Description

Caramel Apple Sangria is the ultimate fall cocktail, combining the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the rich, indulgent taste of caramel. This festive drink is perfect for autumn celebrations, from cozy gatherings to holiday parties. The smooth blend of white wine, fresh apple cider, caramel syrup, and crisp apples creates a refreshing yet decadent beverage that captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or simply enjoying a chilly evening, this sangria is a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time in large batches.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients List (with measurements)

1 bottle of white wine (750ml), such as Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, or Riesling
2 cups of apple cider (not apple juice), for a rich apple flavor
¼ cup of caramel syrup (store-bought or homemade)
2 medium apples (preferably one sweet and one tart, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith), sliced
1 cup of club soda or sparkling water for a refreshing fizz (optional)
½ cup of brandy or apple brandy (optional for added depth and warmth)
Cinnamon sticks (1-2 for garnish)
1 orange, thinly sliced (optional)
Ice cubes for serving

Optional Garnishes:

Extra caramel syrup for drizzling on the glass rims
Apple slices for garnishing each glass
Cinnamon sugar for rimming the glasses

Instructions

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by washing and slicing your apples. For best results, slice them thinly, keeping the skin on for added color and texture. If you prefer a smoother drink, you can remove the apple skin. Use a combination of sweet and tart apples to give the sangria a balanced flavor.

Step 2: Combine the Wine and Cider

In a large pitcher, pour in the white wine and apple cider. Stir the liquids gently to combine. The wine provides the alcoholic base, while the apple cider adds depth and a rich autumnal flavor.

Step 3: Add the Caramel Syrup

Slowly drizzle in the caramel syrup while stirring continuously. The caramel adds sweetness and a rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the crisp apples and wine. Make sure the caramel syrup dissolves completely to avoid clumping at the bottom of the pitcher.

Step 4: Add the Fruit and Brandy (Optional)

Next, add the sliced apples and, if desired, thinly sliced oranges. If you want to give your sangria an extra kick, add ½ cup of brandy or apple brandy at this stage. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Chill the Sangria

Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best results, let the sangria chill for 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the fruit to infuse the wine with sweetness and tartness.

Step 6: Add Fizz (Optional)

Just before serving, add 1 cup of club soda or sparkling water to the sangria. This step is optional but adds a refreshing fizz that enhances the overall drink.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Prepare your glasses by drizzling a little caramel syrup around the rims. For an extra touch, dip the rims in cinnamon sugar after drizzling the caramel. Fill each glass with ice cubes, then pour the sangria over the ice. Garnish with extra apple slices and a cinnamon stick for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

Pro Tips for Enhancing the Flavor

Use Spiced Apple Cider: For an extra punch of fall flavor, use spiced apple cider instead of regular apple cider. The spices will complement the caramel and add warmth to the sangria, making it perfect for chilly autumn nights.
Experiment with Flavored Spirits: Instead of traditional brandy, try using apple brandy or spiced rum to enhance the apple and caramel flavors. A splash of bourbon can also add depth and a smoky, warming note to the drink.
Add Pears for Extra Flavor: Pears are another great fall fruit that pairs well with apples and caramel. Add a few slices of ripe pear to the sangria along with the apples for a subtle sweetness and complexity.
Use Cinnamon and Clove: Infuse your sangria with the warming flavors of fall by adding whole cinnamon sticks or a few cloves to the pitcher. As the sangria chills, the spices will slowly release their flavors, making the drink even more aromatic and flavorful.