How to Make the Best Apple Cider Sangria

Apple cider sangria is the perfect way to savor the flavors of fall in a glass. With its crisp apples, warm spices, and a splash of your favorite wine, this seasonal twist on a classic drink is as refreshing as it is cozy. Ready to impress your guests or simply treat yourself? Let’s dive into the easiest, tastiest recipe you’ll be making all autumn long.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 1 cup club soda
• 1 half cup brandy
• 1 apple thinly sliced
• 1 pear thinly sliced
• 1 orange sliced into rounds
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Equipment

• Large pitcher
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pour the white wine into a large pitcher. Choose a wine that is crisp and not overly sweet to let the cider and fruit shine.
2. Step 2: Stir in the apple cider and brandy. I like to use a smooth brandy with caramel notes—it deepens the fall flavors.
3. Step 3: Add the thin slices of apple, pear, and orange. I prefer Honeycrisp apples and ripe Bartlett pears for their sweetness and texture.
4. Step 4: Toss in the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves. These will give your sangria that unmistakable spiced aroma.
5. Step 5: Stir in the maple syrup. It adds just a hint of warmth and sweetness without overpowering the fruitiness.
6. Step 6: Chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is essential—it lets the fruit infuse the liquid and the spices bloom.
7. Step 7: Just before serving, pour in the club soda and stir gently. This gives it a bit of fizz and keeps it light and refreshing.
8. Step 8: Serve over ice in glasses or mason jars, making sure to include a few pieces of fruit in each glass. It looks beautiful and tastes even better after soaking in flavor.

Nutrition per serving

Description

Apple cider sangria is like autumn in a glass. Crisp and refreshing yet cozy and rich, it tastes like golden leaves falling on a brisk afternoon. The first sip delivers a harmony of sweet apples, juicy pears, spiced wine, and a hint of citrus—balanced with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and the effervescence of club soda. Whether you are gathered around a fire pit or hosting a harvest-themed party, this sangria captures the essence of the season and adds a festive sparkle to any occasion.

This drink offers the familiar flavors of apple cider with a refined twist. Fruit infuses into spiced white wine to create a beautiful medley of textures and layers. Pear slices and orange rounds float like confetti, inviting guests to fill their glasses and savor something that feels both nostalgic and new. It is the kind of drink that invites conversation and leaves a memorable impression long after the last sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple cider sangria is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for entertaining during the holidays or on cozy weekends. No special tools or skills are required—just a pitcher, a cutting board, and a few minutes of prep time. It is also easily customizable, allowing you to swap wines or fruits to suit your taste or what happens to be in your fridge.

Beyond its ease, this sangria is crowd-pleasing and visually stunning. The sliced fruit not only adds flavor but also creates an inviting look that draws people in. It is a lower-alcohol option compared to many cocktails, making it perfect for slow sipping over laughter and stories. Serve it cold for a refreshing contrast to warm fall dishes like roast turkey or butternut squash soup.

Serving and Storage Tips

Apple cider sangria is best served chilled. After mixing, allow it to rest in the refrigerator for at least two hours so the flavors can meld and the fruit has time to infuse the wine. For best results, make it the same day you plan to serve it.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to three days. Note that the texture of the fruit may soften over time but will still be flavorful. This sangria is not ideal for freezing or reheating due to the nature of the ingredients. If making ahead, prepare all components except the club soda and add that just before serving to maintain its fizz.

Course, Cuisine, Keywords

Drink, American, Sangria, Fall Cocktail, Apple Cider, White Wine, Thanksgiving, Holiday Drink

Recipe Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine and brandy with additional apple cider and a touch of white grape juice. Use honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup. Try garnishing glasses with a cinnamon stick or fresh apple slice for a lovely presentation.

FAQ

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Apple Cider Sangria

Apple cider sangria is like autumn in a glass. Crisp, refreshing, and cozy, this festive drink blends sweet apples, juicy pears, and spiced white wine. With a hint of citrus, cinnamon warmth, and club soda fizz, it's perfect for entertaining during the fall or holiday season.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Drink

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 190 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 bottle dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 1 cup club soda
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1 apple thinly sliced
• 1 pear thinly sliced
• 1 orange sliced into rounds
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Instructions

 

• Pour the white wine into a large pitcher.
• Add apple cider and brandy to the pitcher and stir gently.
• Add the sliced apple, pear, and orange rounds.
• Drop in the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves for aromatic spice.
• Stir in the maple syrup to add a touch of sweetness.
• Refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
• Just before serving, add the club soda and give a gentle stir.
• Serve over ice in glasses, making sure to add some fruit slices to each glass.

Nutrition

Calories: 190kcalCarbohydrates: 24gSodium: 10mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20g

Keyword Sangria, Fall Cocktail, Apple Cider, White Wine, Thanksgiving, Holiday Drink, American

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