Late fall calls for gatherings that feel a little softer and a little slower. Warm kitchens. Candlelight. Friends drifting in and out. A pot of something fragrant simmering in the background. Slow Cooker Spiced Wassail fits right into that world. It is citrusy, spiced, comforting, and perfect for sharing.
This version keeps things simple while staying true to the classic flavors of apple, orange, cinnamon, and clove. The result is a drink that feels festive without being fussy.
It is warm, bright, and made to be ladled out all evening long.
Why Wassails Work
Wassail has a long tradition as a celebratory drink. Its roots stretch back to old English winter gatherings where families and neighbors would share a warm bowl of spiced cider while offering good wishes for the season. It was a way to bring people together, stay warm, and mark the shift into the colder months.
The drink itself is built on simple ingredients that work beautifully when heated slowly. Apple cider becomes richer and rounder as it simmers. Citrus adds brightness. Cinnamon, cloves, and star anise deepen the aroma and infuse the whole pot with a comforting holiday character.
It is a drink that gets better with time. The longer it warms, the more the spices bloom and the more inviting the flavor becomes. That makes it a natural match for slow cookers and long evenings at home.
Drinking Temperature
Served at 135°F (57°C)
Ingredients
- 8 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
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1 apple, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4 to 6 whole cinnamon sticks
- 8 to 10 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- 2 to 3 tablespoons brown sugar, to taste
- Optional: a splash of dark rum or bourbon for adult servings
Directions
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Add apple cider, orange juice, sliced fruit, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and brown sugar to a slow cooker.
- Cover and heat on low for 3 to 4 hours until the flavors are rich and aromatic. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Set your Ember Mug to your preferred temperature and ladle the wassail directly into the mug. Add a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for a festive touch.
Why it works in Ember
Wassail is meant to be sipped slowly while you move from room to room or settle into conversation. The Ember Mug keeps it perfectly warm for as long as you need so the spices stay bright and the comfort never fades. Whether you are hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening, it keeps every ladled cup tasting just right.
Variations
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Cranberry Wassail: Add one cup of cranberry juice for a tart, jewel-toned version.
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Vanilla Citrus Wassail: Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract at the end for a smooth, rounded finish.
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Spiced Maple Wassail: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for deeper warmth.
The Last Drop
Slow Cooker Spiced Wassail brings the best parts of the season into one pot. Bright citrus, warm spices, and long-lasting comfort. Paired with an Ember Mug, it becomes the kind of drink that carries you through gatherings, celebrations, and peaceful nights at home.
