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Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Sangria

Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Sangria - featured image
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A warm, aromatic fall drink blending dry red wine, fresh apple cider, and spiced fruit. This recipe uses a gentle simmering method to release essential oils from the spices, creating a comforting and sophisticated beverage perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 4 cups fresh-pressed apple cider (no added sugar)
  • 1/2 cup dark rum or brandy
  • 2 firm apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), sliced thin
  • 1 pear (Bosc or Anjou), sliced thin (optional)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1–2 star anise pods
  • 4–5 whole cloves
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 orange, sliced into rounds (for garnish)
  • Simple syrup or lemon juice (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice apples, pears, and oranges into thin rounds or wedges. Set aside.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or pitcher, combine the red wine, apple cider, and chosen spirit (rum or brandy). Stir gently.
  3. Add cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves to the liquid. If serving warm, add the orange zest now to release oils.
  4. Add the sliced fruit to the liquid.
  5. For warm serving: Place pot over low heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Heat for 10-15 minutes, ensuring it does not boil. For cold serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
  6. Taste the sangria and adjust sweetness with simple syrup or tartness with lemon juice if needed.
  7. Ladle into mugs or wine glasses, ensuring each serving includes fruit and spices. Garnish with fresh orange slices and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not let the sangria boil, as this will cause the alcohol to evaporate and the flavor to become flat. Use fresh spices for the best aromatic punch. Cloves are potent, so use sparingly. For a non-alcoholic version, omit wine and brandy, replacing with extra cider and vanilla extract. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: fall drinks, apple cider sangria, warm sangria, party drinks, autumn recipes, cozy drinks, red wine punch

Find it online: https://tomyumy.com/cozy-spiced-apple-cider-sangria-5-best-fall-party-drinks/