Apple Cider Sangria is the perfect fall-inspired cocktail that combines crisp apples, sweet cider, warm spices, and a splash of wine for a refreshing yet cozy drink. It’s light, fruity, and festive—exactly what I love to serve at gatherings during the autumn season.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how Apple Cider Sangria brings the essence of fall into every glass. The natural sweetness of the apple cider pairs so beautifully with white wine, and the sliced apples and citrus make it feel fresh and bright. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing drink that I can mix up in advance, which means less stress when guests arrive. Plus, I get to enjoy the delicious flavor of cider in a whole new way.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh apple cider
- White wine (I usually use Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- Brandy (or apple brandy for more flavor)
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Apples (thinly sliced)
- Oranges or lemons (thinly sliced)
- Cinnamon sticks
- Whole cloves or star anise (optional)
- Sparkling water or club soda (for topping)
- Ice
Directions
- I start by adding the apple cider, white wine, and brandy to a large pitcher or jug.
- I stir in honey or maple syrup if I want it a bit sweeter, especially if the cider is tart.
- I add in the sliced apples, citrus, and cinnamon sticks. If I’m feeling fancy, I throw in a few whole cloves or a star anise for a spiced touch.
- I cover the pitcher and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let the flavors meld.
- When I’m ready to serve, I stir the sangria well and pour it over ice in individual glasses.
- I top each glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda for a little fizz.
- I garnish with extra fruit slices and a cinnamon stick if I want to make it look extra festive.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: At least 4 hours (overnight preferred)
Total time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- I sometimes use rosé or sparkling wine instead of white wine for a different twist.
- For a non-alcoholic version, I skip the wine and brandy and replace them with sparkling apple cider and a splash of orange juice.
- I like to add pear slices or pomegranate seeds for extra texture and flavor.
- If I want a stronger fall spice flavor, I steep a cinnamon stick and cloves in the cider before mixing.
- For a richer taste, I occasionally use spiced rum instead of brandy.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover sangria in the fridge for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours while the fruit is fresh and the flavors are bright. I don’t reheat it—this drink is meant to be served chilled or over ice. If I need to refresh the fizz, I top it off with a little more sparkling water before serving again.
FAQs
Can I make this sangria ahead of time?
Yes, and I actually prefer to. I mix everything (except the sparkling water) and let it chill overnight. It gives the fruit time to infuse the sangria with flavor.
What’s the best wine to use?
I usually go with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or even a dry Riesling. I avoid anything too sweet since the cider already adds natural sweetness.
Can I use hard apple cider instead of regular cider?
Yes, if I want a boozier version. I just skip or reduce the white wine and adjust the sweetness to taste since hard cider can vary.
Do I have to use brandy?
No, but I like how it adds warmth and depth. If I don’t have brandy, I substitute with spiced rum, bourbon, or just skip it altogether for a lighter sangria.
How do I keep it from getting too sweet?
I taste as I go. Since apple cider can be sweet on its own, I skip the added honey or syrup if I find it sweet enough. I also balance it with tart citrus and a splash of fizzy water.
Conclusion
Apple Cider Sangria is my go-to fall drink—it’s simple, stunning, and full of seasonal flavor. With crisp apples, cozy spices, and a refreshing wine base, this sangria is perfect for any autumn celebration. Whether I’m making it for a weekend brunch, Thanksgiving dinner, or a cozy evening in, it’s always a hit.
Print
Apple Cider Sangria
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Cider Sangria is a fall-inspired cocktail blending sweet cider, crisp wine, fresh fruit, and warm spices into a refreshing and festive drink perfect for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients
3 cups fresh apple cider
1 bottle (750ml) white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
1/2 cup brandy or apple brandy
1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
2 apples, thinly sliced
1 orange or lemon, thinly sliced
2 cinnamon sticks
2–3 whole cloves or 1 star anise (optional)
1 cup sparkling water or club soda
Ice for serving
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, white wine, and brandy.
- Add honey or maple syrup to taste, depending on desired sweetness.
- Stir in sliced apples, citrus, cinnamon sticks, and optional spices.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- When ready to serve, stir the sangria and pour over ice in glasses.
- Top each glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda.
- Garnish with additional fruit slices and cinnamon sticks if desired.
Notes
Use rosé or sparkling wine for a unique variation.
For a non-alcoholic version, use sparkling cider and orange juice.
Add pear slices or pomegranate seeds for extra flair.
Infuse cider with spices ahead for stronger fall flavor.
Substitute brandy with spiced rum or bourbon for richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
