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Why I Love This Sangria Recipe
When the leaves are just starting to turn in color and there’s a bit of crisp coolness in the air, there’s nothing that feels more fitting than a cup of apple cider. It’s the perfect reminder of the season, but there’s a definite way to make it even better: by making it a sangria! This alcoholic drink is the perfect blend of seasonal flavors that warms the soul and is ideal for serving at any fall party.
It’s simple to prepare, and yet it feels special and celebratory. The combo of apple cider, apple brandy, and white wine creates a balance that’s both totally sippable and comforting.
Here are 5 reasons to love this recipe:
- Seasonal flavors – Combines all of the best of fall: apple cider, citrus, and warm spices.
- Easy preparation – Simple to mix together, making it perfect for parties.
- Make-ahead friendly – Can be prepared up to 3 hours in advance, which actually makes everything meld together even more!
- Visually appealing – Garnished with fresh fruit and spices for a festive presentation.
- Versatile – It’s great for both casual get-togethers and something a bit more formal.
Apple Cider Sangria Ingredients
Just a few simple ingredients bring this festive fall sangria to life.
- Apple cider – Sweet and perfectly fall, this is the base of the sangria.
- White wine – Adds crisp, bright flavor to balance the sweetness.
- Calvados – An apple brandy that deepens the apple notes while also adding some warmth.
- Fresh orange juice – Brings in a citrus note that pairs well with the apple.
- Optional garnishes – From apple slices and orange slices to cranberries and cinnamon sticks, take your pick (or use them all)!
The full amount of each ingredient can be found in the recipe card below.
How to Make Apple Cider Sangria
Mix it, chill it, and it’s ready to serve:
Combine liquids – In a large pitcher or punch bowl, mix together the apple cider, white wine, calvados, and fresh orange juice.
Add garnishes – Stir in the apple slices, orange slices, dried cranberries, and cinnamon sticks. Refrigerate the sangria for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Pour into glasses, ensuring each serving includes some of the fruit and a cinnamon stick
Recipe Tips
- Choose the correct wine – Opt for a dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc preferred, but Pinot Grigio works too) to prevent the sangria from becoming overly sweet. There will already be some sweetness from the orange juice and apple cider.
- Fresh juice matters – Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
- Make it ahead – Preparing the sangria a few hours in advance allows the flavors to develop more fully. It also allows the added garnishes to soften slightly, allowing their flavors to infuse the drink.
- Garnish creatively – You really can add whatever garnishes make you feel the season. Consider adding pomegranate seeds or star anise for an extra festive touch.
- Serve cold – Ensure the sangria is well-chilled before serving, and consider adding ice cubes to each glass, if needed.
Follow These Tips
Serving & Storage
Serve the apple cider sangria in clear glasses to show off the beautiful fruit and spices. It’s perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday parties (think Thanksgiving or Christmas), or simply enjoying on a cozy evening.
Store any of the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remove the fruit if storing longer to prevent it from becoming overly soft. If any ice was added to the pitcher, make sure to strain it out so that it doesn’t water everything down.
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Apple Cider Sangria
Ingredients
- 3 cups apple cider
- 1 bottle (750 mL) white wine
- 1 cup calvados
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
For the garnishes
- apple slices
- orange slices
- cranberries
- cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Mix the liquids: In a pitcher or bowl, stir together the apple cider, white wine, calvados, and orange juice.3 cups apple cider, 1 bottle (750 mL) white wine, 1 cup calvados, 1 cup fresh orange juice
- Add the garnishes: Add the apple slices, orange slices, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks, and stir everything together. Let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine, then serve chilled.apple slices, orange slices, cranberries, cinnamon sticks
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Did you make this? Leave a comment below!
Styling: Addelyn Evans | Photography: Dera Burreson
This was delicious. I did use 4 cups of apple cider versus the 3. The only negative was the Calvados was $36.00 per bottle!!! but I think it makes the sangria. Friends said it was the best sangria they have ever had.
What white wine is best for the apple cider sangaria?
Love your ideas and recipes. What was the name of the New Zealand white wine that you used in your sangria?
Love watching your videos, you are an amazing young man , keep up the good work you are doing. Cherish your mum, what a blessing.
Love the show !! Look forward every day to see your smiling face .
Love watching and learning .
You make it all so simple.
I am a visual learner!