Spiced Cranberry Sangria: A Holiday Crowd-Pleaser

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Introduction

The holidays are all about gathering with loved ones, sharing laughter, and indulging in the flavors of the season. What better way to celebrate than with a festive, flavorful drink that’s made to share? Enter the Spiced Cranberry Sangria, a rich and warming twist on the classic sangria that captures the essence of the holidays in every sip. With tart cranberries, warming spices, and a splash of red wine, this drink is a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to any gathering.

I first made this sangria for a holiday party a few years ago. The idea was simple: take the refreshing nature of traditional sangria and give it a cozy, seasonal makeover. The result? A drink that became the star of the night, with guests returning for second (and third!) glasses. The combination of fresh cranberries, cinnamon, and cloves infused the wine with a depth of flavor that was as comforting as a winter fireplace.

Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter celebration, this Spiced Cranberry Sangria is the ultimate holiday drink. It’s easy to make, stunning to serve, and even easier to enjoy. Ready to make your next gathering extra special? Let’s dive in!

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The Perfect Drink for Festive Gatherings

The Spiced Cranberry Sangria is the epitome of a holiday cocktail. Its deep ruby hue and fragrant spices make it as visually inviting as it is delicious. The tartness of the cranberries balances beautifully with the warmth of the spices and the richness of the red wine, creating a drink that feels indulgent yet refreshing.

This sangria shines as a centerpiece for holiday parties, whether you’re hosting a casual Friendsgiving or an elegant Christmas dinner. It’s perfect for large gatherings since you can prepare it in advance and serve it in a big, beautiful pitcher. Plus, its festive flavors and inviting aroma make it an instant conversation starter.

From cozy winter nights to grand holiday feasts, the Spiced Cranberry Sangria is the drink that brings people together.

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Picture Gallery

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Why Cranberries and Spices Are a Match Made in Holiday Heaven

The magic of the Spiced Cranberry Sangria lies in the harmony of its ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:

• Cranberries: Tart and vibrant, cranberries are the heart of this sangria. Fresh cranberries infuse the wine with a subtle tang, while cranberry juice adds sweetness and depth. They also give the drink its signature holiday color.
• Oranges: Juicy and sweet, oranges add a burst of citrus brightness that balances the tartness of the cranberries. Orange slices also add a beautiful visual element to the sangria.
• Red Wine: The base of the sangria, red wine provides a rich, fruity backdrop for the other flavors. A medium-bodied red, like Merlot or Tempranillo, works best.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Cloves, Star Anise): These warming spices give the sangria its cozy, holiday vibe. Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise infuse the wine with a depth of flavor that’s reminiscent of mulled wine.
• Brandy: A splash of brandy adds warmth and a touch of sweetness, elevating the sangria to festive perfection.
• Sparkling Water (Optional): A splash of sparkling water or club soda adds effervescence, making the sangria light and refreshing.

Together, these ingredients create a drink that’s festive, flavorful, and perfectly balanced—a true holiday crowd-pleaser.

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How to Make Spiced Cranberry Sangria: The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (Merlot, Tempranillo, or Zinfandel work well)
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 2 cups cranberry juice (unsweetened for a tart flavor, sweetened for a sweeter sangria)
• 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 orange, thinly sliced (plus extra slices for garnish)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3-4 whole cloves
• 2 star anise pods (optional)
• 1/4 cup sugar or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
• Sparkling water or club soda (optional, for topping)
• Ice cubes (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large pitcher or bowl, combine the red wine, brandy, cranberry juice, and orange juice. Stir well to combine.
2. Add the Fruits and Spices: Add the fresh cranberries, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to the mixture. If you prefer a sweeter sangria, stir in the sugar or honey until dissolved.
3. Chill and Infuse: Cover the pitcher or bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it chills, the more the spices and fruits will infuse the sangria with their flavors.
4. Serve: When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the sangria over the ice. Top with a splash of sparkling water or club soda if desired for a bubbly twist. Garnish with extra cranberries, orange slices, or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.

Optional Variations:

• Add a splash of apple cider for a fruitier, autumnal twist.
• Swap brandy for Grand Marnier or Cointreau for a more citrusy flavor.
• Use white wine instead of red for a lighter, crisper version.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make this sangria in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just add the sparkling water or club soda right before serving to preserve the fizz.

2. What’s the best type of wine for sangria?
A medium-bodied red wine with fruity notes, like Merlot, Tempranillo, or Zinfandel, works best. Avoid wines that are too dry or tannic, as they can overpower the other flavors.

3. Can I make this sangria non-alcoholic?
Yes! Replace the wine and brandy with a combination of cranberry juice, grape juice, and sparkling water for a festive mocktail.

4. How can I customize the sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter sangria, use sweetened cranberry juice and orange juice, and add sugar or honey to taste. For a drier version, stick to unsweetened juices.

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Variations

Looking to put your own spin on the Spiced Cranberry Sangria? Try one of these creative twists:

1. Apple-Cranberry Sangria: Add sliced apples and a splash of apple cider for a fall-inspired version.
2. Pomegranate Sangria: Use pomegranate juice instead of cranberry juice and garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds.
3. White Cranberry Sangria: Swap red wine for white wine and use white cranberry juice for a lighter, golden-hued sangria.
4. Sparkling Cranberry Sangria: Use sparkling wine or champagne instead of red wine for a bubbly, celebratory twist.

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When to Serve It

Thanksgiving Feasts

The warm spices and tart cranberries make this sangria a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table.

Christmas Parties

Its festive colors and cozy flavors make it a hit at holiday gatherings, where it pairs beautifully with everything from hors d’oeuvres to desserts.

New Year’s Celebrations

Add a splash of sparkling water or champagne to turn this sangria into the ultimate New Year’s toast.

Cozy Winter Nights

Serve this sangria in front of a roaring fire for a relaxing, wintertime treat.

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Occasions to Serve It

• Friendsgiving and Holiday Dinners
• Winter Weddings or Engagement Parties
• Festive Cocktail Hours
• Christmas Morning Brunches
• Seasonal Potlucks

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Conclusion

The Spiced Cranberry Sangria is more than just a cocktail—it’s a celebration of everything we love about the holidays. With its vibrant colors, warming spices, and rich flavors, this drink brings people together in the most festive way.

Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening with loved ones, this sangria is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, mix up a batch, and toast to the joy of the season. Cheers to warmth, flavor, and holiday cheer in every sip!