Apple Cider Sangria: The Ultimate Autumn & Holiday Drink Recipe

As the leaves turn golden and the air crisps, there’s nothing quite like a drink that captures the essence of fall. This apple cider sangria is the quintessential autumn beverage, perfectly blending sweet white wine with the vibrant, comforting flavors of freshly pressed apple cider, aromatic spices, and a touch of maple sweetness. Whether you’re gathering for a spirited tailgate, cozying up by a bonfire, hosting Thanksgiving dinner, or simply sharing a moment with a friend, this delightful concoction is sure to enchant. It’s light, inviting, and brimming with cozy autumn charm, making it the ideal adult beverage to celebrate the season’s bounty.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Apple Cider Sangria

This isn’t just another cocktail; it’s a sensory experience that embodies everything wonderful about autumn. Here’s why this apple cider sangria recipe is destined to become your new seasonal favorite:

A Symphony of Incredible Autumn Flavors

Imagine the comforting embrace of a crisp autumn day, translated into a drink. This sangria achieves just that. It’s chock-full of rich, seasonal goodness: the crisp, sweet tang of fresh apples and juicy oranges, the robust warmth of ground cinnamon, clove, and ginger, all beautifully complemented by the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup. Each sip evokes images of flannel shirts, crackling bonfires, joyful apple orchard visits, and nostalgic hayrides. It’s literally like drinking autumn in a glass, offering a refreshing and uniquely seasonal taste that provides a welcome break from the ubiquitous pumpkin spice craze.

Perfectly Balanced and Customizable Alcohol Content

One of the standout features of this apple cider sangria is its thoughtful balance. We’ve crafted a recipe that’s a little lighter on the alcohol content, making it incredibly approachable for various occasions and palates. By blending white wine with ample apple cider and a splash of carbonated water, we ensure there’s plenty of liquid to serve a group generously without being overly potent. This allows for a delightful, refreshing experience that can be enjoyed over a longer period. However, if you prefer a bolder kick, this recipe is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to infuse your sangria with additional spirits to suit your taste. Brandy is a classic choice for sangria and would be absolutely incredible here – consider plain brandy or opt for apple or spiced varieties to enhance the fall profile. Other fantastic options include whiskey (plain, apple, maple, or cinnamon flavors), rich caramel liqueur, or the citrusy complexity of Grand Marnier. Just remember that adding dark spirits may slightly deepen the sangria’s beautiful golden hue.

Effortless Entertaining with Make-Ahead Convenience

When hosting, the last thing you want is to be stuck behind the bar mixing individual drinks. This apple cider sangria is a true batch cocktail, designed for stress-free entertaining. You can prepare it hours, or even a day, in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and deepen over time. This means less work on the day of your event and more time enjoying your guests and the festive atmosphere. Simply pour from a pitcher, carafe, or punch bowl, and let the good times flow! Its stunning presentation, adorned with fresh fruit and cinnamon sticks, makes it an attractive centerpiece for any autumn gathering.

What Exactly is Sangria? A Quick Dive into its Origins

Essential Ingredients for Your Apple Cider Sangria

Crafting this delicious sangria requires a simple yet impactful selection of ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this autumn masterpiece:

The Core Components:

• White Wine: Choose a dry or off-dry white wine that you enjoy drinking on its own. Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or an unoaked Chardonnay work beautifully. For a touch of sparkle, consider a dry Prosecco or Cava. A standard 750-milliliter bottle is usually sufficient.
• Apple Cider: Crucial for that authentic fall flavor! Opt for real, unfiltered apple cider, not apple juice, for the best taste and aroma. A 32-ounce bottle (about 4 cups) is ideal.
• Fresh Orange: One medium orange, providing vibrant citrus notes and a beautiful garnish.
• Fresh Apples: Two medium apples of any crisp variety. Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Cosmic Crisp are excellent choices, offering a balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Maple Syrup: Approximately 1 ½ tablespoons, plus more to taste. Pure maple syrup is preferred for its rich, earthy sweetness that complements the autumn theme perfectly. Avoid imitation syrups.
• Ground Spices: ½ teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, ground clove, and ground ginger. These warm spices are the heart of the fall flavor profile.
• Cinnamon Sticks: 3-4 cinnamon sticks for infusing the sangria and an additional 8 for individual glass garnishes.
• Carbonated Water: 1 cup of unflavored seltzer or sparkling water to add a refreshing fizz just before serving.

