Looking for a refreshing, easy-to-make cocktail that captures the essence of autumn? Look no further than this delightful Apple Cider Sangria recipe! With its vibrant flavors and festive presentation, this sangria is sure to impress your guests and become a new fall favorite.
Ingredients List
- 1 bottle (750 ml) of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- 2 cups apple cider (for a non-alcoholic version, use sparkling apple cider)
- 1/2 cup brandy or apple brandy (optional)
- 2 apples, cored and thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice for serving
Timing
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 2-4 hours (or overnight for best results)
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
This Apple Cider Sangria recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, which is 50% less time than the average sangria recipe. The longer chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more delightful and well-balanced cocktail.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, apple cider, and brandy (if using). Gently stir in the sliced apples, oranges, lemon, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks. Add the honey or maple syrup and stir until dissolved.
Step 2: Chill and Serve
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the Apple Cider Sangria over the ice. Garnish with additional fruit slices or cinnamon sticks, if desired.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 cup (8 oz)
Calories: 150 (using honey and including brandy)
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 10mg
Alcohol Content: 8% ABV (with brandy), 5% ABV (without brandy)
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this Apple Cider Sangria recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use a low-calorie sweetener instead of honey or maple syrup
- Opt for a lower-alcohol white wine or use more apple cider and less wine
- Skip the brandy to reduce the alcohol content
- Add more fresh fruit to increase the nutritional value
Serving Suggestions
This festive sangria is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy nights in. Serve it in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful colors of the fruit. For a fun presentation, garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick or a skewer of fresh fruit. Pair this sangria with autumn-inspired appetizers like baked brie with apples or pumpkin spice crackers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not chilling the sangria long enough. For optimal flavor, chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
- Using inferior quality wine. Choose a crisp, high-quality white wine for the best results.
- Over-sweetening the sangria. Start with a smaller amount of honey or maple syrup and adjust to taste.
- Skimping on the fruit. Be generous with the fruit to infuse the sangria with plenty of flavors.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftover sangria, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruit will continue to infuse the liquid, so the flavors may intensify over time. If the sangria becomes too strong, dilute it with a splash of apple cider or sparkling water before serving.
Conclusion
This Effortless Fall Apple Cider Sangria is a delightful, crowd-pleasing cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. With its easy preparation and irresistible combination of crisp white wine, apple cider, and seasonal fruit, this sangria is sure to become a go-to recipe for all your fall gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and raise a glass to this delicious and refreshing autumn treat!
Have you tried this Apple Cider Sangria recipe? Share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added in the comments below. And for more seasonal cocktail inspiration, check out our collection of fall-inspired drinks!
