As the leaves turn vibrant hues and the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful apple cider sangria.
This seasonal twist on a classic sangria combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of fall fruits, and the tang of apple cider to create a drink that’s both festive and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just looking to enjoy a cozy evening at home, this apple cider sangria recipe is sure to be a hit. Here’s how to make it!
Ingredients
- 2 cinnamon sticks, plus more for serving
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp apples work well)
- 1 medium pear, thinly sliced
- 1 medium orange, thinly sliced
- 2/3 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 (750 ml) bottle white wine (Pinot Grigio is a great choice)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Club soda, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit and Spices
- Place the cinnamon sticks into a large pitcher. Add the thinly sliced apples, pear, and orange, along with the pomegranate seeds. The combination of these fresh fruits will infuse your sangria with vibrant flavors.
- Mix the Sangria
- Pour the bottle of white wine into the pitcher with the fruit and cinnamon sticks. Add the apple cider, brandy, orange juice, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Chill the Sangria
- Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the sangria to chill for at least 3 hours, but for the best flavor, let it sit for 6-8 hours or even up to 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld together.
- Serve the Sangria
- When you’re ready to serve, pour the sangria and fruit into glasses. Add a splash of club soda to each glass for a fizzy, refreshing finish. Garnish with a cinnamon stick if desired.
- Enjoy!
- Your apple cider sangria is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve it chilled and savor the delightful blend of fall flavors with every sip.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Cider Sangria
- Wine Choice: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio works well, but you can also experiment with other whites or even a dry rosé.
- Fruit Variations: Feel free to add other seasonal fruits like cranberries or even a splash of pomegranate juice for added depth.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sangria, you can adjust the amount of orange juice or add a bit of honey or maple syrup.
This apple cider sangria is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening, this drink will add a festive touch to any occasion. Cheers to a delicious autumn! 🍂🍹
