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Cozy Slow Cooker Wassail with Cinnamon Sticks

cozy slow cooker wassail with cinnamon sticks - featured image

A warm, spiced apple cider drink infused with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter days. This slow cooker wassail is easy to make and fills your home with an irresistible aroma.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups apple cider (unfiltered preferred)
  • 2 cups orange juice, freshly squeezed (about 4–5 oranges)
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed (about 2 lemons)
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 4–5 cinnamon sticks (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries (optional)
  • 1 large orange, sliced into rounds
  • 1 apple, sliced into rounds (Honeycrisp or Fuji)
  • Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Juice the oranges and lemons to get the required amounts. Save the spent lemon halves and toss them into the slow cooker for extra flavor.
  2. 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 cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and allspice berries. Optionally, tie the spices in cheesecloth for easy removal.
  4. Float the orange and apple slices on top. Add fresh cranberries if using.
  5. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Do not boil.
  6. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as desired.
  7. Serve warm, ladling into mugs with a cinnamon stick and fruit slice in each.

Notes

Do not boil the wassail as it will make the spices bitter. For a clearer drink, strain out the whole spices before serving. The wassail can be made ahead and reheated; flavors deepen over time. For a spiked version, add 1 cup of bourbon, dark rum, or brandy after cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: wassail, slow cooker, cinnamon, apple cider, holiday drink, non-alcoholic, spiced cider