Cranberry Apple Sangria
I first tried this sangria at a small Thanksgiving gathering, and it immediately became the highlight of the table. It balances sweet and tart in such a way that it pairs beautifully with everything from roasted turkey to a simple cheese board.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 0 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 160 kcal
For the Sangria:
- 1 bottle 750ml dry white wine
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur like Cointreau or Triple Sec
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
Fruits & Extras:
- 1 crisp apple thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange thinly sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Fresh rosemary sprigs optional, for garnish
- Sparkling water or soda optional, for a little fizz
Step 1: Prep the Fruit
Wash the apple, orange, and cranberries thoroughly.
Thinly slice the apple and orange so they release their flavors quickly.
Toss the cranberries into a small bowl—these will float beautifully and add that signature tartness.
Pro Tip: Slice the fruit right before mixing so it stays fresh and vibrant in color.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large pitcher, pour in the dry white wine, cranberry juice, brandy, and orange liqueur.
Add the honey or maple syrup.
Gently stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
Pro Tip: Stir slowly so you don’t bruise the fruit; this keeps the sangria looking gorgeous.
Step 3: Add the Fruit and Extras
Drop in the sliced apples, oranges, and cranberries.
Add the cinnamon stick and, if you like, a sprig of fresh rosemary for aroma.
Stir gently to combine.
Pro Tip: If you want a bolder flavor, let the sangria sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours—this allows the fruit to infuse the wine.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Just before serving, top with a splash of sparkling water or soda if you prefer a little fizz.
Pour into glasses, making sure each glass gets a mix of the fruit.
Garnish with an extra cinnamon stick or rosemary sprig for a festive touch.
Pro Tip: For a make-ahead option, prepare the sangria the night before your gathering. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight—perfect for Thanksgiving sangria or other holiday festivities.
Nutritional Value (per serving – approx. 1 glass)
- Calories: ~160–180
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Sugars: ~15g
- Alcohol: ~12–14g (varies with wine/liqueur choice)
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
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Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.
Keyword cranberry apple sangria, sangria