Apple Cider Sangria: A Festive Fall Cocktail That’s Bursting with Flavor

There’s something magical about the combination of crisp, tangy apple cider and rich, fruity wine—especially when spiced just right. Apple Cider Sangria is the ultimate fall cocktail that brings together the best flavors of the season. Packed with fresh fruits like apples and oranges, a splash of brandy, and a dash of cinnamon, this sangria is the perfect drink for everything from Thanksgiving dinner to a cozy evening by the fire.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours (recommended)
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Number of Servings: 6-8 servings
• Serving Size: 1 glass (about 8 oz)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 0g
• Dietary Info: Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free (check wine label).

Ingredients List

• 1 bottle (750ml) dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
• 2 cups apple cider (fresh or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
• 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 2 apples, thinly sliced (choose a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Gala and Granny Smith)
• 1 orange, thinly sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4-5 whole cloves
• 1 star anise (optional)
• Ice (for serving)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Fruit and Spices:
   Start by washing and slicing the apples and orange into thin rounds or wedges. This will ensure they release their juices into the sangria while adding beautiful color and flavor. Place the fruit in a large pitcher or bowl.
2. Combine the Liquids:
   In the same pitcher or bowl, add the bottle of white wine, apple cider, brandy, and orange liqueur. Stir to combine. If you prefer a sweeter sangria, you can add maple syrup to taste—just start with 1 tablespoon and adjust from there.
3. Add the Spices:
   Drop the cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and star anise (if using) into the sangria mixture. These spices will infuse the sangria with a warm, cozy aroma that’s perfect for fall.
4. Chill the Sangria:
   Cover the pitcher and refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, giving you a perfectly balanced drink. If you’re short on time, you can serve it after 30 minutes, but the longer it sits, the better it tastes!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   To serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the sangria over the top. Make sure to include some of the fruit slices in each glass for a festive touch. If desired, garnish with extra cinnamon sticks or orange slices.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Make It Ahead: Apple Cider Sangria is a fantastic make-ahead drink. You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill overnight to enhance the flavors even more.
• Wine Choices: While a dry white wine is typically used for apple cider sangria, you can also experiment with a sparkling wine for a fizzy twist, or a rosé wine for a fruitier version.
• Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your apple cider and personal preference, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup or sweetener to suit your taste.
• Serving Variations: For an extra festive touch, serve your sangria in mason jars or glass mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, apple slice, or even a few cranberries for a seasonal pop of color.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: To make this drink alcohol-free, simply omit the brandy and orange liqueur, and increase the amount of apple cider. You can also add a splash of sparkling water or soda for a fizzy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use red wine instead of white wine?
A: Yes! While traditional apple cider sangria uses white wine, red wine can create a rich, deep flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices and cider. A light red wine like Pinot Noir or Merlot would work well in this recipe.

Q: Can I prepare this sangria the night before?
A: Absolutely! In fact, preparing the sangria the night before allows the flavors to develop even more. Just cover the pitcher tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Q: How long can I store leftover sangria?
A: Leftover sangria can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The fruit and spices will continue to infuse the wine, making it even more flavorful over time.

Q: Can I make this sangria with other fruit?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add seasonal fruits like pears, cranberries, or pomegranate seeds. You can also try adding a few slices of fresh ginger for an extra spicy kick.

This Apple Cider Sangria is the perfect drink to warm up your fall gatherings. With its delightful combination of crisp cider, fruity wine, and cozy spices, it’s a crowd-pleasing cocktail that brings the flavors of autumn to every sip. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, enjoying a cozy evening with friends, or toasting to the season, this sangria is sure to become a favorite fall tradition.