Cranberry Apple Sangria

The Cranberry Apple Sangria offers a delicious blend of two iconic fall fruits—cranberries and apples—creating a sangria that’s both tart and sweet. This cocktail combines the bright, tangy flavor of cranberries with the crisp, refreshing taste of apples, all balanced by the richness of wine. Ideal for autumn celebrations, this sangria is a festive and flavorful addition to any occasion.

Equipment

You’ll need basic kitchen equipment:

• A large pitcher or punch bowl
• A wooden spoon for stirring
• A cutting board and knife
• A measuring cup
• A grater for zesting
• A fine mesh strainer (optional)

These tools ensure you can prepare and serve the sangria efficiently.

Ingredients

Key ingredients include:

• 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Zinfandel)
• 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 apple, sliced thin
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 cup cranberry juice
• 1/2 cup brandy

These ingredients create a balanced, flavorful sangria.

Instructions

1. Slice the apple and orange thinly.
2. Combine wine, cranberries, apple, and orange in the pitcher.
3. Add sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
4. Pour in cranberry juice and brandy.
5. Stir until sugar dissolves.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
7. Stir before serving. Strain if desired.

Follow these steps for a delicious beverage.

Tasting Notes

Expect a blend of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and citrus from the orange. Warming spices like cinnamon and cloves add depth. The wine and brandy provide a rich, smooth base. This sangria is refreshing with a hint of spice, making it perfect for cooler weather.

Similar Cocktails

Consider trying:

• Traditional Sangria: Red wine, oranges, lemons, brandy.
• White Sangria: White wine, peaches, berries, triple sec.
• Mulled Wine: Red wine, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, honey, orange zest.

These options provide different flavor profiles and seasonal variations.

History

Sangria originated in Spain and Portugal. Traditionally, it combines red wine with fruits, sweeteners, and brandy. The Cranberry Apple version adapts this classic recipe for a fall and winter twist, leveraging seasonal fruits and spices to create a festive beverage.

Quick Pro Tips

1. Use fresh cranberries for a tart kick.
2. Let it sit overnight to enhance flavors.
3. Choose a wine that’s slightly fruity for balance.
4. Adjust the sweetness to your taste with more or less sugar.
5. Add a splash of club soda before serving for fizz.

When To Serve

Cranberry Apple Sangria is perfect for fall and winter celebrations. Serve it at Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas parties, or any festive gathering.

It’s also great for casual weekends by the fireplace or game days with friends. Each occasion complements the seasonal flavors.