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Easy Caramel Apple Cider Sangria Best Fall Drink Recipe

caramel apple cider sangria - featured image

This Easy Caramel Apple Cider Sangria is a quick, five-minute prep fall cocktail that tastes like autumn in a glass. With apple cider, white wine, caramel sauce, and fresh fruit, it’s a crowd-pleasing drink perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (950 ml) apple cider
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple brandy or bourbon (optional)
  • 2 large Honeycrisp apples, cored and thinly sliced
  • 1 large Bosc pear, cored and thinly sliced
  • 2 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 2 whole star anise pods (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup (240 ml) club soda or ginger beer, for topping
  • Ice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Wash the apples and pear. Core them, then slice into thin rounds or half-moons. Keep the skin on for color and texture.
  2. Layer the fruit in a large pitcher. Add the cinnamon sticks and star anise pods if using.
  3. Spoon the caramel sauce over the fruit. If thick, microwave for 10 seconds to loosen.
  4. Pour in the apple brandy or bourbon if using.
  5. Add the entire bottle of white wine and all 4 cups of apple cider. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the caramel is fully incorporated.
  6. Stir in the fresh lemon juice.
  7. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4-6 hours or overnight.
  8. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice. Stir the sangria, then pour over ice, ensuring each glass gets fruit and a cinnamon stick. Top with a splash of club soda or ginger beer. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top if desired.

Notes

Use a dry white wine to balance the sweetness. Chilling for at least 4 hours is recommended for best flavor. The sangria can be made up to 24 hours ahead; add club soda or ginger beer just before serving. For a non-alcoholic version, omit wine and brandy and use 4 cups apple cider and 4 cups sparkling apple cider or ginger ale.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apple cider sangria, fall sangria, apple cider cocktail, easy sangria recipe, fall drink