This cranberry sangria is a fun and fruity drink, perfect for parties or cozy nights in. It combines juicy cranberries, sweet wine, and zesty citrus for a refreshing twist!
I love how easy it is to make! Just mix everything together and let it chill for a bit. It’s a great way to impress guests without much fuss. Cheers to that! 🍷
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are great choices for a robust flavor. If you prefer a sweeter sangria, try using a fruity red blend or a Grenache instead. White wine lovers can swap in a Moscato or Riesling for a lighter version.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add that lovely tartness, but if they’re out of season, you can use frozen cranberries instead. Just don’t thaw them before adding! They’ll add a nice chill to your drink.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau and Triple Sec are popular options, but feel free to use any orange-flavored liqueur you have on hand. If avoiding alcohol, a splash of orange juice can keep things bright and fruity.
Brandy: This deepens the drink’s flavor, but feel free to substitute with another spirit like vodka or even omit it if you prefer a lighter drink.
Sugar or Honey: Sweetness is optional! Taste as you go and add according to your preference. Maple syrup could also work well if you want a different twist.
How Do You Mix Perfectly Balanced Sangria?
Creating a well-balanced sangria is all about blending flavors and letting them mingle. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine the main liquid ingredients first (wine, liqueur, brandy, juice) in a pitcher.
- Add fruit slices for natural sweetness and flavor infusion. The longer you let it chill, the better the taste!
- Consider your sweetness level; start with 1-2 tablespoons of sugar to avoid it being too sweet.
- When ready to serve, add sparkling water for fizz. This lightens up the drink and makes each sip refreshing.
Hanging a few slices of citrus on the rim of your glasses can also impress your guests while adding extra flavor!
How to Make Delicious Cranberry Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup cranberry juice
Optional Sweetener:
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
For Serving:
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda (for topping off)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sangria requires about 15 minutes of prep time and needs to chill in the fridge for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight if you have the time. After cooling, it’s served up in just a few minutes. An easy and delightful party drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large pitcher, pour in the entire bottle of red wine. Then add the orange liqueur, brandy, and cranberry juice. Give it a gentle stir to combine the flavors together.
2. Add the Fruits:
Throw in the fresh cranberries and the sliced orange, lemon, and lime. These fruits not only enhance the flavor but also make the sangria look beautiful!
3. Sweeten It Up (If Desired):
If you like your sangria on the sweeter side, now’s the time to add sugar or honey. Stir it in carefully and taste it. You can always add more if you’d like it sweeter.
4. Chill Out:
Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for those flavors to really come together!
5. Serve with Style:
When it’s party time, take the pitcher out of the fridge. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled sangria over the ice, leaving a bit of space at the top.
6. Add Some Fizz:
Top off each glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda. This adds a lovely fizz that makes the drink even more refreshing!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off each glass with a few extra cranberries and a sprig of fresh rosemary for that festive touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!
This cranberry sangria is a festive treat, perfect for gatherings and celebrations. The refreshing combination of fruits and wine is sure to impress your friends and family. Cheers! 🍷
Can I Use White Wine Instead of Red Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter version, you can use white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. This will create a refreshing twist on the classic sangria!
How Do I Store Leftover Sangria?
Leftover sangria can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just remember to add fresh sparkling water or club soda when serving again, as it may lose its fizz.
Can I Make This Sangria Alcohol-Free?
Yes! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the wine, brandy, and orange liqueur, and replace them with a combination of cranberry juice, grape juice, and sparkling water. Add the fruits for a flavorful mocktail!
How Can I Customize the Flavor?
Feel free to mix up the fruits according to your preference! Adding berries, pineapple, or peaches can create a unique flavor profile. Just adjust the sweetness to match your fruit choices!
