If you’re looking for fall in a glass, this apple cider sangria is what you need! Crisp apple cider, Pinot Grigio, smooth caramel vodka, and honey all together for the ultimate autumn cocktail. It’s sweet, crisp, and gives off those caramel apple vibes. Perfect for chilly evenings, bonfires, hayrides, or your Thanksgiving table.
Why You Will Love Apple Cider Sangria
- Easy - Only five simple ingredients are needed for this seasonal sangria.
- Crowd Pleasing - Make several batches for Thanksgiving, bonfires, or any fall party.
- Make Ahead Friendly - Prepare this ahead of time and chill, so you can spend more time with your guests (or enjoy your evening in).
Ingredients
Before you head to the recipe card for exact measurements, here’s a quick look at what you’ll be using.
- White Wine – While most sangrias use red wine, I love using Pinot Grigio here. Its light, fruity flavor complements the apple cider perfectly.
- Apple Cider – This is the heart of the recipe, giving that rich, spiced fall flavor we all love.
- Caramel Vodka – Instead of brandy, caramel vodka adds smooth sweetness, turning this drink into an authentic caramel apple sangria.
- Apples – Fresh, crisp apple pieces soak up all that goodness and add a fun little snack to your glass.
- Honey – I like using honey instead of sugar because it blends easily and adds subtle sweetness. I buy local honey by the quart!
- Cinnamon Sticks - Optional
Instructions
- Grab a large pitcher (at least two quarts). Make sure your pitcher has enough room for the wine, cider, vodka, apples, and a little space for stirring.
- Wash, core, and chop one apple, then toss it into the pitcher. - You can peel the apple if you prefer, but I like leaving the skin on. Feel free to use a mix of apple varieties.
- Add the white wine, apple cider, caramel vodka, and honey. Pour the wine, cider, and the caramel vodka first, then add the honey last so it blends smoothly. Give everything a good stir to help the honey dissolve and distribute the caramel flavor throughout the sangria.
- Refrigerate for 4–8 hours to allow the flavors to mingle. Letting it chill for several hours is key to getting a beautifully balanced flavor.
- When ready to serve, pour into wine glasses, mason jars, or whiskey glasses. Add a few apple pieces to each glass and, if you want a little extra garnish, drop in a cinnamon stick. You can also serve it over ice if you prefer a colder drink.
Tips For the Best Apple Cider Sangria
- Garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick or an apple slice for a fall finish.
Variations
- A tart green apple works beautifully, but any variety will do.
- Feel free to swap the Pinot Grigio for your favorite white wine; a sweeter one means you can skip the honey.
Apple Cider Sangria
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 5 Glasses 1x
Description
This apple cider sangria is the perfect fall cocktail! Made with apple cider, white wine, caramel vodka, and fresh apples, it tastes just like a caramel apple in a glass. Easy to make ahead and ideal for Thanksgiving or fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 bottle Pinot Grigio (or your favorite white wine)
- 2 cups apple cider
- ½ cup caramel vodka
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 green apple
- Cinnamon sticks (optional)
Instructions
- Wash, core, and chop the apple. Add to a two quart pitcher.
- Stir in the wine, apple cider, caramel vodka, and honey. Stir well until the honey is thoroughly incorporated.
- Chill for at least four hours up to eight hours
- Serve in wine glasses, mason jars, or lowball glasses
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and additional apples if desired.
Notes
- A tart green apple works beautifully, but any variety will do.
- Feel free to swap the Pinot Grigio for your favorite white wine — a sweeter one means you can reduce the honey.
- Garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick or apple slice for that extra fall flair.
- Prep Time: 5
- Category: Drinks
- Cuisine: American
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