Cranberry Apple Sangria for a Cozy Fall Party is the perfect drink to bring some festive flavors to your get-together. This sangria combines the tartness of cranberries with the crisp sweetness of apples, all mixed into a refreshing, slightly bubbly drink. It’s bright, fruity, and has just the right touch of warmth and spice to fit the fall season beautifully.
I love making this sangria when friends come over because it’s so easy to prepare but always impresses everyone. The mix of fresh fruit and a splash of cranberry juice gives it such a lively flavor, and the subtle cinnamon or spice notes add that cozy feeling I’m looking for on a cool autumn evening. Plus, it’s fun to watch all the colors swirl together in the pitcher!
The best way I like to serve this sangria is in big glasses with plenty of ice and a few fresh cranberries or apple slices as a garnish. It makes the presentation pop and keeps the drink extra refreshing. Whether you’re chatting around a fire or sitting inside with some fall music playing, this drink always helps set a warm, welcoming vibe for the party.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dry White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio work well for their crisp, light flavors. If you prefer red wine, try a lighter red like Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic, sparkling white grape juice is a nice substitute.
Cranberry Juice: Choose unsweetened or lightly sweetened to control the sweetness. If you can’t find cranberry juice, pomegranate juice is a good alternative.
Apple Brandy or Schnapps: This adds warmth and depth, but it’s optional. If avoiding alcohol or hard spirits, skip this or replace with extra juice for sweetness.
Fresh Apple & Cranberries: Use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for crunch. Fresh cranberries add tartness and color. Frozen can work but may change texture.
Cinnamon Sticks & Rosemary: These bring fall spice and herbal notes. If you don’t have rosemary, thyme is a good substitute. Ground cinnamon can work but add less so it doesn’t overpower.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor by Letting the Sangria Chill?
Chilling the sangria for at least 2 hours is crucial. This resting time lets the flavors mix and develop, making the drink taste richer and more balanced.
- Combine all ingredients and refrigerate.
- For best results, chill overnight to fully infuse the spices and fruit flavors.
- If short on time, 2 hours still tastes great!
- Give the sangria a gentle stir before serving to mix any settled ingredients.
- Adding ice just before serving keeps it cool without watering it down too fast.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pitcher – perfect for mixing and chilling the sangria all together.
- Sharp knife – makes cutting apples and oranges easy and safe.
- Cutting board – a clean surface to prep your fruit comfortably.
- Measuring cups – to get the right balance of juices and liquors.
- Wooden spoon or stirrer – helps mix the ingredients gently without bruising the fruit.
- Glasses – wide or stemless ones show off the colorful fruit beautifully.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap white wine for sparkling rosé for a bubbly twist and a hint of pink color.
- Add sliced pears or pomegranate seeds for extra fall fruit flavors and texture.
- Include a splash of ginger beer instead of sparkling water for a zesty, spicy kick.
- Use maple syrup in place of orange liqueur to keep it non-alcoholic and add cozy sweetness.
Cranberry Apple Sangria for a Cozy Fall Party
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sangria:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- ½ cup apple brandy or apple schnapps (optional, for extra kick)
- ¼ cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
For the Fruit & Flavor:
- 1 apple, cored and diced (green or red apple)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1–2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 sprig rosemary (for garnish)
- Sparkling water or club soda, to top off (optional)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus at least 2 hours chilling time in the refrigerator. For best flavor, chilling overnight is ideal; this lets the fruit and spices soak into the sangria for a deliciously cozy fall taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Liquids:
In a large pitcher, gently stir together the dry white wine, cranberry juice, apple brandy (if you’re using it), and orange liqueur. This creates the base of your sangria.
2. Add Fruits and Spices:
Drop the diced apples, fresh cranberries, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks into the pitcher. Stir everything carefully to combine.
3. Chill the Sangria:
Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator. Let it rest for at least 2 hours so the flavors can blend and develop. If you have time, letting it chill overnight is even better.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, add ice cubes to the pitcher or into individual glasses. If you like a little fizz, top off each glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda. Add a fresh rosemary sprig as a fragrant, festive garnish.
5. Enjoy Your Cozy Fall Party Drink:
Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing mix of tart cranberries, crisp apples, and warm spices – perfect for sipping with friends on a cool fall day!
Can I Make This Sangria Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the sangria up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. This actually helps the flavors meld even better. Just add ice and sparkling water right before serving to keep it fresh and bubbly.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries or Apples?
Sure, frozen cranberries work fine and can cool the sangria nicely, but use fresh apples for the best texture since frozen apples may become mushy.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Brandy or Schnapps?
No worries! The apple brandy adds extra warmth and depth, but you can skip it or substitute with a little extra cranberry juice or orange liqueur instead.
How Should I Store Leftover Sangria?
Keep any leftovers in a sealed pitcher or container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving again. Avoid adding ice until you’re ready to pour to keep it from diluting too quickly.
