If you’re on the hunt for a festive, flavorful drink that perfectly bridges the gap between cozy fall vibes and refreshing bubbly sips, this Cranberry Apple Sangria Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with tart cranberry juice, crisp apple slices, and warm spices like cinnamon and star anise, it’s a vibrant celebration in a glass that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or just want to brighten up any afternoon, this sangria combines simple ingredients into a show-stopping concoction that feels like pure magic with every pour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cranberry Apple Sangria Recipe calls for straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that come together beautifully to create a medley of colors, flavors, and textures that enchant every sense. Each element plays a part, from the juicy sweetness of the apples to the aromatic spices that bring warmth and depth.
- 3 cups cranberry apple juice cocktail (divided): The juicy backbone providing vibrant fruity flavor and a stunning rosy hue.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tartness without overpowering.
- 2 oranges (thinly sliced): Brings citrus brightness and a fresh pop of color to the mix.
- 1/2 cup halved fresh cranberries: These add bursts of tartness and a festive spark to the sangria.
- 2 5-inch sprigs fresh rosemary: Infuses an herbal aroma that complements the fruit perfectly.
- 2 3-inch cinnamon sticks: Warm spice notes that evoke cozy feelings in every sip.
- 3 star anise pods: A subtle licorice flavor that deepens the sangria’s complexity.
- 8 whole cloves: Small but mighty, cloves add an inviting depth to the flavor profile.
- 2 cups sliced small apples: Crisp texture and sweet freshness that soak up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 750-ml bottle pinot grigio, chilled: The perfect light and crisp white wine base that balances the fruit and spices.
How to Make Cranberry Apple Sangria Recipe
Step 1: Sweeten and Heat the Juice
Start by combining 2 cups of the cranberry apple juice cocktail with the sugar in a medium saucepan set over medium heat. Stir gently but consistently to help the sugar dissolve—this usually takes about four minutes. Heating the mixture not only dissolves the sugar perfectly but also enhances the mingling of flavors right from the start. Once the sugar has dissolved and the liquid is warm and fragrant, remove it from the heat and get ready for the next fun step.
Step 2: Add the Fruit and Spices
Next, introduce the thinly sliced oranges, halved fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, cinnamon sticks, star anise pods, and whole cloves to that warm juice mixture. These ingredients are the soul of the sangria—they bring extraordinary aroma and taste that’ll have your kitchen smelling like a holiday wonderland. Let everything stand and steep together for 30 minutes to infuse the juice with those delicious festive notes. At the end of the steeping time, fish out and discard the rosemary sprigs and cloves to keep the sangria smooth and balanced.
Step 3: Combine with Apples and Remaining Juice
Now it’s time to bring the sangria together. Grab a large pitcher and whisk the infused orange-spice mixture with the sliced apples and the remaining 1 cup of cranberry apple juice. The fresh apples add a lovely texture and absorb the rich flavors, plus they look stunning swimming in the pitcher. This step gives the sangria its signature layered taste and a bit of crunch to enjoy between sips.
Step 4: Chill to Marry Flavors
Patience is key here—place your sangria in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours. This resting time allows all the fantastic flavors to intermingle and mellow perfectly. Overnight is even better if you have the time! The cold temperature also makes it that much more refreshing when you’re ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve with Pinot Grigio Over Ice
When your sangria has had enough chill time, serve it over ice and top each glass with a generous splash of chilled pinot grigio. The wine adds a crisp, light sparkle that brings all the fruity and spicy notes together in harmony. This final touch elevates the sangria into a refined, elegant drink that’s simultaneously festive and easy to sip.
How to Serve Cranberry Apple Sangria Recipe
Garnishes
To make each glass feel extra special, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or thin orange slices perched on the rim. You can also scatter a few fresh cranberries or a cinnamon stick in the glass for that picture-perfect, holiday-ready look. These simple garnishes not only elevate the presentation but enhance the aroma as you take that delighted first sip.
