Nothing says fall quite like Apple Cider Sangria! This sweet, crisp, and cozy cocktail is the perfect drink for autumn celebrations, holiday dinners, or a relaxing evening at home. It combines the rich flavors of fresh apple cider, warm spices, and seasonal fruit with a splash of wine and brandy for a drink that feels like a celebration of autumn in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or sipping solo, this sangria is easy to make, totally customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s raise a glass to fall! 🍂
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 mL) of white wine (Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay work well)
- 2 cups apple cider (fresh and unfiltered if possible)
- 1/2 cup brandy or apple brandy
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish and flavor)
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 2-3 star anise (optional, for extra spice and aroma)
- Club soda or ginger ale (optional, for topping before serving)
Tools Needed
- Large pitcher
- Wooden spoon (for stirring)
- Paring knife (for slicing fruit)
- Measuring cups
- Glasses for serving
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Wine: A dry or semi-dry white wine works best to balance the sweetness of the cider and fruit. Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc are ideal choices.
- Chill Time: Let the sangria sit in the fridge for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the sweetness by adding maple syrup or honey, or leave it out if you prefer a less sweet drink.
- Add Bubbles: For a sparkling twist, top each glass with a splash of club soda, ginger ale, or even prosecco before serving.
- Use Seasonal Fruit: While apples and oranges are classic, feel free to add pears, pomegranate seeds, or even persimmons for extra autumn flair.
Substitutions and Variations
- Red Wine: Swap white wine for a fruity red like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for a rich, bold sangria.
- Alcohol-Free: Use sparkling apple cider and orange juice instead of wine and brandy for a kid-friendly or mocktail version.
- Spiced Version: Add cloves, allspice, or cardamom pods for an extra layer of cozy warmth.
- Honey Crisp: Replace maple syrup with honey for a naturally sweet twist.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sangria Base
In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, apple cider, brandy, and orange juice. Stir well to combine. If you prefer a sweeter sangria, stir in the maple syrup.
2. Add the Fruit and Spices
Add the sliced apples, oranges, fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and star anise to the pitcher. Stir gently to mix the fruit and spices evenly.
3. Chill the Sangria
Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the fruit to infuse the liquid.
4. Serve with Optional Fizz
When ready to serve, give the sangria a quick stir. Pour into glasses filled with ice, making sure each glass gets some fruit. Top with a splash of club soda, ginger ale, or prosecco for extra sparkle, if desired. Garnish with additional fruit slices or a cinnamon stick.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Apple cider sangria tastes even better after sitting for several hours or overnight, so feel free to prep it the day before your gathering.
- Just add any bubbly mixers (like soda or ginger ale) right before serving to keep the fizz fresh.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftover sangria in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the fruit may soften over time.
- Remove any added club soda or ginger ale before storing, as the fizz will flatten.
Conclusion
This Apple Cider Sangria is a must-have for any fall gathering or cozy night at home. The combination of crisp apples, warm spices, and refreshing wine makes it the ultimate seasonal drink that’s both simple and impressive. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it solo, this sangria will leave you feeling warm and festive. Try it out, and let me know in the comments how you made it your own. Cheers to fall flavors! 🍂☕