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Cozy Apple Cider Sangria: Easy Fall Party Drink

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A sophisticated yet easy-to-make fall cocktail featuring dry red wine, fresh apple cider, and warming spices like cinnamon and star anise. Perfect for autumn gatherings and parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Pinot Noir)
  • 2 cups unfiltered apple cider
  • 1/2 cup brandy or dark rum
  • 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and sliced into wedges
  • 1 large orange, sliced into rounds
  • 2 large cinnamon sticks
  • 3 whole star anise pods
  • 6–8 whole cloves
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 cup sparkling water or soda

Instructions

  1. Wash the apples and orange thoroughly. Core the apples and slice them into thin wedges. Slice the orange into rounds.
  2. Place all the cut fruit into a large glass pitcher or punch bowl.
  3. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and thyme sprigs to the bowl with the fruit. Gently toss to distribute spices evenly.
  4. Pour the entire bottle of red wine over the fruit and spices.
  5. Add the apple cider and brandy (or dark rum). If using, add honey or maple syrup.
  6. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all liquids and ensure spices are submerged.
  7. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally 12 hours, to allow flavors to infuse.
  8. Remove from fridge and stir well before serving.
  9. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
  10. Just before serving, add sparkling water or soda and stir gently.
  11. Ladle into glasses, ensuring each serving includes fruit and spices. Garnish with apple slice or thyme if desired.

Notes

Avoid including the white pith of the orange to prevent bitterness. For a non-alcoholic version, swap wine and brandy for extra cider and grape juice. Use frozen apple slices as ice cubes to avoid dilution. The drink improves in flavor after sitting overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider sangria, fall cocktail, autumn drink, red wine sangria, party drink, easy cocktail, seasonal recipes

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/cozy-apple-cider-sangria-easy-fall-party-drink/