Holiday Hot Wassail

{i learned this recipe last year at a Macey's cooking class from a favorite teacher there. i am not one for hot wassail... but this recipe is absolutely wonderful! there is a mouthful of different flavors in every sip and its never boring! added bonus: *insert heavenly, cozy smell here* you really need to try it out, even if its just to smell the citrus-cinnamon-clove-ginger smells that emit from this delicious drink!}


{ingredients}
1 qt. orange juice
1 qt. apple juice {or apple cider}
1/2 c. sugar
1/4 c. lemon juice
1 tsp. ground cinnamon {i like to put in a couple of cinnamon sticks as well, adds a little texture to the display and a great scent in the house.}
1/8 tsp. ground cloves {you can also add a few whole cloves if that's what you like, just make sure you don't serve them up in the glasses.}
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 orange- cut into thin slices
4-5 thin slices fresh ginger root {secret ingredient}

{directions}
in a large pot, add all the ingredients and heat at a low simmer {not boil} for about 10-15 minutes. Serve warm with an orange slice or cinnamon stick.
{or}
in a crock pot add all ingredients and cook on low heat until warm.

**Here's the recipe in cute form! :)

{any of the seasonings are optional if you so desire, but it is a very different experience without it. the ginger might dissuade people, but its simple and really makes a huge difference! this recipe can be reheated for about a week so leave it on the stove, or in the pot and heat it up when you'd like a little bit of liquid heaven...}