The essence of autumn in a glass, this spiced apple cider sangria infuses your favorite apple cider with dry white wine, crisp fresh fruit, a splash of brandy, and a dash of spice. Whether you're inviting friends for a cozy fall gathering or simply craving a seasonal cocktail, this sangria recipe is sure to become an autumn favorite!

More Autumn recipes anyone??? Can't stop won't stop 😍. Now I feel it's about time for a seasonal cocktail. This might be the one place in Fall where I find apple shines brighter than pumpkin. *Gasp* the HORROR! Although I think some of you might be relieved at a break in the constant barrage of pumpkin recipes I know at least I've been receiving in my inbox! Anyhoo, how about a glass of spiced apple cider sangria?
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Ingredients
So you're ready for an autumn themed glass of goodness. Here's what you need:
- Spiced apple cider - You can't have a spiced apple cider sangria without it!
- Dry White Wine - Since there is so much sweetness added to this beverage with the fruit and the cider, I prefer to use a dry yet fruity wine, like a sauvignon blanc.
- Apple Brandy - It adds a lovely depth to the sangria, plus some extra flavor. Use a good-quality brandy with a smooth finish for best results.
- Fresh Autumn fruits - Definitely apples, both red and green. Plus some orange slices and pomegranate seeds!
- Cinnamon sticks - To up the autumn flavor ante.
- Ginger beer or ginger ale - This one is optional, really, but it adds lovely bubbles and a touch of spice.
- Club soda - More bubbles!

Substitutions and Variations
There are a few ways to switch up this spiced apple cider sangria, and some delicious twists you can try!
First, if you can't find apple brandy, not to worry. Regular brandy is perfectly fine. You can even try some other flavored brandy if you're interested! I've heard ginger brandy is a particularly interesting take.
Second, you don't have/don't like brandy. You can add a little bit of your favorite whiskey if you'd prefer or just skip it entirely. Up to you!
Third, the fruit. I'd say stick with apples (obvi) but other than that, grab whatever is in season! Grapes, currants, berries, even figs (though I'd be careful with those, as they can get mushy).

Serving Suggestions
Well, you've got the perfect cocktail, but how do you serve it? Three ways.
- In a festive wine glass topped with a slice of apple and a cinnamon stick. If you want to get really swanky, rim the top of each glass with some cinnamon sugar. Add a pinch of ground ginger for extra spice!
- Grab your favorite pitcher with a ladle and let your guests do the work 😎.
- In a to-go cup so you can enjoy a glass out by the blazing fire on a crisp autumn day!

FAQs About This Recipe
Yes! As a matter of fact, you should make it ahead of time to let the fruits marinate in the liquid and absorb all that flavor. You can make this recipe up to 12 hours in advance. I wouldn't do overnight (the wine may get vinegary).
No, as a matter of fact. Kind of like how red wine and mulled wine aren't the same. Spiced apple cider was brewed with seasonal spices like clove, star anise, cardamom, and cinnamon, among others.
If you have a question that wasn't answered above, feel free to ask it in the comments section below!


Spiced Apple Cider Sangria
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 to 6 1x
Description
The essence of autumn in a glass, this spiced apple cider sangria infuses your favorite apple cider with dry white wine, crisp fresh fruit, a splash of brandy, and a dash of spice. Whether you're inviting friends for a cozy fall gathering or simply craving a seasonal cocktail, this sangria recipe is sure to become an autumn favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups spiced apple cider
- 1 750 ml bottle dry white wine (I used sauvignon blanc)
- ½ cup apple brandy*
- 2 to 3 apples, sliced thinly (I used honeycrisp and granny smith apples)
- 2 to 3 oranges, sliced thinly
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 4 to 6 cinnamon sticks
- ½ cup ginger ale or ginger beer
- Club soda for serving
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except the ginger beer and club soda in a large pitcher and stir together. Refrigerate until ready to serve, preferably for an hour or so to let the fruit marinate. 4 hours is best!
- When ready to serve, stir in ginger ale or ginger beer. Pour into desired glass, top with a splash of club soda as desired, and enjoy!
Notes
I used apple brandy for the extra autumn flavor! Regular brandy works just as well. You could even a ginger brandy for a slightly different flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
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