Refreshing and fruity, this cranberry sangria is perfect for gatherings. With crisp cranberry juice, fresh fruit, and a splash of wine, it’s a cheerful drink for everyone!
Making this sangria is a breeze! I love to mix it in a big pitcher and let it chill while I prep snacks. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe—so keep it handy! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot gives a rich flavor to this sangria. If you prefer white wine, a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc works well, too!
Cranberry Juice: Use unsweetened cranberry juice for a tart kick or lightly sweetened if you like it sweeter. If cranberry juice isn’t available, pomegranate juice can be a tasty substitute.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau and Triple Sec add wonderful citrus notes. If you want a non-alcoholic option, consider using orange juice or omit it altogether.
Brandy: This adds depth, but you can substitute it with vodka or rum if you prefer something lighter.
Fresh Fruits: The sliced orange and cranberries are key, but feel free to add other fruits like apples or berries for additional flavors.
How Can I Make Sure My Sangria Stays Refreshing?
The key to a refreshing sangria is letting it chill! Here’s how:
- Mix all ingredients except the sparkling water ahead of time and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
- Just before serving, add the sparkling water to keep it fizzy. The club soda lightens it up!
- Serve over ice to keep it cool and refreshing. Use large ice cubes to minimize dilution.
The fruits in the sangria not only add flavor but also make it look beautiful. So, don’t be shy with the fruit! Enjoy your sangria party!
Cranberry Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1/2 cup brandy
For Sweetness:
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
For Fresh Fruit Flavor:
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
For Serving:
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda (for serving)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sangria takes around 15 minutes to prepare. Be sure to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best flavor, before serving. Enjoy a refreshing drink that’s perfect for parties or relaxing evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Base:
Start by taking a large pitcher and pour in the red wine, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and brandy. Use a spoon or whisk to stir everything together until well mixed. This is the delicious base of your sangria!
2. Sweeten to Taste:
Next, add the simple syrup gradually, stirring as you go. Taste the mixture to see if it’s sweet enough for your liking. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more syrup if you prefer.
3. Add the Fresh Fruits:
Now it’s time for the fruity goodness! Toss in the sliced orange, lemon (if you’re using it), and fresh cranberries. Give it a gentle stir to incorporate the fruit throughout the sangria.
4. Chill and Let the Flavors Blend:
Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. If you can let it chill overnight, that will allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
5. Serve with a Fizzy Finish:
When you’re ready to serve, give the sangria a good stir. Pour in the sparkling water or club soda to add a refreshing fizz. This will keep your drink light and bubbly.
6. Pour and Enjoy:
Fill your glasses with ice cubes, then pour the cranberry sangria over the ice. Make sure to include some of the lovely fruit in each glass for a beautiful presentation.
7. Garnish for a Festive Touch:
If you want to make it extra special, garnish each glass with a fresh rosemary sprig. This adds a lovely aroma and makes your sangria look fabulous!
Cheers to your vibrant, festive cranberry sangria! Enjoy it chilled and share the joy with friends and family!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Sangria?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like strawberries, apples, or pineapple for added flavor. Just make sure they complement the cranberry and citrus notes!
Can I Make This Recipe Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! To create a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the wine and brandy. Replace them with extra cranberry juice and a splash of sparkling water. It’ll still be delicious and refreshing!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sangria?
Leftover sangria can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best consumed within the first day to enjoy the fresh fruit flavors and fizz. Just remember to add more sparkling water when serving leftovers!
Can I Prepare This Sangria in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sangria a day ahead of time by mixing all ingredients except the sparkling water. Just add the fizzy water just before serving to keep it refreshing!