail warm in a slow cooker or an instant pot.
- If you want to make this drink alcoholic, you can add brandy, bourbon, rum, or your favorite alcohol. Add about 1 ½ ounce per drink. I like it best with bourbon.
Benefits of Adding Vitality Essential Oils
After a decadent holiday meal, your digestive system may be crying out for help. Cinnamon Bark Vitality essential oil taken internally can help support digestion and maintain a healthy blood sugar level. Ginger Vitality essential oil can help ease occasional indigestion. Orange Vitality provides digestive and immune support when taken as a dietary supplement.
Here’s where to buy Young Living Vitality Essential Oils to use for cooking.
How to Serve Wassail
Wassail makes a wonderful addition to your holiday meal. Wassail is traditionally served in a large punch bowl. Serve it as a beverage alongside turkey or ham, or as an alternative to coffee with dessert.
Wassail can be garnished with whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, and orange slices for a festive pop of color. Leave it simmering on the stove for a burst of fragrance to welcome your guests.
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