Cozy Apple Cider Sangria
A simple, 5-ingredient fall drink combining red wine, fresh apple cider, cinnamon, and apples for a warm, comforting beverage that is perfect for cozy nights and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 bottle (750ml) Pinot Noir or Merlot
- 1 quart (4 cups) 100% pure apple cider
- 2 medium crisp apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn), sliced into thin wedges
- 2–3 cinnamon sticks
- 1/4 cup bourbon or brandy (optional)
Instructions
- Wash apples, remove cores, and slice into thin wedges. Place slices into a large 2-quart pitcher.
- Pour the bottle of red wine over the apples in the pitcher.
- Add the apple cider and stir gently to combine.
- Add the bourbon or brandy if using, and stir again.
- Drop the cinnamon sticks into the pitcher and stir to ensure they are submerged.
- Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor infusion.
- Before serving, stir the sangria well. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength if needed.
- Serve over ice (frozen apple slices work well) and garnish with fresh apple wedges and a cinnamon stick.
Notes
Use fresh-pressed apple cider for the best flavor. Avoid heavy Cabernet Sauvignon as tannins may clash with the cider sweetness. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute red wine with grape or tart cherry juice. The sangria keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz glass
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 16
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 18
Keywords: apple cider sangria, fall cocktail, red wine sangria, easy drink recipe, autumn drinks, cozy drinks, gluten-free cocktail