This Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria is a festive drink, perfect for gatherings! It’s a yummy mix of sweet apple cider, tart cranberries, and a splash of your favorite wine.
It’s like autumn in a glass! I love how easy it is to whip up a big batch. Just mix, chill, and watch the smiles as everyone enjoys this refreshing treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: Merlot or Pinot Noir adds depth to the sangria. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version, grape juice or non-alcoholic wine can work as alternatives for the same rich flavor.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider brings a beautiful sweetness. If you don’t have that, store-bought apple juice will do, but try to choose a less sweet option to balance the flavors.
Cranberry Juice: For a less tart drink, you can use cranberry cocktail juice, which is sweeter. If you’re health-conscious, opt for 100% cranberry juice or dilute it with some water.
Fruits: Feel free to swap the apple and pear for seasonal fruits like oranges or pomegranates. This can add vibrant color and new tastes to your sangria!
Cinnamon Sticks: Ground cinnamon can be used but be aware that it’s stronger. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste. Anise or cloves can also be fun spice alternatives.
How Do I Infuse the Best Flavors in My Sangria?
To really get the flavors popping, you need to let this sangria sit! Infusing the ingredients allows the wine and juices to meld perfectly with the fruits and spices.
- Combine all your ingredients in a pitcher, ensuring everything is mixed well.
- Cover it tightly to keep the fresh flavors, and place it in the fridge for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight if you can wait!
- Serve over ice after chilling, as this will keep it cool and refreshing. The longer it sits, the better the flavors blend!
And there you go! Enjoy your festive Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria, and don’t forget to share it with friends!
Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Pinot Noir)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 apple, cored and diced (mix green and red apples if preferred)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 pear, cored and sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust sweetness to taste)
- Ice cubes (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing sangria takes about 10 minutes to prepare, but it’s best chilled in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! Allowing it to sit lets all the flavors blend together beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large pitcher, pour in the bottle of red wine, apple cider, and cranberry juice. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together, ensuring a lovely base for your sangria.
2. Add the Fruits:
Next, toss in the diced apple, fresh cranberries, and sliced pear into the pitcher. You can have fun mixing different fruit varieties to enhance the taste and color!
3. Spice It Up:
Drop in the cinnamon sticks and add the sprigs of fresh rosemary. These add a warm, fragrant flavor that makes your sangria even more delightful.
4. Sweeten to Taste:
If you’d like a little more sweetness, drizzle in honey or maple syrup. Stir gently until everything is well mixed, and the sweetener is fully dissolved.
5. Chill and Infuse:
Cover your pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight if you’re preparing ahead. This allows the flavors to meld wonderfully, creating a deliciously infused sangria.
6. Serve It Up:
When you’re ready to serve, take your glasses and fill them with ice cubes. Pour the chilled sangria over the ice. You’ll love the refreshing experience!
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh rosemary, a slice of apple or pear, and a few cranberries for a beautiful holiday look!
8. Enjoy:
Serve chilled and revel in the delightful flavors of this Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria. Cheers to a fun and festive beverage!
Can I Use White Wine Instead of Red Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter taste, white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Prosecco can be a refreshing alternative. Just keep in mind that it will alter the overall flavor profile slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sangria?
You can store any leftover sangria in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, the fruit will become softer and the flavors may intensify. Be sure to give it a quick stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Recipe Alcohol-Free?
Definitely! For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the red wine with grape juice or sparkling water, and the sangria will still be delicious and festive without the alcohol.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
You can mix in other fruits like oranges, pomegranates, or even berries to customize your sangria. Think of seasonal fruits that will complement the flavors — just be sure to core and slice them for easy serving!