Cranberry apple sangria is a refreshing, fruity drink filled with crisp apples, tart cranberries, citrus, and warm fall flavors. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, fall parties, and cozy celebrations.
Why This Recipe Works
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Crisp apple and tart cranberry flavors
- Beautiful and festive presentation
- Perfect for Thanksgiving and fall gatherings
- Can be made in a large pitcher for entertaining
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ½ cup apple cider
- ¼ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup brandy
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- ½ orange, thinly sliced
- ½ cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 cup sparkling water or lemon-lime soda, chilled
- Ice, for serving
- Fresh rosemary, optional, for garnish
How to Make Cranberry Apple Sangria
- Prepare the fruit: Wash the apple, orange, and cranberries. Thinly slice the apple and orange.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large pitcher, add the white wine, cranberry juice, apple cider, orange juice, brandy, and maple syrup. Stir until combined.
- Add the fruit: Add the sliced apple, orange, cranberries, and cinnamon stick to the pitcher.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the flavors can blend. For a stronger fruit flavor, chill for up to 6 hours.
- Add the bubbles: Just before serving, remove the cinnamon stick if desired and stir in the chilled sparkling water or lemon-lime soda.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice and pour in the sangria. Garnish with fresh rosemary and additional fruit if desired.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Apple Sangria
- Use a crisp, dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Chill the sangria before adding sparkling water to keep it refreshing.
- Letting the fruit soak for a few hours creates better flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness with more or less maple syrup.
- Add sparkling water right before serving to preserve the fizz.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry apple sangria is a festive and refreshing drink that’s perfect for fall entertaining. The combination of cranberry, crisp apple, citrus, and warm cinnamon makes it an especially delicious choice for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings.
