Cranberry Sangria is a fruity and refreshing drink that’s perfect for gatherings. It blends sweet cranberries, zesty citrus fruits, and a splash of red wine, making it a colorful party favorite!
This drink is so easy to make! I love tossing in whatever fruits I have on hand. Plus, it’s always a hit; who can resist a glass of this cheerful mix on a sunny day? 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: I recommend a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for a full-bodied flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try Pinot Noir or even a white sangria base with white wine. Always choose a wine you enjoy drinking!
Fresh Cranberries: These are great for a tart bite. If fresh cranberries are hard to find, dried cranberries can work too, though they’re sweeter. Just remember they won’t provide that vibrant color and texture.
Oranges & Limes: Fresh citrus is key for a zesty kick. If you don’t have oranges, substituting with mandarins or even lemons can keep the citrus flavor alive. Use whichever you have on hand for a personal touch!
Sweetener: Adjust the sweetness with simple syrup or honey. If you want to keep it sugar-free, try a sugar substitute like stevia or even just let the fruits add their natural sweetness.
Brandy or Orange Liqueur: This adds depth to the sangria. If you’d like to skip it, you can just focus on the wine and juices. In a pinch, a splash of vodka can work too!
How Do I Make Sure the Sangria Is Flavorful?
Letting the sangria sit in the fridge is the most important step. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all your ingredients in a pitcher.
- Cover it tightly and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the better it gets!
- When serving, remember to include some of the marinated fruit in each glass. It not only looks pretty but also keeps the flavor coming!
For an extra twist, feel free to add seasonal fruits like apples or pears. It’s a fun way to customize this drink for your taste or the occasion. Enjoy your Cranberry Sangria! Cheers!
Cranberry Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 lime, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup brandy or orange liqueur (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sangria takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll want to let it chill for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better! So, set it up in the morning or early afternoon and have it ready for your evening gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Liquids:
In a large pitcher or bowl, pour in the red wine, orange juice, and cranberry juice. If you’re using brandy or orange liqueur, add it now too! This is where the sangria starts taking shape.
2. Add the Fruits:
Next, toss in the fresh cranberries, thinly sliced orange, and lime. The colors will be beautiful, and the fruit will soak up all that lovely wine!
3. Sweeten It Up:
Now, stir in your choice of sweetener—simple syrup or honey. Taste it and see if you want it a little sweeter, and adjust as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
4. Chill the Sangria:
It’s time to cover your pitcher and pop it in the fridge! Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This way, all the flavors will meld together perfectly.
5. Serve the Sangria:
When you’re ready to enjoy, fill glasses with ice. Spoon some of the marinated fruit into each glass for that extra burst of flavor. Then, pour the chilled sangria over the ice.
6. Add the Finishing Touch:
Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh rosemary. Not only does it look pretty, but it also adds a lovely aroma as you sip!
7. Enjoy!
Now, sit back and enjoy your refreshing, fruity Cranberry Sangria—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Sangria?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match fruits based on what you have. Apples, pears, or berries are great alternatives. Just remember to keep the citrus for that zesty kick!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sangria?
Leftover sangria can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, the longer it sits, the fruit may become mushy and the flavors will continue to blend. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Sangria Non-Alcoholic?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the red wine with sparkling grape juice or a mix of cranberry juice and club soda. This way, you’ll still have that bubbly, refreshing sangria without the alcohol.
What Type of Red Wine Works Best?
A fruity red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works well for this sangria. However, feel free to use any red wine that you enjoy drinking! Just avoid overly tannic wines, which may overpower the drink.
