Print

Easy Spiked Apple Cider Sangria: The Best Fall Cocktail

apple cider sangria - featured image
Print Recipe

This Easy Spiked Apple Cider Sangria is a bright, warming fall cocktail that converts skeptics and delights believers. It’s perfect for gatherings, made with simple ingredients, and comes together in just 10 minutes of active time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (950 ml) apple cider
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) spiced rum
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple brandy or Calvados (optional)
  • 2–3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 3–4 cinnamon sticks
  • 2–3 star anise pods
  • 2 fresh apples (cored and thinly sliced)
  • 1 fresh orange (thinly sliced)
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) fresh cranberries (optional)
  • Club soda or ginger ale (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the fruit: Wash and dry the apples and oranges. Core the apples and slice them into thin rounds or half-moons. Slice the orange into thin rounds. Rinse the cranberries if using.
  2. Dissolve the sweetener: In a small bowl, combine the honey or maple syrup with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Stir until completely dissolved.
  3. Layer the ingredients: In a large pitcher, add the sliced apples, oranges, and cranberries. Add the cinnamon sticks and star anise pods.
  4. Add the liquids: Pour in the apple cider, white wine, spiced rum, and apple brandy (if using). Add the dissolved honey mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon to combine.
  5. Taste and adjust: Taste the sangria and adjust sweetness or alcohol to your preference.
  6. Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Serve: Fill glasses with ice. Pour the sangria over the ice, including some fruit and a cinnamon stick in each glass. Top with a splash of club soda or ginger ale if desired.

Notes

For best results, chill the sangria for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. The fruit will continue to soften and infuse. If making ahead, add club soda or ginger ale just before serving to keep the fizz. To make a mocktail, omit the alcohol and use non-alcoholic white wine or extra apple cider.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider sangria, fall cocktail, spiked sangria, easy sangria, apple cider drink, autumn cocktail

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/easy-spiked-apple-cider-sangria-the-best-fall-cocktail/