This Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria is a fun mix of fruity flavors and a splash of sparkle! It combines tart cranberries with sweet apple cider for a drink that’s refreshing and festive.
Perfect for gatherings, this sangria is like a hug in a glass. Just toss in some fresh fruits, pour in the cider and wine, and relax—easy peasy! I love sipping it while cozying up on chilly evenings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: A good Merlot or Pinot Noir works nicely for this sangria. If you prefer something lighter, you can try a rosé. For a non-alcoholic version, swap wine with sparkling grape juice, or use non-alcoholic red wine.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider adds a wonderful sweet and tart flavor. You can replace it with apple juice in a pinch, but cider will give you that richer autumn taste.
Fresh Cranberries: These not only add flavor but also a beautiful color. If you can’t find fresh ones, use frozen cranberries; just don’t thaw them first—they’ll add a nice chill to your drink!
Apples: Any type of apple works well here. I prefer Honeycrisp for their sweetness, but Granny Smith apples can add a nice tart bite. Feel free to mix different types!
Cinnamon Sticks: These add a lovely spice, but ground cinnamon is a quick alternative. If you use ground cinnamon, add a pinch directly to the pitcher.
How Do I Make Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria Pop with Flavor?
Infusing flavors is key in this recipe! Allowing the sangria to chill for a couple of hours (or overnight) helps meld the fruit and spices with the wine and cider.
- Combine all your ingredients in a pitcher.
- Stir gently so you don’t crush the cranberries and apples.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Overnight is even better!
- When serving, pour over ice and garnish to keep the drink refreshing.
Personal tip: I like to make a big batch before guests arrive so everyone can enjoy a glass at the same time! The longer it sits, the better it tastes.
Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Pinot Noir)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 large apple, cored and cut into small chunks or thin slices
- 1 lime, sliced (plus extra wedges for garnish)
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria takes about 10 minutes to prep, and you’ll want to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight). So, plan for a total time of about 2 hours and 10 minutes, perfect for allowing those lovely flavors to blend!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by pouring the entire bottle of red wine into a large pitcher. Next, add the apple cider. This combo is where the magic starts!
2. Add the Fruits:
Now, toss in the fresh cranberries, apple chunks, and lime slices. These will infuse your sangria with delicious fruity flavors. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything nicely.
3. Spice it Up:
Drop in your cinnamon sticks! They’ll add a warm, cozy spice to the mixture. Don’t crush them; just let them sit in the pitcher to infuse as it chills.
4. Chill Out:
Cover the pitcher and pop it in the fridge. Let the sangria chill for at least 2 hours, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight will make it even more flavorful!
5. Serve and Garnish:
When it’s time to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the chilled sangria over the ice, making sure to include some of the cranberries and apple pieces. For a pretty touch, garnish each glass with a fresh lime wedge and a sprig of rosemary if you’re using it.
6. Enjoy:
Your delicious Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria is ready to be enjoyed! Sip it slowly and savor the wonderful blend of flavors. It’s a perfect drink for sharing with friends and family during the holidays!
Can I Use White Wine Instead of Red Wine?
Absolutely! White wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can be a refreshing alternative. It will give the sangria a lighter and crisper taste, perfect for warmer days.
Can I Prepare This Sangria in Advance?
Yes! For best results, prepare the sangria up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to add the ice just before serving to keep it chilled!
How Do I Store Leftover Sangria?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the fruits start to look mushy, strain them out before serving again to keep it fresh.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
You can customize your sangria with other fruits like oranges, pears, or even pomegranate seeds. Just slice and add them into the mixture for a fun flavor twist!
