This Cranberry Sangria is a fun and fruity drink perfect for gatherings! It blends tart cranberry juice, sweet red wine, and fresh fruits for a colorful splash.
I love serving this at parties; it’s so easy to make and everyone enjoys it. Just mix, chill, and let the good times roll—cheers to that! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works well for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, a Pinot Noir can be a good substitute. I prefer a wine that isn’t too sweet so it balances the fruitiness of the sangria.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend using unsweetened cranberry juice to keep it tart and refreshing. If unavailable, you can use sweetened cranberry juice, but consider lowering the simple syrup to balance sweetness.
Orange Liqueur: Typical choices are Triple Sec or Cointreau. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, just add more orange juice and a splash of soda for fizz.
Brandy: It’s used for a deeper flavor, but you can skip it or use vodka as a lighter alternative. For a non-alcoholic version, increase the cranberry juice instead.
Fruits: Feel free to get creative! You can add strawberries, lemons, or even mix in some pomegranate seeds. I like using what’s in season for the freshest flavors.
How Do You Make Sure the Sangria Is Well-Infused?
Allowing your sangria to chill in the fridge is key to blending the flavors. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Combine all liquid ingredients in a pitcher first. This ensures an even mix.
- After adding fruit, give it a good stir so the fruits release their flavors.
- Let it sit for at least 4 hours; overnight is best for truly infused flavors.
- Remember to taste before serving! Adjust sweetness with more simple syrup if needed.
This waiting game creates a tasty, refreshing drink that’s perfect for parties or a relaxing night in! Enjoy the flavor adventure!
How to Make Cranberry Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 cup cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup simple syrup or to taste
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 large orange, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and cut into small cubes
- Ice cubes, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cranberry Sangria takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should ideally chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. This chilling time allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a deliciously refreshing drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large pitcher, combine the dry red wine, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, brandy, and simple syrup. Give it a good stir to mix everything together nicely. This is where the magic begins, so make sure to mix it well!
2. Add Fresh Fruits:
Now it’s time to bring in the fruits! Add the fresh cranberries, sliced orange, and cubed apple to the pitcher. Stir gently to distribute the fruits throughout the liquid. The fruits will not only add flavor but also make your sangria look beautiful!
3. Chill Out:
Cover your pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the sangria to chill for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better. This step helps the flavors develop, giving you a tastier drink when it’s time to serve!
4. Prepare to Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy your sangria, add ice cubes to the pitcher or directly into glasses. This will keep your drink nice and cold as you serve it.
5. Pour and Garnish:
Carefully pour the sangria into glasses, making sure to include some of the delicious fruit in each serving. If you want to get fancy, garnish with additional orange slices or some fresh cranberries on top!
6. Delight and Enjoy:
Serve your Cranberry Sangria chilled and watch everyone delight in this delicious, fruity drink. Enjoy with friends and family, and cheers to good times!
Can I Use Different Fruits in My Sangria?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cranberries, oranges, and apples, feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits like strawberries, peaches, or even kiwi. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy serving!
How Can I Make It Less Sweet?
If you find the sangria too sweet, you can reduce the amount of simple syrup or use unsweetened cranberry juice. Additionally, using a drier red wine will help balance out the sweetness.
Can I Make This Sangria Alcohol-Free?
Yes! You can easily turn this into a non-alcoholic drink by omitting the wine, brandy, and orange liqueur. Substitute with more cranberry juice, sparkling water, and some orange juice for added flavor and fizz.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sangria?
Leftover sangria can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure to keep it tightly covered. However, keep in mind that the fresh fruit may start to lose its texture and flavor over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!