Apple Cider Sangria
Apple Cider Sangria is a refreshing and cozy fall beverage that blends the natural sweetness of fresh apples with warm spices, citrus notes, and a splash of white wine. Perfect for gatherings or unwinding after a long day, this easy-to-make sangria captures the essence of autumn with its vibrant fruit slices, aromatic spices, and a light fizzy finish.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Liquids
- 4 cups fresh apple cider
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry or semi-dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 cup club soda or sparkling water (added before serving)
Fruit
- 2 crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), thinly sliced and seeds removed
- 1 orange, sliced into wheels
Spices
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1–2 star anise (optional)
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and thinly slice the apples and orange, removing any seeds to ensure smooth sipping and balanced flavor infusion.
- Combine Liquids: In a large pitcher or bowl, pour in the fresh apple cider and white wine. Stir in the maple syrup or honey until fully blended to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Add Spices and Fruit: Add the cinnamon sticks, optional star anise, and the sliced apples and oranges into the mixture, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Chill and Let It Marinate: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to deepen and marry the flavors.
- Serve with a Sparkle: Just before serving, stir in club soda or sparkling water for a refreshing fizz. Pour the sangria over ice and garnish with extra apple slices, orange wheels, and optional rosemary or cinnamon sticks.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality apple cider and wine for the best flavor.
- Adjust sweetness before chilling by tasting the mixture and adding more maple syrup or honey if desired.
- Remove cinnamon sticks and star anise after about 24 hours to avoid overpowering the drink.
- Serve the sangria well-chilled over ice to keep the flavors vibrant and refreshing.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3 days; do not freeze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240 ml)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Apple Cider Sangria, Fall Drinks, Autumn Beverage, Spiced Sangria, Seasonal Drink, Apple Cider Cocktail, Easy Sangria Recipe