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Cozy Apple Cider Sangria

Cozy Apple Cider Sangria - featured image

A warm, spiced, and forgiving autumn drink made with red wine, fresh apple cider, and seasonal fruits. Perfect for cozy nights, parties, or as a non-alcoholic option.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bottle (750ml) Red Wine (Pinot Noir or Merlot recommended)
  • 1 bottle (64oz) Fresh Apple Cider (100% juice, unfiltered)
  • 1/2 cup Brandy or Bourbon (optional)
  • 2 large Apples (mix of tart and sweet, e.g., Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), sliced into wedges
  • 1 large Orange, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 large Pear (Bosc or Anjou), sliced
  • 2 large Cinnamon Sticks
  • 2 Star Anise pods (optional)
  • 45 Whole Cloves

Instructions

  1. Wash the apples, pears, and oranges thoroughly. Slice the apples and pears into thin, uniform wedges and the oranges into half-moons.
  2. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, pour in the red wine and add the brandy or bourbon if using. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Pour in the fresh apple cider and add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. Stir well.
  4. Add the sliced apples, pears, and oranges to the pitcher. Press them down gently to ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
  5. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let it chill and steep for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Give the sangria a gentle stir before serving. Ladle into glasses with ice (optional), ensuring each glass gets a piece of fruit.
  7. Garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or apple slice if desired.

Notes

Do not rush the steeping process; flavors need at least 2 hours to meld. Use whole spices, not ground, to avoid grittiness. If the sangria is too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or dry wine. If too tart, add honey or simple syrup. For a non-alcoholic version, omit wine and brandy, add extra cider, and top with sparkling water or ginger ale. Serve well-chilled.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider sangria, fall drinks, autumn cocktail, red wine sangria, cozy drinks, party drinks, non-alcoholic sangria, easy cocktail