Apple Cider Sangria
This seasonal Apple Cider Sangria transforms the classic summer favorite into a fall sensation, combining the crisp sweetness of fresh apples with the warmth of cider and the complexity of white wine. Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or cozy evenings by the fire.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 0 minutes mins
Infusion Time 2 hours hrs
Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 8 glasses
Calories 165 kcal
Base Liquids
- 1 bottle dry white wine 750ml, Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc recommended
- 2 cups fresh apple cider unfiltered preferred
- 1/2 cup brandy apple brandy works especially well
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
Fruits and Spices
- 2 medium apples Honeycrisp and Granny Smith recommended
- 1 orange thinly sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 star anise pod optional
For Serving
- 1 cup sparkling water
- ice cubes
- additional apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Core and dice the apples into 1/2-inch cubes (no need to peel). Slice the orange into thin rounds, then halve them.
In a large glass pitcher, combine the white wine, apple cider, and brandy. Stir gently to mix.
Add the honey or maple syrup, starting with slightly less than the recipe calls for. You can adjust later to taste.
Add the prepared apple cubes, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to the pitcher. Gently stir to distribute the fruit throughout the liquid.
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for optimal flavor development.
When ready to serve, add ice to glasses and fill about 3/4 full with sangria, including some of the soaked fruit. Top each glass with a splash of sparkling water and garnish with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace wine with white grape juice and brandy with additional apple cider.
This sangria can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours, with optimal flavor typically peaking between 12-36 hours after preparation.
For best results, store in a sealed glass container and remove the spices after 24 hours to prevent bitter notes.
Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 22gSugar: 18gVitamin C: 15mg
Keyword Sangria, Apple Cider, Fall Cocktail, White Wine Sangria, Autumn Drink