Optional Serving Suggestions for Extra Flair:

• Extra Orange Slices: For garnishing individual glasses.
• Extra Apple Slices: Also perfect for garnishing or even freezing to use as flavorful ice cubes.
• Grapes: Fresh grapes can add a lovely touch and an extra burst of fruitiness.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Perfect Apple Cider Sangria

Making this incredible apple cider sangria is straightforward. Follow these simple instructions to create a truly memorable drink:

1. Prepare the Fruit: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice one medium orange and two medium apples into very thin discs, approximately ⅛-inch thick. The thinness ensures better flavor release. Place these fruit slices into a large pitcher (or a punch bowl, or a drink dispenser if serving a crowd).
2. Season the Fruit: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground clove, and ½ teaspoon of ground ginger directly over the fruit in the pitcher. Using a long-handled spoon, gently stir the fruit and spices together until the fruit is thoroughly coated in the fragrant spice blend. This step helps infuse the fruit with warm, inviting flavors.
3. Combine Liquids and Sweetener: Pour in the entire 750-milliliter bottle of white wine, followed by the 32-ounce bottle of apple cider, and 1 ½ tablespoons of maple syrup. Stir all the ingredients well until they are fully incorporated and the maple syrup has dissolved. Then, add 3-4 whole cinnamon sticks to the mixture for deeper flavor infusion.
4. Chill for Infusion: Cover your pitcher, punch bowl, or dispenser with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. This chilling step is crucial! Allow the sangria to chill for at least 2 hours. For the most developed and robust flavors, chilling for 4-8 hours or even overnight is highly recommended.
5. Prepare Garnishes (Optional): Just before you plan to serve the sangria, slice the remaining medium orange or medium apple into small wedges. These will be used to garnish individual glasses, adding both visual appeal and an extra touch of fresh fruit.
6. Add Carbonation and Adjust Sweetness: Remove the pitcher from the refrigerator. Add 1 cup of carbonated water (seltzer or sparkling water) and stir well to incorporate it evenly throughout the sangria. At this point, taste the sangria. If you prefer it sweeter, stir in additional maple syrup, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired level of sweetness.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once you are satisfied with the sangria’s sweetness and flavor profile, pour the mixture into individual glasses. If desired, add one cinnamon stick to each glass for an aromatic garnish. Finally, adorn each glass with the prepared orange wedges or apple wedges and serve immediately.

Expert Tips for the Best Sangria Experience

Elevate your apple cider sangria from good to unforgettable with these tried-and-true chef’s tips and helpful notes:

The Crucial Chill Time

Do not rush this step! Allowing the sangria to sit for several hours (ideally 4-8, or even overnight) before serving is absolutely vital. This extended chill time gives the natural juices from the orange and apples ample opportunity to blend harmoniously with the spices, white wine, apple cider, and maple syrup. The result is a more deeply flavored, complex, and integrated sangria that truly captures the spirit of autumn.

Avoid Dilution: The Ice Rule

A common mistake that can ruin a batch cocktail is adding ice directly to the pitcher or punch bowl. Over time, that ice will inevitably melt, watering down the entire batch of sangria and diminishing its delicious flavor. Instead, always use ice only in the individual serving glasses. For an even better alternative, consider freezing extra slices of oranges, apples, and/or grapes. Add these frozen fruit pieces to the pitcher or individual glasses. As they slowly defrost, they’ll release more fruit juice into the drinks, keeping them cold while enhancing the flavor, rather than diluting it with plain water. If you go this route, remember to use additional fruit specifically for freezing, separate from the fruit quantity required for the sangria recipe itself, to ensure you don’t lose any of the original batch’s intended flavor.

Apple Varieties for Optimal Flavor

While any crisp apple works, certain varieties can enhance your sangria. We recommend a combination of Honeycrisp and Cosmic Crisp apples for their excellent balance of sweetness and tartness, and their firm texture that holds up well in the liquid. Fuji or Gala apples are also great choices. Consider a mix of sweet and slightly tart apples to add depth.

Customizing Alcohol Content

This recipe provides a wonderful foundation. If you desire a stronger drink, feel free to increase the amount of white wine or add supplemental spirits. As mentioned, brandy (plain, apple, ginger, or spiced flavors), whiskey (plain, apple, maple, or cinnamon flavors), caramel liqueur, or Grand Marnier are excellent choices. Be mindful that adding darker liquors may alter the sangria’s color, giving it a deeper, richer hue than the lighter golden tone pictured.

