The Best Yule Mule For Christmas, Cocktail

I went on a Trader Joe’s run and came across this beverage, Winter Wassail Punch. I am not a huge cocktail person, but I must say, when making my own cocktails, TJs always provides the best and unique mixers at that amazing TJs price! I am also a sucker for anything themed and of course, Christmassy, so this punch was coming home for some cocktail trials.

Tips for making:

Shake your punch real well with your choice of bourbon or vodka in a cocktail shaker (I will say, I prefer the bourbon). I do recommend keeping a straw, stir stick, or even cinnamon stick for bolder flavor in your glass. I experienced that the punch spices will eventually separate back to the bottom of your glass, leaving your last sips a bit sinus clearing!

Go fancy! Make a cinnamon and sugar rim by mixing some cinnamon and sugar on a plate. Wet the rim of your glass with water or an orange or other citrus slice and gently press your glass rim on the plate and turn slightly, shaking off any excess.

Make sugared cranberries as a sweet and tart garnish. To make, simmer 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar for 3 minutes (keep an eye on this process to not burn the sugar). Stir in cranberries, remove from heat and stir another minute. Put cranberries on parchment paper to dry for 1 hour. Finish by tossing the cranberries while they are sticky in sugar. Place your shimmering berries in the refrigerator or freezer to later add to your cocktail.

Sparkling, sugared cranberries can be used in cocktails, on cakes and to add beauty to any charcuterie board.

Ingredients:

Ingredients are for one serving. If making for a crowd and you don’t want to exercise your bar-tending arm on a shaker, multiply ingredients per serving and serve from a pitcher, making sure to mix the wassail well.

2 oz Bourbon or Vodka
4 oz Trader Joe’s Wassail
2 oz Soda Water
Cinnamon & Sugar
Optional Garnishes:
- Sugared Cranberries
- Orange Slice
- Lime Slice
- Cinnamon Stick
- Sprig of Rosemary or Mint Leaves