Spiced Cranberry Orange Wassail (Alcohol-Free) | Cozy Winter Recipe
Nov 11, 2025
Warm up the holiday season with this Spiced Cranberry Orange Wassail recipe, a cozy and alcohol-free twist on a traditional Christmas punch that’s full of festive flavor and symbolic meaning.
When I think of wassail, I always think of the Feast of Saint Nicholas on December 6th. When I converted to Catholicism and learned the true story of St. Nicholas—not the Santa Claus version—I was struck by the depth of meaning behind this saint and his generosity. Wassail quickly became a tradition in our home as a way to honor his feast day, but since I cannot drink alcohol, I wanted a version that I could fully enjoy. This spiced cranberry orange wassail is just that—something I can share at gatherings or sip quietly during the winter season. The oranges and spices bring the essence of the holidays to life and remind us of the deeper traditions woven into Advent and Christmastide. Every sip of this recipe embodies the heart of Christmas and the winter season.
Here’s what you’ll find in today’s post:
- The symbolic meaning behind wassail and its ingredients
- The difference between wassail and mulled cider
- A nourishing Spiced Cranberry Orange Wassail recipe
- Simple tips and a cozy Q&A for making your own batch
- More festive, family-friendly drink recipes for Christmas
The Legal Stuff
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Why Wassail Feels Like Home at Christmastime
The word “wassail” comes from the Old English phrase waes hael, meaning “be well.” Traditionally, it was a toast to good health, shared with family and neighbors as part of caroling and Christmastide festivities. For our family, wassail is more than just a drink—it ties us to the Feast of St. Nicholas, weaving together faith, generosity, and cozy winter gatherings.
Every December 6th, I brew a pot of this spiced cranberry drink. The citrus and spice carry the echo of giving, reminding me what the holidays are truly about—not just good flavor, but God and His gifts, shared with loved ones throughout Advent and January.
Wassail vs. Mulled Cider—What’s the Difference?
Both are warm, spiced, and perfect for cold winter nights, but they aren’t exactly twins:
- Wassail often leans into citrus and bolder spices, and old recipes sometimes incorporated bread or eggs!
- Mulled cider keeps things simple with apple cider and traditional mulling spices like cinnamon and cloves (a shortcut is to use our Traditional Mulling Spices).
Ultimately, it’s the cozy spices that make both drinks so beloved:
Spiced Cranberry Orange Wassail Recipe
This alcohol-free wassail blends apple cider, cranberry juice, orange, and aromatic spices—a comforting, meaningful drink to share at winter gatherings.
Helpful Tips
- Keep it slow-cooker-ready so it stays warm during gatherings.
- Make it ahead—the flavors deepen beautifully overnight.
- Experiment with star anise or cardamom for a festive twist.
- Use a quality tea infuser or strainer for easy serving.
More Seasonal Sips for the Holidays
If you love the cozy spice of wassail, you might also enjoy a mug of Homemade Chai Tea, steeped with fragrant whole spices. For something fizzy and festive, these Kombucha Cocktails & Mocktails bring sparkle to any gathering. Looking for something light and refreshing? Try this ACV Cranberry Juice, a tangy, gut-friendly holiday option. And if you want to get creative, explore a few Easy Mocktail Recipes that showcase herbs, kombucha, and fruit in colorful ways.
Your Wassail Questions Answered
When are the best times to serve wassail?
I serve it whenever I want the room to feel like a warm hug—especially around St. Nicholas Day, during Advent evenings, Christmas-tide, or anytime I want something festive and alcohol-free.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely. Store it in the fridge for up to two days (strain to keep down any bitterness from the citrus peel), then gently reheat to serve.
How should I store leftovers?
Let it cool, strain out the solids, and place it in a covered jar or pitcher in the fridge for up to 3 days.
A Final Toast from My Kitchen to Yours
Wassail for me isn’t just a recipe—it’s a moment carved out of Advent to slow down and savor God’s gifts, woven through citrus and spice, history and story. Though I can’t drink alcohol, this version lets me celebrate its invitation without compromise.
And if you don’t have time to make a full batch, the flavorful and comforting Coastal Cranberry Spice Tea is a perfect way to sip wassail vibes any time of day. For your next gathering, pair a pot of wassail with something savory from our Free Charcuterie Board Ebook—the perfect complement to this warm, reflective drink.
Waes hael, friend. May your Advent and Christmas-tide be filled with warmth, peace, and a great many of God's graces!
Read More Cozy Recipes
- Easy Mocktail Recipes: Herbal, Kombucha, and More!
- How to Make Winter Spice Mixes
- How to Make Homemade Chai Tea (Not Instant)
- Kombucha Cocktails & Mocktails
- Healthy Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix
- Homemade Cocoa Bombs: Festive & Fun
Shop Tools Mentioned: Tea Strainer with Lid | Mulling Spices | Cardamom