Sweetness to Your Liking

Taste the sangria after it has chilled and the carbonated water has been added. Maple syrup is easy to adjust, so add a little more if you prefer a sweeter beverage. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the flavors if you find it too sweet or want to add a zesty edge.

Garnish with Creativity

Beyond the classic orange and apple slices and cinnamon sticks, consider other garnishes. Fresh cranberries can add a festive pop of color, a star anise pod can introduce another layer of warm spice, or a sprig of fresh rosemary can offer an unexpected aromatic touch.

Variations & Customizations to Spark Your Creativity

This apple cider sangria recipe is incredibly versatile. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

• Spiced Sangria Boost: For an even deeper spice profile, consider adding whole spices directly to the pitcher during the chilling phase. Star anise, whole cloves, or even a few cardamom pods can infuse unique aromas.
• Sparkling White Wine Sangria: Instead of a still white wine, use a dry Prosecco, Cava, or Champagne for an extra celebratory bubbly kick from the start. You can still add carbonated water at the end for an extra lift.
• Berry & Cranberry Bliss: Add a cup of fresh cranberries or mixed berries along with the apples and oranges. Cranberries are particularly festive for holiday gatherings and add a beautiful tartness.
• Ginger Zing: A splash of ginger ale in place of some carbonated water, or even a few thin slices of fresh ginger added to the pitcher during chilling, can give your sangria a delightful spicy kick.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: To make a family-friendly mocktail, simply substitute the white wine with sparkling white grape juice, non-alcoholic cider, or even a good quality ginger ale. It will still be packed with incredible fall flavors!
• Peach & Pear Fusion: While apples and oranges are classic, sliced peaches or pears can be a wonderful addition, especially if you enjoy their softer textures and subtle sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Any Autumn Occasion

This apple cider sangria is the perfect companion for a wide array of fall and winter festivities:

• Tailgating Parties: Easy to transport and serve, it’s a refreshing choice for pre-game celebrations.
• Bonfires & Campfires: The warm spices make it a cozy drink to sip around a crackling fire.
• Thanksgiving Dinner: A festive and flavorful alternative to traditional wine or cocktails, perfectly complementing the holiday feast.
• Holiday Gatherings: Ideal for Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve, or any festive occasion where a batch cocktail is appreciated.
• Cozy Evenings: Enjoy a glass with friends by the fireplace for a relaxed, intimate gathering.
• Brunch: For a festive brunch, especially during the fall, it makes a wonderful, slightly lighter alternative to mimosas.

Storage Tips for Leftover Sangria

Good news! This apple cider sangria stores wonderfully, making it even more convenient:

• Refrigeration: Any leftover sangria can be stored in an airtight container, such as a large mason jar or a bottle with a tight-fitting lid, in the refrigerator.
• Shelf Life: It will remain fresh and delicious for up to 1 week after preparation.
• Carbonation Note: While the flavor will deepen beautifully, the carbonated water will lose its fizz over time. The drink will still taste fantastic, but if you prefer the effervescence, you can add a fresh splash of carbonated water to individual glasses before serving leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Apple Cider Sangria

Can I make this sangria ahead of time?

Absolutely! This sangria is actually best when made ahead of time. Prepare it at least 2 hours in advance, or ideally 4-8 hours (or even overnight) to allow the flavors to fully meld and infuse. Just add the carbonated water right before serving.

What kind of white wine is best for this recipe?

A dry or off-dry white wine that you enjoy drinking on its own works wonderfully. Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or an unoaked Chardonnay are excellent choices. If you prefer a sparkling sangria, opt for a dry Prosecco or Cava.

Can I use red wine instead of white wine?

While you certainly can use red wine, it would create a different flavor profile, leaning more towards a traditional red wine sangria with apple notes. For the bright, crisp taste of this specific apple cider sangria, white wine is recommended. If using red, consider a lighter-bodied red like Pinot Noir or Grenache.

What if I don’t have apple cider? Can I use apple juice?

You can substitute apple juice, but be aware that it will result in a sweeter, less complex flavor. Apple cider typically has a richer, more robust apple flavor and a slightly cloudier appearance, which contributes significantly to the sangria’s taste and aesthetic. If using juice, you might want to reduce the maple syrup initially and adjust to taste.

