Apple Cider Sangria Recipe – Easy Cozy Fall Drink with Cinnamon

Introduction

Let me tell you, the scent of spiced apple cider mingling with crisp white wine and a touch of cinnamon is pure autumn magic. The first time I made this cozy apple cider sangria with cinnamon, I remember standing in my kitchen, watching the steam rise from the cider as I stirred in the fragrant cinnamon sticks—it felt like the season itself had walked right in and decided to stay awhile. It was one of those moments where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’ve stumbled upon something truly special.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to serve warm cider with cinnamon sticks after raking piles of leaves. That nostalgic memory inspired me to create this sangria—something that blends her comforting cider with a grown-up twist. The result? A drink that feels like a warm hug but still sparkles with sophistication. My family couldn’t stop sneaking sips before dinner (and I honestly couldn’t blame them). The aroma alone could make anyone linger in the kitchen a little longer.

This apple cider sangria recipe is perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or even those quiet evenings when you want to curl up by the fire. I’ve tested it more times than I can count (in the name of research, of course), and it’s become a staple for family get-togethers and cozy nights in. If you’re looking for a drink that captures the heart of autumn, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why this cozy apple cider sangria with cinnamon has become one of my go-to fall beverages. It’s simple, crowd-pleasing, and brings that nostalgic warmth you crave once the leaves start turning.

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 10 minutes. Perfect for spontaneous gatherings or last-minute fall cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—just apple cider, wine, and a few seasonal fruits and spices you probably already have.
• Perfect for Fall Parties: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a bonfire night, or an outdoor picnic, this sangria fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves it—from cider fans to wine enthusiasts. Even those who don’t usually drink sangria find themselves refilling their glasses.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The balance of sweet apple cider, crisp apples, and warming cinnamon creates that “close your eyes after the first sip” kind of satisfaction.

What sets this recipe apart is the way the cinnamon infuses the cider—it’s not overpowering, but gently warms each sip. I’ve tried other versions that relied too heavily on sugar or spice, but this one has that mellow depth that feels just right. It’s the kind of drink that makes any occasion feel special without any stress. Comforting yet elegant, simple yet memorable—this apple cider sangria is the definition of cozy indulgence.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This cozy apple cider sangria uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver big autumn flavor and a touch of seasonal cheer. You’ll find everything right in your pantry or local market.

• Apple cider (4 cups / 950 ml) – the star of the show! Look for fresh, unfiltered cider for maximum flavor.
• White wine (1 bottle / 750 ml) – a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works best; it balances the sweetness nicely.
• Brandy (½ cup / 120 ml) – adds depth and a smooth finish.
• Apples (2 medium, sliced thin) – Honeycrisp or Gala are ideal for sweetness and crunch.
• Oranges (1 large, sliced) – brings a bright citrus note that lifts the drink.
• Cinnamon sticks (2–3 whole) – for that warm, spiced aroma that makes this drink unforgettable.
• Maple syrup (2 tablespoons / 30 ml) – optional but lovely for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Club soda (1 cup / 240 ml) – for a little sparkle right before serving.
• Ice – plenty for chilling and serving.

Optional additions: Add pear slices for a gentle floral note, or use sparkling apple cider instead of club soda for extra fizz. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the wine and brandy, and replace them with more cider and a splash of orange juice.

I recommend using high-quality apple cider—local farm varieties tend to have the richest flavor. If you prefer a drier sangria, use less maple syrup or choose a less sweet cider. You can even try cinnamon-infused wine for a deeper spice profile. No matter what, the ingredients come together beautifully for a drink that tastes like fall in a glass.

Equipment Needed

• Large pitcher or beverage dispenser – at least 2 liters capacity to hold everything comfortably.
• Cutting board and sharp knife – for slicing apples and oranges neatly.
• Measuring cups – to get the cider and brandy proportions just right.
• Mixing spoon – for stirring gently without bruising the fruit.
• Wine glasses or mason jars – for serving with a rustic touch.

If you don’t have a big pitcher, a large mixing bowl works fine—just strain before serving. I’ve even used a clean glass storage jar once in a pinch (worked like a charm). For cleanup, rinse your cinnamon sticks and reuse them for simmering in cider next time. Budget-friendly and practical!

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the fruit: Slice your apples and oranges into thin rounds. Leave the peel on for extra color and flavor. If you’re adding pears, slice them thin too. This should take about 5 minutes.
2. Combine liquids: In a large pitcher, pour in the apple cider (4 cups / 950 ml), white wine (1 bottle / 750 ml), and brandy (½ cup / 120 ml). Stir gently to blend.
3. Add the fruit: Toss in your sliced apples and oranges. Use a spoon to submerge them slightly so they can start infusing the liquid. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before chilling.
4. Add the cinnamon and sweetener: Drop in 2–3 cinnamon sticks and drizzle in maple syrup (2 tablespoons / 30 ml). Stir again. The aroma will start to bloom—sweet, spicy, and warm.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours (or overnight for a stronger flavor). The longer it sits, the deeper the infusion of fruit and spice.
6. Add sparkle: Just before serving, pour in club soda (1 cup / 240 ml) for that fizzy finish. Stir gently so you don’t lose the bubbles.
7. Serve: Fill glasses with ice, ladle in the sangria, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice. Sip slowly and enjoy!

