Hot Cider Sangria: A Warm, Spiced Fall Cocktail

Introduction

When fall arrives, bringing crisp air, golden leaves, and cozy evenings, there’s nothing better than a warm, spiced cocktail to celebrate the season. Enter Hot Cider Sangria—a delicious fusion of classic sangria and comforting hot apple cider, filled with warm spices, seasonal fruits, and a smooth splash of wine and brandy. It’s sweet, boozy, and irresistibly cozy, making it the perfect fall and holiday drink!

I first discovered warm sangria at a fall festival, where a steaming cup of spiced wine mixed with cider, cinnamon, and fresh apples instantly became my new favorite autumn cocktail. Since then, I’ve been making my own version—infusing red wine, brandy, fresh citrus, and crisp apples into warm cider for a rich, smooth, and perfectly spiced drink. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, enjoying a bonfire night, or just snuggling up on a chilly evening, this Hot Cider Sangria is guaranteed to bring warmth and festive cheer to every sip.

---

The Perfect Warm & Spiced Fall Cocktail

This Hot Cider Sangria is rich, fruity, and filled with seasonal spices, making it a must-try drink for fall and winter. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Apple cider creates a naturally sweet and spiced base.
• Red wine adds a rich, smooth depth.
• Brandy or bourbon enhances the warmth and booziness.
• Cinnamon, cloves, and star anise bring cozy holiday spice.
• Fresh apples, oranges, and cranberries add a burst of fruity flavor.
• It’s easy to make in big batches—perfect for holiday gatherings!

Whether you’re looking for a unique warm cocktail, a fun twist on classic sangria, or a festive party drink, this Hot Cider Sangria is the ultimate cozy and comforting fall beverage!

---

Picture Gallery

---

Why Apple Cider, Wine, and Spices Work So Well Together

Apple Cider: The Naturally Sweet & Spiced Base

Fresh apple cider provides a crisp, slightly tart, and naturally sweet flavor, making it the perfect foundation for a warm sangria.

Red Wine: The Bold, Fruity Depth

Using a medium-bodied red wine (such as Merlot or Zinfandel) brings rich berry flavors and a smooth finish, complementing the cider’s natural sweetness.

Brandy or Bourbon: The Boozy, Warming Kick

A splash of brandy or bourbon enhances the warmth, giving the sangria a deep, complex, and slightly smoky character.

Cinnamon, Cloves, & Star Anise: The Ultimate Fall Spices

These spices infuse the drink with a cozy, aromatic warmth, making it feel like autumn in a glass.

Fresh Fruits: The Natural Sweetener & Garnish

Sliced apples, oranges, and cranberries add a burst of freshness and color, making the sangria both delicious and visually stunning.

---

How to Make Hot Cider Sangria

Ingredients

For the Sangria Base:

• 4 cups fresh apple cider
• 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (Merlot, Zinfandel, or Cabernet Sauvignon)
• ½ cup brandy or bourbon
• ¼ cup maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• ½ cup fresh cranberries
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 star anise (optional, for extra spice)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Orange slices
• Cinnamon sticks
• Pomegranate seeds or cranberries

---

Instructions

Step 1: Simmer the Apple Cider & Spices

1. In a large pot, heat the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and maple syrup over medium-low heat.
2. Let it simmer (not boil) for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

Step 2: Add the Wine & Brandy

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the red wine, brandy (or bourbon), and vanilla extract.
2. Add the sliced oranges, apples, and cranberries.
3. Let the mixture warm gently for another 10 minutes (do not boil, or the alcohol will cook off).

Step 3: Adjust & Serve

1. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup or honey, if needed.
2. Remove the spices and ladle the sangria into heatproof mugs.

Step 4: Garnish & Enjoy!

1. Garnish with orange slices, a cinnamon stick, and fresh cranberries.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, spiced, and cozy flavors of fall!

---

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this sangria alcohol-free?

Yes! Simply omit the wine and brandy and replace them with an extra 2 cups of apple cider and 1 cup of cranberry juice for a delicious non-alcoholic version.

2. What’s the best wine to use?

Use a medium-bodied red wine with rich berry flavors and a smooth finish. Some great choices include:

• Merlot (smooth and fruity)
• Zinfandel (rich and slightly spicy)
• Cabernet Sauvignon (bold and full-bodied)

3. Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Yes! You can simmer the cider and spices ahead of time, then add the wine and brandy just before serving. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours and reheat gently before serving.

4. How can I make this drink extra spiced?

• Add ½ tsp grated fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
• Let the cider simmer longer with extra cinnamon sticks and cloves.
• Use a spiced red wine for an even bolder flavor.

5. Can I serve this sangria cold instead of hot?

Yes! Simply chill the sangria for at least 2 hours and serve over ice for a refreshing fall cocktail.

---

Variations

• Caramel Apple Sangria: Add ¼ cup caramel syrup for a dessert-like twist.
• Spiked Pear Cider Sangria: Swap apples for pears and use pear brandy instead of regular brandy.
• Cranberry Apple Sangria: Replace some apple cider with cranberry juice for a tart, festive flavor.
• Mulled Wine Sangria: Add extra cloves and a splash of orange liqueur for a classic mulled wine twist.
• Bourbon Maple Sangria: Swap brandy for bourbon and extra maple syrup for a smoky, caramel-like flavor.

---

When to Serve It

Thanksgiving & Holiday Gatherings

A warm, festive drink that pairs perfectly with seasonal dishes.

Bonfire Nights & Cozy Evenings

The ultimate drink to sip while wrapped in a blanket by the fire.

Halloween & Fall Parties

A crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make batch cocktail.

Christmas Celebrations

A fun alternative to classic mulled wine or hot toddies.

Pairing with Fall Desserts

Pairs beautifully with pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or cinnamon rolls.

---

Conclusion

This Hot Cider Sangria is the perfect combination of rich red wine, spiced apple cider, warm fall spices, and sweet seasonal fruit, making it a must-have autumn and holiday cocktail. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, with brandy or bourbon, extra sweet or extra spiced, this sangria is guaranteed to bring warmth and cheer to any gathering.

Try it out, customize it to your taste, and let me know how you like it! Cheers to a spiced, cozy, and wine-filled fall season! 🍎🍷🍂