As the leaves begin to fall and the air gets crisp, the search for the perfect autumnal beverage becomes a delightful pursuit. Few drinks capture the essence of the season quite like a refreshing, fruit-filled sangria. This Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria with Brandy and Oranges recipe not only embraces fall flavors but also adds a festive twist that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
To make this scrumptious sangria, you’ll need:
- Cranberry Juice: 2 cups (unsweetened for a tart flavor)
- Apple Cider: 3 cups (freshly pressed, if possible)
- Brandy: 1 cup (aged for a smoother taste)
- Red Wine: 1 bottle (a dry variety works best, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- Oranges: 2 (sliced into thin rounds)
- Apples: 2 (cored and cut into thin slices)
- Fresh Cranberries: 1 cup
- Cinnamon Sticks: 2 (for a spicy touch)
- Club Soda: 1 cup (optional, for added fizz)
- Additional Orange Slices and Cranberries for garnish
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own pitcher of autumn magic:
- Combine the Liquids: Start by pouring the cranberry juice, apple cider, brandy, and red wine into a large pitcher. Stir to mix the ingredients well.
- Add Fruits and Spices: Drop in the orange slices, apple slices, fresh cranberries, and cinnamon sticks. Make sure the fruit is fully submerged to infuse the sangria with their flavors.
- Chill: Refrigerate the sangria for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Just before serving, if you prefer a fizzy sangria, gently stir in the club soda. Pour the sangria into glasses, making sure to include some of the fruit and a cinnamon stick in each glass for a charming presentation.
- Garnish: Top each glass with a few extra cranberries and an orange slice for a photogenic finish.
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria with Brandy and Oranges pairs wonderfully with a variety of autumn dishes. Serve it alongside a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar and creamy brie, or enjoy it with roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham. It’s also delightful with a pumpkin pie or apple crisp for dessert.
Tips for the Perfect Sangria
- Wine Selection: Choose a wine that’s fruity but not too sweet. A dry red will balance the sweetness of the cider and cranberry juice.
- Quality Counts: Opt for higher quality brandy if your budget allows, as it will significantly affect the flavor.
- Customize: Feel free to add more fruits like pears or swap out the spices for star anise or cloves.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: For a mocktail variation, swap the red wine and brandy for grape juice and additional apple cider.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Apple Cider Sangria with Brandy and Oranges is more than a drink—it’s a celebration of the season’s bounty. It’s a testament to the power of quality ingredients and the joy of shared moments. Give this recipe a try, and you’re sure to impress your guests with a drink that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
For more delicious recipes and seasonal inspirations, continue to follow us, and share your sangria-making adventures with us! Cheers to a delightful autumn!