Note: If your sangria tastes too sweet, add a squeeze of lemon juice. If it’s too tart, a bit more maple syrup will balance it out. The cider and wine should complement each other—not compete.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Through trial and error (and a few overly strong batches), I’ve learned some tricks for getting this apple cider sangria just right:

• Choose your wine wisely: A dry white works best. Sweet wines can make the sangria cloying when paired with cider.
• Don’t over-stir: Gentle mixing preserves the fruit’s shape and the cider’s clarity.
• Chill time matters: Two hours minimum, but overnight is perfection. The cinnamon and fruit truly shine after resting.
• Serve cold, not icy: Too much ice waters down the flavor. Chill the pitcher instead.
• Reuse your fruit: The cider-soaked apples are delicious spooned over vanilla ice cream!

I once made the mistake of using spiced wine—turned out way too strong. Lesson learned: balance the flavors. Let each ingredient speak softly instead of shouting. Also, try using a mix of red and green apples for color contrast—it makes the pitcher look stunning on any table.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about sangria is how flexible it is. You can twist this cozy apple cider sangria with cinnamon to fit your taste or dietary needs.

• Non-alcoholic version: Replace wine and brandy with sparkling apple juice and a splash of orange juice. Still festive and flavorful!
• Red wine variation: Swap the white wine for a light red (like Pinot Noir). It’ll bring a richer, deeper hue and slightly bolder flavor.
• Spiced pear sangria: Add sliced pears and use pear cider instead of apple. It’s perfect for late fall gatherings.
• Gluten-free and vegan: Ensure your cider is pure apple juice (no additives), and use maple syrup instead of honey.

My personal favorite twist? Add a splash of ginger liqueur for a subtle kick—it gives the sangria a pleasantly warm finish that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. You can also try cranberries for a festive holiday version!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your cozy apple cider sangria chilled but not icy cold. I like setting out a rustic pitcher surrounded by fresh apples and cinnamon sticks for decoration—it looks straight out of a fall magazine spread. Pair it with cheese platters, roasted nuts, or apple pie for the ultimate autumn moment.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruit will continue to infuse flavor, though the club soda fizz will fade. If you plan to store it, add the soda right before serving each time. You can even freeze the sangria into ice cubes for future drinks—it’s a fun way to avoid waste.

Reheat leftovers gently with extra cider for a warm version—it turns into a mulled sangria that’s perfect on chilly nights.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This apple cider sangria with cinnamon is surprisingly light. A typical serving (about 8 oz / 240 ml) contains roughly 150–180 calories, depending on the wine and sweetener used. It’s naturally rich in antioxidants from apples and oranges, and cinnamon adds anti-inflammatory benefits.

Using fresh cider instead of bottled juices keeps the sugar lower and the flavor fresher. Plus, this recipe is easily adaptable for vegan or gluten-free diets. It’s a feel-good, comforting drink that doesn’t weigh you down—perfect for enjoying more than one glass without guilt.

Conclusion

There’s just something magical about sipping a glass of cozy apple cider sangria with cinnamon while watching the leaves fall outside. It’s the kind of drink that turns ordinary moments into warm memories. Whether you serve it at a party or savor it solo, this recipe delivers that perfect mix of comfort and charm.

Try adjusting the sweetness or fruit to fit your taste—it’s forgiving, fun, and always delicious. Personally, I love that it reminds me of family gatherings and crisp autumn evenings. So grab your pitcher, slice those apples, and make a batch today. I guarantee this one will become a fall tradition in your home.

And hey—don’t forget to share your version in the comments. I’d love to hear how you make it your own!

FAQs

Can I make apple cider sangria ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after resting for a few hours or overnight. Just add club soda right before serving.

What kind of wine works best?

A dry white like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc keeps the flavor balanced and crisp.

Can I use hard apple cider instead of regular cider?

Absolutely! It adds a fun sparkle and extra kick. Just adjust the wine or brandy slightly to balance it.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

Up to 2 days. After that, the fruit starts to soften and the flavors can get muddled.

Can I serve it warm?

You sure can! Warm it gently in a saucepan and serve in mugs for a cozy winter twist.

Apple Cider Sangria with Cinnamon

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• Author: David
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A cozy and refreshing fall drink that blends apple cider, white wine, brandy, and cinnamon for a perfectly spiced sangria. Ideal for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving, or relaxing evenings by the fire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups apple cider (950 ml)
• 1 bottle (750 ml) white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1/2 cup brandy (120 ml)
• 2 medium apples, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Gala)
• 1 large orange, thinly sliced
• 2–3 whole cinnamon sticks
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (30 ml, optional)
• 1 cup club soda (240 ml)
• Ice, for serving

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Instructions

1. Slice apples and oranges into thin rounds, leaving the peel on for color and flavor.
2. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, white wine, and brandy. Stir gently to mix.
3. Add sliced apples and oranges to the pitcher and submerge them slightly. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
4. Add cinnamon sticks and maple syrup, then stir again.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
6. Just before serving, pour in club soda and stir gently to preserve the fizz.
7. Serve over ice in glasses, garnished with a cinnamon stick or apple slice.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, replace wine and brandy with sparkling apple juice and orange juice. Chill for at least 2 hours for best flavor. Add club soda just before serving to maintain fizz. Adjust sweetness with maple syrup or lemon juice as needed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 glass (about 8 oz
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 15
• Sodium: 10
• Carbohydrates: 18
• Fiber: 1

Keywords: apple cider sangria, fall drink, cinnamon sangria, autumn cocktail, Thanksgiving drink, white wine sangria