Autumn is here, and what better way to celebrate the cozy season than with a warm and inviting drink? Forget pumpkin spice lattes; this year, let's elevate our fall gatherings with a vibrant and refreshing Autumn Sangria. This easy recipe is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and festive weekend brunches. It's a delicious and impressive drink that's surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner home cooks. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this homemade masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (such as Rioja or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1/2 cup brandy or orange liqueur (like Cointreau) – optional, but adds depth!
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 large oranges, thinly sliced
- 1 apple (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- Optional Garnishes: Orange slices, apple slices, cinnamon sticks
Instructions:
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Prepare your fruit: Begin by washing and slicing the oranges and apple thinly. The thinner the slices, the better they'll infuse the sangria with flavor. Pomegranate seeds add a beautiful pop of color and a juicy burst.
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Combine the liquids: In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, brandy (if using), apple cider, and orange juice. Gently stir to combine.
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Infuse the flavors: Add the sliced oranges, apple slices, pomegranate seeds, cinnamon stick, and cloves to the pitcher. Stir gently once more.
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Chill and serve: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the sangria to chill thoroughly. The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes!
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Serve and enjoy: Before serving, give the sangria a gentle stir. Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish with an orange slice, apple slice, and a cinnamon stick for an extra touch of autumnal charm.
Cooking Tips for the Best Autumn Sangria:
- Choose your wine wisely: A good quality dry red wine is key. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can overpower the other flavors.
- Don't over-muddle: Gently stir the ingredients to avoid bruising the fruit and releasing bitter compounds.
- Adjust to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of apple cider or orange juice to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sangria, add a tablespoon or two of simple syrup.
- Get creative with garnishes: Experiment with different fruits like cranberries, pears, or even grapes for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Sparkling Sangria: For a bubbly twist, add 1/2 cup of sparkling wine or club soda just before serving.
- Spicy Sangria: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño pepper for a spicy kick.
- Non-alcoholic Sangria: Substitute the red wine and brandy with cranberry juice and sparkling grape juice for a delicious non-alcoholic version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving of this Autumn Sangria contains approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Sugar: 10-15g
This easy autumn sangria recipe is the perfect addition to any fall gathering. It's a delightful drink that beautifully captures the essence of the season. Enjoy responsibly!