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Spiced Apple Cider Sangria

Chef Elina
This Spiced Apple Cider Sangria is the ultimate fall pitcher cocktail! A homemade spiced apple cider reduction mingles with crisp white wine, brandy, and fresh fruit for a make-ahead drink that's perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any cozy autumn gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 35 minutes
Course Beverage, Cocktail, Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 8 serving
Calories 225 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Spiced Cider Reduction:2 ½ cups unfiltered apple cider½ cup dark brown sugar, packed2 cinnamon sticks5 whole cloves½ orange, sliced½ lemon, slicedFor the Sangria:1 (750 ml) bottle dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio½ cup brandy (or apple brandy)1 apple, thinly sliced (use a mix of Honeycrisp and Granny Smith)1 orange, thinly sliced¼ cup pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)For Serving:1 cup club soda or sparkling apple cider, chilledCinnamon sticks, for garnish

Instructions
 

Make the Spiced Cider Reduction: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and lemon slices. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by about a quarter and slightly thickened.Cool the Reduction: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the spiced cider reduction cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, strain out and discard the whole spices and fruit slices.Combine Sangria Base: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled spiced cider reduction, the entire bottle of white wine, and the brandy. Stir well to combine.Add the Fruit: Gently stir in the sliced apples and oranges.Marinate: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.Serve: Just before serving, stir in the chilled club soda or sparkling cider. Pour into glasses over ice, if desired, and garnish with a cinnamon stick and a few extra pomegranate seeds.

    Notes

    • Make-Ahead: This sangria is best made at least 4 hours ahead and can be made (without the club soda) up to 2 days in advance.
    • Wine Choice: Use a dry, crisp white wine you enjoy drinking on its own. Avoid "cooking wine."
    • Non-Alcoholic Version: Omit the wine and brandy. Replace with additional apple cider and a splash of red or white grape juice for complexity. Proceed with the rest of the recipe.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 225kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 1.8gFat: 0.2gFiber: 1.5gSugar: 12gVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg
    Keyword apple cider sangria, fall cocktail, pitcher cocktail, sangria recipe, spiced apple cider sangria
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