How To Make Apple Cider Sangria

Apple Cider Sangria: The Perfect Fall Drink to Sip and Savor

As the crisp days of September roll in, it's time to embrace the flavors of fall. One drink that stands out and captures the essence of the season is Apple Cider Sangria. This delightful and refreshing cocktail combines the sweet and tangy taste of apple cider with the fruitiness of wine and the warmth of fall spices. It’s perfect for any autumn gathering, whether it’s a cozy evening with friends or a festive fall celebration. Let's dive into how to make this delicious drink and why it deserves a spot on your fall menu!

Why Apple Cider Sangria?

Apple Cider Sangria is the ultimate fall drink because it balances the freshness of crisp apples with the deep, comforting notes of cinnamon and cloves. It’s versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your taste—whether you prefer a sweeter sangria or one with a bit more zing. The addition of wine and a splash of brandy or whiskey elevates this drink, making it a sophisticated choice for adults looking to enjoy a flavorful yet easy-to-make beverage.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a pitcher of Apple Cider Sangria, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups of apple cider

1 bottle of white wine (like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay)

1/2 cup of brandy or whiskey (optional, for an extra kick)

1/4 cup of orange juice

1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)

2 apples, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are great choices)

1 orange, thinly sliced

1 cinnamon stick

3-4 whole cloves

1/2 cup of club soda or ginger ale (for a fizzy finish)

Optional garnish: cinnamon-sugar rim, fresh cranberries, or star anise

How to Make Apple Cider Sangria

Prepare the Fruit Base: Start by thinly slicing the apples and orange. Place them in a large pitcher. These fresh fruits will add a lovely depth and brightness to the sangria.

Mix the Liquids: Pour in the apple cider, white wine, orange juice, and brandy or whiskey (if using). Stir gently to combine.

Add Sweetness and Spices: Add honey or maple syrup to the pitcher and stir until it’s well combined. Drop in a cinnamon stick and a few whole cloves to infuse the sangria with warm, spicy notes that scream "fall."

Chill and Infuse: Refrigerate the sangria for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the more the fruits will soak up the liquid and release their flavors.

Serve with Fizz: Just before serving, add the club soda or ginger ale to the pitcher for a bit of bubbly fun. If you want to get extra fancy, you can rim your glasses with a cinnamon-sugar mix.

Garnish and Enjoy: Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice, making sure to get some fruit slices in each glass. Garnish with additional fresh cranberries, a cinnamon stick, or a star anise for a decorative touch.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Cider Sangria

Choose the Right Wine: A dry or semi-dry white wine works best to balance the sweetness of the apple cider and fruit.

Customize Your Fruit: Feel free to add pears, pomegranates, or cranberries to the mix for a unique twist.

Make It Ahead: Apple Cider Sangria tastes better the longer it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for parties.

Why You'll Love It

Apple Cider Sangria is not just a drink; it’s an experience. It brings together the best of fall flavors in a single, refreshing glass. The combination of fresh apples, citrus, wine, and spices creates a drink that’s both cozy and invigorating—perfect for enjoying the beautiful change of seasons. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, enjoying a quiet night in, or looking for a creative cocktail to share with friends, Apple Cider Sangria is the ultimate drink to sip and savor.

So, as the leaves start to turn and the air gets cooler, grab your favorite cozy sweater, mix up a batch of Apple Cider Sangria, and toast to the beauty of fall. Cheers! 🍎🥂