Side Dishes
This sangria pairs beautifully with a range of snacks and light meals. Think roasted nuts, savory cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie, and charcuterie boards piled high with cured meats and fresh bread. For a heartier option, try it alongside turkey sliders or spiced pork chops to complement those warm, spiced undertones in the drink.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve this sangria in clear glass dispensers to show off the vivid colors of the fruit and spices. For a party, freeze some of the cranberry apple juice into ice cubes with cranberries or apple slices inside—they’ll keep the sangria cold without diluting the flavor. Another fun idea is to use mason jars for a rustic, casual vibe that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sangria left after the party, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen, so the taste may even improve! Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving leftovers to redistribute the fruit and spices.
Freezing
Due to the alcohol and fresh fruit content, this sangria is not ideal for freezing. Freezing can change the texture of the fruit and may separate the flavors. It’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled in the fridge within a few days for optimal taste and quality.
Reheating
Typically, sangria is served chilled or over ice, so reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you prefer a warm version, gently heat the juice mixture (before adding the wine) to enjoy as a mulled drink during colder months, but skip the ice and wine until serving to keep the right balance.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of wine for this Cranberry Apple Sangria Recipe?
Absolutely! While pinot grigio is a great choice for its crispness and light flavor, you can experiment with other white wines like sauvignon blanc or even a light rosé. Just keep it chilled and light to complement the sangria’s fruity and spicy notes.
How far in advance can I prepare this sangria?
This sangria tastes best when prepared at least 4 hours ahead, but making it the night before is perfect for allowing flavors to develop fully. Just be sure to add the wine and ice right before serving to keep everything fresh and bubbly.
Is it possible to make this recipe non-alcoholic?
Yes! Simply omit the pinot grigio and replace it with an equal amount of chilled sparkling water or a festive sparkling cider. You’ll still get delicious, layered flavors without the alcohol.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
You can substitute frozen cranberries if fresh aren’t available, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid diluting the sangria. Fresh cranberries add the best texture and appearance.
What is the best way to serve Cranberry Apple Sangria Recipe at a party?
Serve it in a large, clear glass pitcher or beverage dispenser with plenty of ice and attractive garnishes like fresh rosemary sprigs and orange slices. Providing festive glassware and a side of light snacks will make your guests feel extra special!
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Apple Sangria Recipe is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration in a glass that brings warmth, color, and irresistible flavor to any occasion. It’s simple to prepare yet endlessly impressive, the perfect way to toast moments with friends and family. Give it a try, and watch how it becomes your go-to recipe for festive fun and cozy get-togethers.
Print
Cranberry Apple Sangria Recipe
- Prep Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cranberry Apple Sangria is a festive and flavorful drink perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings. It combines the tartness of cranberry apple juice with fresh fruits, warming spices, and chilled Pinot Grigio for a refreshing yet comforting beverage. The warming spices and fresh rosemary infuse the drink with aromatic depth, while the fresh apples and oranges add brightness and texture.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 3 cups cranberry apple juice cocktail, divided
- 1 750-ml bottle Pinot Grigio, chilled
Sweetener
- 1/4 cup sugar
Fruits
- 2 oranges, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, halved
- 2 cups sliced small apples
Spices & Herbs
- 2 5-inch sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 3-inch cinnamon sticks
- 3 star anise pods
- 8 whole cloves
Instructions
- Dissolve the Sugar: Combine 2 cups of cranberry apple juice and the sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar fully dissolves, which should take about 4 minutes. Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat.
- Infuse the Spices and Fruits: Add the orange slices, halved cranberries, rosemary sprigs, cinnamon sticks, star anise pods, and whole cloves into the warm juice mixture. Let this mixture stand for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. After steeping, carefully remove and discard the rosemary sprigs and cloves.
- Combine and Mix: In a large pitcher, whisk together the infused orange-spice mixture, sliced apples, and the remaining 1 cup of cranberry apple juice until well combined.
- Chill the Sangria: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours. This resting time lets all the flavors meld and deepens the taste.
- Serve: When ready to serve, pour the sangria over ice and top each glass with chilled Pinot Grigio. Stir gently before sipping to enjoy a balanced, refreshing drink.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar based on your taste preference.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the Pinot Grigio and add sparkling water or soda instead.
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and tartness.
- Make the sangria a day ahead for even more infused flavor.
- Ensure the Pinot Grigio is well chilled to keep the sangria refreshing when served.
