Apple Cider Sangria with Fresh Fall Fruits

Apple Cider Sangria with Fresh Fall Fruits is the perfect drink to celebrate the cozy flavors of autumn. It’s a refreshing mix of crisp apple cider, white wine, and a…

By Clara
•
October 4, 2025
•
Reading time: 6 min

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Apple Cider Sangria with Fresh Fall Fruits is the perfect drink to celebrate the cozy flavors of autumn. It’s a refreshing mix of crisp apple cider, white wine, and a colorful medley of fresh fall fruits like apples, pears, and berries. This sangria has just the right balance of sweetness and spice, making it a great sipper for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family.

I love how easy this sangria is to make, yet it always impresses everyone. One of my favorite tips is to let it chill in the fridge for a few hours so all the fruity flavors get to mingle and shine. The fresh fruit floating in the glass makes every sip feel special, and I’m always tempted to keep sneaking a piece of apple or pear from the pitcher!

Whenever I serve this sangria, I usually pair it with simple appetizers like cheese and crackers or roasted nuts. It’s a drink that brings a bit of fall magic to any party, whether it’s a big celebration or just a relaxed night at home. I find myself going back to this recipe every fall because it’s such a cozy, crowd-pleasing classic.

How Do I Get the Best Flavor by Infusing the Fresh Fruits?

Letting your sangria chill is key! The fruits need time to release their juice and soak up the wine’s flavor. Here’s how to do it well:

• After mixing everything, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours; 4 hours or overnight is even better.
• Stir gently a couple of times while chilling to help the flavors mingle.
• Add ice right before serving to keep it cold without watering it down too soon.
• Use a mixture of diced and sliced fruits so you get bursts of flavor and a pretty presentation.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pitcher – perfect for mixing and chilling all the ingredients together.
• Sharp knife – makes chopping fruit into bite-sized pieces easy and safe.
• Cutting board – provides a clean surface to prep your fresh fruits.
• Wooden spoon or stirring utensil – helps mix the sangria gently without bruising the fruit.
• Glasses or stemless wine glasses – great for serving and showing off the colorful fruit pieces.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap white wine for rosé or bubbly sparkling wine to add a fruity or festive twist.
• Add sliced ginger or a splash of ginger beer for a slight spicy kick that pairs well with fall fruits.
• Include fresh cranberries or frozen berries to give a tart contrast and pretty color.
• Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness when using tart cider or fruit.

How to Make Apple Cider Sangria with Fresh Fall Fruits?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Sangria:

• 4 cups apple cider
• 1 bottle (750 ml) white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (e.g., Triple Sec or Cointreau)

For the Fresh Fruits & Spices:

• 1 apple, cored and diced (leave skin on for color)
• 1 pear, cored and diced
• 1 orange, peeled and sliced into rounds or half-moons
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup diced persimmon or firm peaches (optional, for more fall flavor)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
• Ice cubes, as needed

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours to chill and let the flavors blend. For the best taste, refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. Serve chilled and enjoy the crisp, fresh fall flavors!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mixing the Liquid Ingredients:

Take a large pitcher and pour in the apple cider, white wine, brandy, and orange liqueur. Give everything a gentle stir to combine without losing bubbles if using sparkling options.

2. Adding the Fresh Fruits and Spices:

Carefully add the diced apple, pear, orange slices, pomegranate seeds, and persimmon (if you’re using it) into the pitcher. Drop in the cinnamon sticks and stir gently to mix all the flavors together.

3. Chilling to Marry the Flavors:

Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill and rest for at least 2 hours, but 4 hours or overnight is best to let the fruits release their flavors and soak up the sangria.

4. Serving the Sangria:

Before serving, give the sangria a good stir. Add ice cubes to the pitcher or directly into glasses to keep it cold. Pour into your favorite glasses, making sure each glass gets some fresh fruit pieces.

5. Garnishing and Enjoying:

Finish each glass with a sprig of fresh rosemary and an extra cinnamon stick if you like. Sip slowly and enjoy the refreshing, cozy taste of fall in every glass!

Can I Use Sparkling Wine Instead of Still White Wine?

Absolutely! Using sparkling wine adds a fun fizz to the sangria. Just add the sparkling wine right before serving to keep the bubbles fresh.

How Long Can I Store Leftover Sangria?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 2 days. The fruit will continue to infuse the sangria, but it’s best enjoyed fresh within that time.

Can I Make This Sangria Without Alcohol?

Yes! Simply skip the white wine, brandy, and orange liqueur. Use extra apple cider and add a splash of sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine for bubbles.

What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Fruit?

Wash all fruits thoroughly. Core and dice apples and pears with the skin on for color and texture. Peel the orange and slice thinly. This keeps the sangria colorful and flavorful.