Table of Contents: Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria
Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria
Introduction
Picture this: a crisp autumn evening, the aroma of cinnamon and apples filling the air, and a pitcher of Spiced Apple Cider Sangria waiting to be poured. This Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria is the ultimate holiday cocktail—warm, festive, and bursting with seasonal flavors. It’s the perfect blend of sweet apple cider, bold red wine, and cozy spices that will have your guests asking for seconds (and the recipe!).
Did you know sangria dates back to ancient Rome? While traditional sangria is a summer staple, this Thanksgiving twist brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table. It’s easy to make, requires minimal prep, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you loved my Mulled Wine Recipe, you’ll adore this spiced-up version with apple cider’s cozy sweetness.
Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want a festive drink to sip by the fire, this Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria is your new go-to. Let’s dive in!
What is Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria?
Ever wondered why sangria is such a hit at parties? It’s simple: it’s delicious, customizable, and always a conversation starter. But what makes this Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria special? Well, imagine your favorite autumn flavors—apple cider, cinnamon, cloves, and juicy apples—all mingling in a glass with rich red wine. It’s like fall in liquid form!
Why call it a Thanksgiving sangria? Because it’s the ultimate holiday drink! Just like the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” the way to a memorable Thanksgiving is through a pitcher of this sangria. It’s sweet, spiced, and just boozy enough to keep the holiday spirits high.
So, grab your favorite wine, some fresh apples, and let’s make a batch that’ll have everyone toasting to you!
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria
1. Festive & Flavorful – This sangria is packed with warm spices, crisp apples, and rich red wine, making it the ultimate Thanksgiving cocktail. Every sip tastes like the holidays!
2. Budget-Friendly – Skip the expensive bar drinks! Making sangria at home is way cheaper than buying cocktails out, and you can customize it to your taste.
3. Easy to Customize – Prefer white wine? Swap it in! Want it sweeter? Add honey. This recipe is super flexible, so you can make it your own.
If you loved my Cucumber Martini Recipe, you’ll flip for this autumnal twist. Ready to mix up a batch? Let’s go!
How to Make Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria

Quick Overview
This 5-minute sangria is as easy as mixing, chilling, and serving! The hardest part? Waiting for the flavors to meld (but trust me, it’s worth it).
Key Ingredients
– 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine (Cabernet or Merlot work great)
– 2 cups apple cider (spiced or regular)
– ½ cup brandy or bourbon (optional but recommended)
– 1 apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 1 tsp whole cloves
– 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the liquids – In a large pitcher, combine red wine, apple cider, and brandy (if using).
2. Sweeten it up – Stir in maple syrup or honey.
3. Add the fruit & spices – Drop in apple slices, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
4. Chill & infuse – Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better!).
5. Serve & enjoy – Pour over ice, garnish with extra cinnamon sticks, and cheers!
What to Serve With Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria
This sangria pairs perfectly with all your Thanksgiving favorites! Try it alongside roast turkey, cranberry sauce, or buttery mashed potatoes. For appetizers, serve with baked brie, spiced nuts, or pumpkin hummus. Want dessert? A slice of apple pie or pecan pie makes the ultimate pairing.
Top Tips for Perfecting Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria
– Let it sit – The longer it chills, the better the flavors blend.
– Adjust sweetness – Taste before serving and add more honey if needed.
– Swap the wine – Try white wine or rosé for a lighter version.
Storing and Reheating Tips
– Fridge – Store in an airtight pitcher for up to 3 days.
– Freezing – Not recommended (the texture changes).
– Serving leftovers – Give it a stir before pouring.
People Also Ask

Can I make this sangria non-alcoholic?
Absolutely! Swap the wine for grape juice and skip the brandy. The spices and apple cider still make it delicious.
What’s the best wine for sangria?
A dry red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works best, but Pinot Noir is great for a lighter option.
How far in advance can I make it?
Up to 24 hours ahead—the flavors get even better!
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria is the ultimate holiday cocktail—easy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a feast or just craving a festive drink, this sangria delivers.
Final tip: Double the batch. Trust me, it’ll disappear fast!
Now, go grab your ingredients and make this show-stopping sangria for your Thanksgiving table. Cheers to good food, great drinks, and even better company! 🍷✨
Loved this recipe? Try my Spicy Margarita Recipe next!
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Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A festive and refreshing Thanksgiving Apple Cider Sangria made with crisp apples, seasonal spices, and a splash of white wine for the perfect holiday drink.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup brandy
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup club soda or sparkling water
- Ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, apple cider, and brandy.
- Add sliced apples, orange, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks.
- Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Just before serving, add the club soda or sparkling water and stir gently.
- Serve over ice and garnish with apple or orange slices.
Notes
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the wine and brandy with extra apple cider and a splash of ginger ale. Best served chilled on Thanksgiving Day!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Thanksgiving sangria, apple cider cocktail, holiday drink, festive punch