How long does homemade sangria last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this apple cider sangria will last for up to one week. The fresh fruit will soften over time, but the flavors will continue to be delicious.

More Refreshing Drinks to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed this delightful sangria, be sure to check out these other fantastic drink recipes from our collection:

• Perfect Cinnamon Apple Cider Mimosa
• Cranberry Margaritas (by the Glass or by the Pitcher)
• Paleo Sangria (Spanish Style)
• Peach White Wine Sangria
• Champagne Jello Shots
• Elderberry Hot Toddy
• POG Juice Mimosas
• Halloween Margaritas “Monsteritas” (Cucumber Jalapeño)

Apple Cider Sangria

Prep: 15 minutes

Cook: 0 minutes

Chill: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 15 minutes

The perfect combination of spices, booze, and warm autumn flavors, this sangria is great for potlucks, holidays, parties, or just enjoying with a friend!

Cheryl Malik

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8 sangrias

Ingredients

For the Apple Cider Sangria

• 1 medium orange (approximately 4-6 ounces)
• 2 medium apples (any variety, approximately 5-6 ounces each)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground clove
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 750-milliliter bottle white wine (any type, sparkling or not)
• 1 32-ounce bottle apple cider
• 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup (plus more to taste)
• 3-4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 cup carbonated water (seltzer or sparkling water)

Serving Suggestions (All Optional)

• 1 medium orange (approximately 4-6 ounces)
• 1 medium apple (approximately 4-6 ounces)
• 8 cinnamon sticks (1 per glass)

Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Large pitcher (or punch bowl, or drink dispenser)
• Long-handled spoon
• Plastic wrap (or lid for pitcher, punch bowl, or dispenser)
• Refrigerator

Instructions

1. With a sharp knife, slice 1 medium orange and 2 medium apples into very thin discs, approximately ⅛-inch thick. Place orange slices and apple slices in a large pitcher or punch bowl.
2. Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground clove, and ½ teaspoon ground ginger to the pitcher or punch bowl. Using a long-handled spoon, stir fruit and spices together until fruit is completely coated in spices.
3. Add 1 750-milliliter bottle white wine, 1 32-ounce bottle apple cider, and 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated, then add 3-4 cinnamon sticks.
4. Cover pitcher or punch bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours (longer is better for flavor infusion).
5. Just before removing sangria from the refrigerator, slice the remaining 1 medium orange or 1 medium apple into small wedges to garnish glasses.
6. Remove pitcher from the refrigerator. Add 1 cup carbonated water and stir well to incorporate. Once incorporated, taste sangria and stir in additional maple syrup if desired.
7. When satisfied with the mixture’s sweetness, pour sangria into glasses. Add 8 cinnamon sticks to glasses if desired, then garnish glasses with orange wedges or apple wedges and serve immediately.

Notes

• Apples: We used a combination of Honeycrisp and Cosmic Crisp apples, but any crisp apple variety will work well.
• Alcohol: Feel free to increase the amount of alcohol in your sangria if you want! In addition to the white wine, we recommend using brandy (in plain, ginger, apple, or spiced flavors), whiskey (in plain, apple, maple, or cinnamon flavors), caramel liqueur, or Grand Marnier. Note that adding a dark liquor will deepen the color of your sangria, so it won’t look exactly like mine.
• Ice: Don’t add ice directly to the batch of sangria! Instead, use ice only in the individual serving glasses – that way the entire batch won’t be watered down when the ice melts. You can also freeze extra orange slices, apple slices, or even grapes and use those to keep the drinks cold instead of ice. As they defrost, they’ll release juice into the drinks rather than just water.
• Leftovers: Refrigerate any leftover sangria in an airtight container (like a mason jar) for up to 1 week after preparation. The carbonated water will lose its carbonation over time, but the drink will still taste great!

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1sangria |
Calories: 165kcal |
Protein: 0.4g |
Fat: 0.2g |
Saturated Fat: 0.04g |
Total Carbs: 24g |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 19g |
Net Carbs: 23g |
Vitamin C: 10mg |
Sodium: 16mg |
Potassium: 255mg |
Calcium: 31mg |
Iron: 0.5mg

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. The result will be the weight of one serving.

© Author: Cheryl Malik