Wassail Recipe With Red Hots: Spiced Cider Warmth for Holiday Nights

There’s something magical about the aroma of warm wassail filling your home during the holiday season. This traditional spiced cider brings comfort and cheer to any gathering.

I’ve perfected this version with a special touch—red hots candies that dissolve into the mix, adding a nostalgic cinnamon kick. The slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

You’ll end up with a fragrant, warming drink that’s perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at a holiday party. The combination of spices and citrus creates a balanced, cozy flavor.

Serve it hot in mugs for a crowd-pleasing beverage that embodies the spirit of the season. Here’s how to make this festive favorite.

Ingredients for Wassail Recipe with Red Hots

Warm spiced cider with nostalgic cinnamon candies and bright citrus notes for cozy holiday sipping.

The apple cider is the foundation here. Unfiltered varieties (like Martinelli’s Gold or local farm stand options) have the depth to stand up to all those spices. Red Hots are non-negotiable—they dissolve completely, giving that intense cinnamon kick you can’t get from sticks alone. I find them in the candy aisle at Walmart or Target. The whole spices (cloves, star anise) should be fresh—check the expiration if buying pre-packaged.

No Red Hots? Cinnamon discs or hard cinnamon candies work in a pinch (just break them up first). Skip the brandy? Apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp) adds a tangy complexity that mimics the depth. For extra citrus, grapefruit juice (half a cup) pairs beautifully. The brown sugar can be swapped for maple syrup at a 1:1 ratio. Want it sweeter? Add more sugar gradually—you can always add but can’t take away.

This keeps beautifully in a slow cooker on warm for 4-6 hours—perfect for parties. Make it ahead and reheat gently (don’t boil) with a splash of water. Stores in the fridge for up to 5 days (strain out solids first). The flavors deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Wassail With Red Hots

Here’s how I make this cozy holiday drink that fills the house with spiced apple aroma.

Step 1: Infuse the Base with Spices and Citrus

In a large pot, combine the 8 cups apple cider, 1 cup orange juice, and 0.25 cup lemon juice. Add the 10 whole whole cloves, 4 whole cinnamon sticks, 4 whole star anise pods, and 2 tbsp fresh ginger.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when tiny bubbles form around the edges and the star anise begins to release its licorice-like fragrance. Let it steep for 10-12 minutes to allow the spices to fully infuse.

Step 2: Sweeten and Add Red Hots for Signature Spice

Stir in the 0.5 cup brown sugar until completely dissolved. Then add the 0.5 cup red hots candies—this is where the magic happens. The candies will melt slowly, creating that distinctive cinnamon-spiced depth that defines this drink.

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for another 8-10 minutes. You’ll see the mixture turn a deeper amber color as the candies dissolve completely. Stir occasionally to prevent the brown sugar from settling at the bottom.

Step 3: Fortify with Brandy (Optional but Recommended)

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the 0.5 cup brandy. This step adds a warm, boozy depth that complements the spices beautifully. If you’re making a non-alcoholic version, simply skip this addition—the drink will still be wonderfully flavorful.

Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the brandy to meld with the other flavors. The aroma at this point should be intoxicating—warm, spiced, and slightly citrusy.

Step 4: Strain and Serve with Fresh Citrus Garnish

Using a fine-mesh strainer, pour the wassail into a heatproof pitcher or directly into mugs. This removes the whole spices and fresh ginger slices while keeping all the infused flavor.

Garnish each serving with orange slices and lemon slices. These not only add a festive touch but also brighten the drink with their fresh citrus notes. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, spiced warmth that makes this a holiday favorite.

Regional Styles of These Flavors

New England Tradition

In New England, wassail takes on a heartier character with the addition of mulled cider and a touch of maple syrup. The red hots dissolve into the mix, creating a deep cinnamon flavor that’s perfect for cold winter nights. I love serving this at our annual Christmas Eve gathering. ❄️

Southern Comfort Style

Down South, they often add pecans and bourbon to their wassail for a richer, nuttier profile. The red hots provide that signature spice kick, while the bourbon adds warmth. I first tried this version at a friend’s holiday party in Georgia.

Midwest Family Favorite

The Midwest keeps it simple and sweet, often using extra brown sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. The red hots dissolve completely, making it kid-friendly. My cousin in Ohio swears by this version for her annual cookie exchange.

Pacific Northwest Twist

In the Pacific Northwest, they embrace the local apple harvest by using fresh-pressed cider and adding dried cranberries for tartness. The red hots balance the tartness beautifully. I picked up this variation at a Portland holiday market. 🌟

Southwest Spiced Version

Southwestern wassail often includes chili powder and lime juice for a spicy-sweet kick. The red hots add another layer of warmth. I was surprised how well this works—it’s like a grown-up version of the drink.

Amish Country Approach

Amish communities often make wassail in large batches, using homemade apple butter as a base. The red hots dissolve slowly, infusing the drink with cinnamon. This version is less sweet and more spice-forward, perfect for sipping throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions