There’s nothing I love more in the fall than mixing up a fresh pitcher of apple cider sangria. This easy alcoholic drink becomes my go-to drink for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night at home.
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Apple Cider Sangria Recipe
Apple cider sangria is a festive, crowd-pleasing recipe for the fall season. It combines sparkling apple cider, crisp white wine, brandy, and warm cinnamon for a true taste of autumn. The combination creates a fruity, bright, and spicy drink.
This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fire, around the dinner table, or at festive weekend brunches. What makes this sangria special is how the apple cider’s gentle sweetness mellows the wine and lets the flavors of fresh fruit shine through.
Versatile and inviting, apple cider sangria is just as great for impromptu get-togethers. I let the fruit soak up the spices and wine in the fridge for 1 hour, but you can soak it overnight.
This cocktail can accompany brunch favorites like pumpkin pancakes, apple cinnamon muffins, or a warm cinnamon roll. For dessert, apple crisp, pear tart, or caramel cheesecake are great choices.
For heartier fare, try roasted turkey or ham, sage stuffing, or maple-glazed pork tenderloin. The drink’s brightness also pairs well with butternut squash soup, crispy fried chicken, or sweet potato casserole.
The apple cider sangria also goes well with cheese platters, especially those featuring aged cheddar, brie, or smoked gouda, and works perfectly with savory charcuterie boards. Light appetizers like baked brie with honey, apple and walnut salad, or cranberry pecan crostini also make for balanced, festive pairings.
Here’s how to make the apple cider sangria
Apple Cider Sangria
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 bottle (750 ml) white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup brandy or apple-flavored liqueur optional
- 1 apple thinly sliced
- 1 orange thinly sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup optional, to taste
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, white wine, and brandy.
- Add apple and orange slices along with the cinnamon stick.
- Stir gently and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Serve over ice and garnish with extra fruit slices if desired.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace wine with sparkling apple juice.
- Add a splash of soda water for a fizzy twist.
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Variations
There are many variations of the apple cider sangria. Whether you prefer simple or bold flavors, these recipe versions have you covered.
- Cranberry Addition blends apple cider with tart cranberry juice and fresh cranberries. This gives the sangria a vibrant color and tangy twist.
- Citrus-Infused Sangria adds orange and lemon slices to brighten the sangria with fresh, zesty citrus notes that balance the sweetness of the cider.
- Bourbon Version uses a splash of bourbon or whiskey instead of brandy for a richer, deeper warmth.
- Pomegranate Apple Sangria features pomegranate seeds and juice for a touch of tartness and a burst of color throughout the glass.
- Ginger-Spice Sangria adds ginger brandy or ginger beer for a gentle spice that enhances the cozy fall flavors.
- Non-alcoholic Version replaces white wine with sparkling water or club soda for a family-friendly, refreshing version.