Cranberry Sangria is a fun, fruity drink that’s perfect for any gathering! It mixes tart cranberry juice with fresh fruits like oranges and apples, plus a splash of wine to keep things lively.
This drink is a crowd-pleaser, and honestly, who can resist a pretty glass of sangria? I love making it ahead of time so all the flavors mix nicely while I sit back and relax with friends. Cheers! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: A robust red like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works best for a good flavor base. If you’re not into red wine, you can try using a white wine like Pinot Grigio for a lighter version.
Cranberry Juice: I like using unsweetened cranberry juice to keep it tart, but if you prefer sweetness, use the sweetened variety. You can also substitute with pomegranate juice for a different twist!
Orange Liqueur: Triple sec or Cointreau adds a nice citrus kick. If you want to skip the alcohol, a splash of orange juice can work instead, but adjust sweetness as needed.
Brandy: This adds depth, but feel free to omit it if you’d like a lighter drink. For a non-alcoholic option, consider using apple cider for added sweetness.
Fruits: Fresh cranberries, oranges, and lemons give great flavor and color to your sangria. For a fun addition, throw in some sliced apples or berries!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Sangria?
The key to a flavorful sangria lies in letting it rest! After mixing your ingredients, cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but 4 to 6 hours is ideal. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. If you have time, making it the night before works wonders!
- Mix all the liquids together and taste; adjust with simple syrup if required.
- Add the fruits and give it a gentle stir. Cover and chill to enhance the flavor.
- When serving, always pour over ice and include fresh fruit slices in the glass for a great presentation.
How to Make Delicious Cranberry Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sangria:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or sweetened to taste)
- 1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as triple sec or Cointreau)
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 cup simple syrup or to taste (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
Fruits:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
For Serving:
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary, for garnish
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sangria takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 2 hours to chill in the fridge. Preparing it ahead of time (4 to 6 hours) is ideal to let all those lovely flavors come together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large pitcher, pour in the red wine, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and brandy (if you choose to include it). Gently stir everything together to combine the flavors.
2. Sweeten It Up:
If you like your sangria on the sweeter side, drizzle in the simple syrup and give it a taste. Adjust the sweetness further if necessary until it’s just how you like it.
3. Add the Fruits:
Now it’s time to add the fun! Toss in the fresh cranberries, thin slices of orange, and lemon. These not only enhance the flavor but also make your sangria look beautiful!
4. Chill and Allow to Marinate:
Cover the pitcher and pop it in the fridge for a minimum of 2 hours; letting it chill for 4 to 6 hours is even better. This waiting period lets the flavors meld together deliciously.
5. Serve with Style:
When you’re ready to enjoy your sangria, fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the chilled sangria over the ice, making sure to include some of the fruit and cranberries for a lovely presentation.
6. Add a Garnish:
To finish it off, garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a lovely aroma as you sip away.
7. Enjoy!
Serve and enjoy your homemade cranberry sangria! It’s perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just a relaxing evening at home. Cheers!
Can I Use White Wine Instead of Red Wine?
Absolutely! While traditional sangria uses red wine, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio can create a refreshing variation. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness based on the type of wine you choose.
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Sangria?
Leftover sangria can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just keep it covered to maintain its freshness. However, the fruit may start to lose its texture after a day, so it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two.
Can I Make This Sangria Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! Simply use grape juice or a mix of cranberry juice and sparkling water in place of the wine and liqueur. You can also add more fresh fruit for added flavor!
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
You can get creative with fruits! Consider adding sliced strawberries, peaches, or apples for additional sweetness and variety. Just make sure they complement the cranberry flavor for the best taste!
