If you are looking for an easy, non-alcoholic beverage to serve at your next party, this is the perfect recipe to try. Years ago, my mom and siblings were in a small community theater production of Charles Dickens's Christmas Carol. For a cast party, she made this recipe for "cranberry wassail" that she found. It was a huge hit! Now, when I am tasked in bringing something to a get-together during Autumn or winter, I like to bring this cozy-season staple that makes any occasion feel celebratory.
I have often been asked for the recipe, so I thought I would put it up on the blog for easy reference. Hope your own version of this cider makes an impression on your hosts or guests that you have over for the holidays!
HOT CRANBERRY PUNCH
- 8 Cups of Hot Water
- 1 1/2 Cups Sugar
- 4 Cups Cranberry Juice
- 3/4 Cup Orange Juice
- 1/4 Cup Lemon Juice
- 12 Whole Cloves (Optional)
- 1/2 Cup Red Hot Cinnamon Candies
In a 5 Quart Slow Cooker, combine water, sugar, and juices; stir until the sugar is dissolved. If desired, place cloves in a double thickness of cheesecloth; bring up corners of cloth and tie with string to form a bag. Add spice bag and cinnamon candies to slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through. Before serving, discard spice bag and stir punch. Yeild 3 1/2 quarts.
Notes:
- If you would like the recipe to be less sweet, you can cut out the extra 1/2 cup of sugar.
- I have had success just placing the cloves in a tea bag, or just directly into the liquids. The only nice thing about having the cloves in a separate bag is the convenience of not having to pick out or avoid the cloves when ladling out a cup. Though the recipe says optional on the cloves, I would highly suggest them for a more robust flavor.
Hope you have a beautiful holiday season.
Merry Christmas!
-RNM