Apple-Cranberry Wassail

MAKES ABOUT 6 SERVINGS

My mom makes the traditional version of this hot drink every Christmas, but I had to give it up since it’s usually filled with orange and pineapple juice. I wanted to recreate a version that was similar. As written, this recipe is really tart, which is how I remember it growing up. If you’re not a big fan of tart flavors, increase the portion of apple juice and reduce the cranberry. Be sure you’re buying plain juices, without sugar or flavorings added. I like to make this in my slow cooker so I can smell the spices all day, but the stovetop works fine too.

3 cups apple juice (preferably Honeycrisp)

1½ cups cranberry juice

3 cinnamon sticks

1 teaspoon whole cloves

1 tablespoon honey

1 Honeycrisp apple, sliced (top, bottom, and seeds discarded)

In a slow cooker or saucepan, combine the apple juice, cranberry juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and honey. Float the apple slices on top. Set the slow cooker on low heat for 3 hours or simmer on the stove 30 to 40 minutes. Remove the cloves, cinnamon sticks, and apples before serving unless you don’t mind fishing around to avoid them. Ladle the wassail into mugs and serve hot.