This Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria is a fruity twist on a classic drink! It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday cheer, with sweet apples and tart cranberries mingling in a spiced cider base.
Mix it up in a big pitcher, and let it chill—so simple! I love to add extra fruit on top for a fun touch. You know, it also makes me feel fancy when I serve it in pretty glasses! 🍷
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: Merlot or Pinot Noir are great choices because they add depth and richness. If you’re not a fan of red wine, you can use white wine or a sparkling wine instead for a refreshing twist.
Apple Cider: Fresh or store-bought apple cider gives a lovely autumn flavor. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can substitute it with sparkling apple juice or ginger ale for a fizzy effect.
Brandy: Brandy adds warmth. If you don’t have it, feel free to use bourbon or skip it altogether to keep things lighter.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau and Triple Sec are ideal, but if they’re not available, orange juice can work as a budget-friendly alternative!
Fresh Cranberries: These contribute tartness. If you can’t find fresh ones, you can use frozen cranberries; just make sure to thaw them before adding.
How Can You Make Sure the Sangria Flavors Blend Perfectly?
Allowing the sangria to chill is key for the flavors to blend beautifully. Aim for at least 2 hours in the fridge, but overnight is best! This gives the fruit time to infuse its freshness. Make sure to cover the pitcher to keep everything fresh.
- Mix up the ingredients in the pitcher, giving it a gentle stir.
- Let it chill to allow the flavors to marry well together.
- Before serving, add ice to keep it nice and cool.
For an extra touch, feel free to add different fruits like pears or berries to switch things up! Enjoy your refreshing sangria!
How to Make Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Pinot Noir)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1 apple, diced (mix of red and green apples)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Ice cubes, as needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful sangria takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should chill for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight! This allows all the flavors to blend together perfectly, making each sip a burst of deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large pitcher, start by pouring in the entire bottle of red wine. Then, add the apple cider, brandy, and orange liqueur. This mix is what gives your sangria its rich base!
2. Add the Fruits and Spices:
Next, toss in your diced apples, fresh cranberries, and slices of orange. To complete this step, drop in the cinnamon sticks. These add a warm, lovely aroma to your drink!
3. Stir and Chill:
Gently stir all the ingredients together to combine the flavors. Then, cover the pitcher and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion!
4. Serve with Style:
When you’re ready to enjoy, fill your glasses with ice cubes. Pour the sangria over the ice, making sure to include some of the fruity goodness in each glass. For a beautiful finishing touch, garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh rosemary and an extra cinnamon stick!
5. Cheers!
Serve chilled and enjoy a refreshing glass (or two) of your homemade Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria—perfect for any gathering or celebration!
Can I Use White Wine Instead of Red Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter flavor, white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine works wonderfully, giving a refreshing twist to the sangria. Just keep in mind that the color will change to a lighter hue.
How Long Does Sangria Last in the Fridge?
Once made, sangria can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within 24-48 hours to maintain the fresh fruit flavors and crispness. Just remember to add ice and any additional fresh fruit right before serving!
Can I Make This Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! For a tasty non-alcoholic version, skip the wine and brandy. Instead, you can use sparkling grape juice or sparkling cider, and add extra fruit juice and seltzer water for fizz. This way, everyone can enjoy the fun!
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Pears, berries, or even slices of melon can complement the flavors beautifully. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness and acidity levels if you’re using very sweet fruits.