This Cranberry Sangria is a colorful and fruity drink that’s perfect for parties! With juicy cranberries, sweet apples, and a splash of red wine, it’s super refreshing.
I love how easy it is to throw together. Just mix everything in a pitcher and let it chill. It’s like a party in a glass—cheers to that! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works great, but feel free to use any full-bodied red wine you enjoy. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, opt for non-alcoholic red wine or grape juice for a similar taste.
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice enhances the flavor. If you like a sweeter punch, go for lightly sweetened juice or mix in some fizzy lemonade.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau or Triple Sec adds a nice citrus note. If you don’t have either, you can use orange juice mixed with a splash of soda for a lighter version.
Brandy: It adds depth. You can also use whiskey or omit it if you prefer a lighter sangria.
Fruit: Fresh cranberries are excellent for garnish. You can mix in any seasonal fruits like pears, peaches, or berries for a fun twist.
How Do I Make My Sangria Even More Flavorful?
Letting your sangria sit is key. This allows the fruit flavors to infuse the drink. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Prepare your sangria at least 2 hours before serving, but overnight is best!
- Store it in the fridge to keep everything nice and cold.
- Don’t add ice until serving; this ensures your sangria doesn’t get watered down too quickly.
With these tips, you’ll be serving a flavorful and refreshing Cranberry Sangria every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Cranberry Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced, plus extra wedges for garnish
- 1 cup sliced apples (optional)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cranberry Sangria takes about 10 minutes to prepare and should chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows all the flavors to mingle beautifully, making for a refreshing drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large pitcher, pour in the entire bottle of red wine. Then add the cranberry juice, orange liqueur, brandy, and simple syrup. Stir everything together well until it’s nicely blended. This is where the magic begins!
2. Add the Fruit:
Now it’s time to make it pretty! Add the fresh cranberries, thinly sliced orange, lime slices, and sliced apples (if you’re using them) to the pitcher. These fruits not only look lovely but also enhance the flavor of your sangria.
3. Chill Out:
Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let the mixture chill for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, overnight is the way to go. This allows all the fruits to infuse the sangria.
4. Serve It Up:
When you’re ready to serve, fill the pitcher with ice cubes to keep your sangria cold. You can also add ice straight into your serving glasses! Pour the sangria into glasses, making sure each gets a bit of fruit in it. Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of each glass.
5. Enjoy!
Raise your glass and enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Sangria with friends and family. Perfect for any festive occasion!
Can I Use a Different Type of Wine?
Absolutely! While Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are great choices, you can use any red wine you prefer, such as Pinot Noir or Shiraz. Just keep in mind that sweeter wines will give a different taste to the sangria.
Can I Make This Sangria Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! You can create a delicious non-alcoholic version by substituting the red wine and brandy with grape juice or a mix of cranberry juice and sparkling water for some fizz. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors without the alcohol!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sangria?
Leftover sangria can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember that the fruit will continue to soak in the liquid, which can change the flavor. Always serve it chilled and stir gently before pouring.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
You can add a variety of fruits to your sangria! Consider using peaches, berries, or pineapple for a tropical twist. The key is to use fresh and seasonal fruits for the best flavor and presentation!
