Apple Cider Sangria
Apple Cider Sangria is a refreshing fall drink made with apple cider, fresh fruit, warm spices, and your choice of wine or bubbly like Prosecco. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, holidays, or any crisp autumn day.
Equipment
- 1 large pitcher (glass looks best!)
- Cutting board and knife
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Wine glasses or mason jars for serving (Optional)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups apple cider
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 oz fresh orange juice
- 1 orange sliced
- 8 –10 sprigs fresh thyme
- 3 –6 cinnamon sticks
- ½ cup ginger brandy
- 3 pears chopped
- 2 apples diced
- 2 –4 Tbsp bourbon optional but so good
- 1 bottle Prosecco chilled
- ½ cup frozen cranberries
- ½ cup salted caramel vodka optional, but adds fun flavor
Instructions
Chop the fruit:
- Dice apples and pears into bite-sized chunks. Slice the orange into thin rounds.
Build your base:
- In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, lemon juice, orange juice, bourbon (if using), brandy, caramel vodka (if using), cinnamon sticks, and fresh thyme.
Add the fruit:
- Toss in the sliced orange, apples, pears, and cranberries. Stir gently to mix.
Chill:
- Let the sangria sit in the fridge for 2 to 4 hours. This helps the flavors blend and the fruit soak up the good stuff.
Add bubbles:
- Just before serving, pour in the chilled prosecco. Stir gently again.
Serve cold:
- Pour into glasses with a scoop of fruit in each one. Garnish with an extra thyme sprig or cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
If you’re planning to prep ahead, mix everything except the prosecco, and keep it chilled. Add the prosecco right before serving to keep the fizz alive.