This refreshing cranberry sangria is perfect for any gathering. It mixes tart cranberries, fruity wine, and zesty citrus, making a colorful and cheerful drink!
When I make this, I love adding extra fruit for even more flavor. Plus, you’ll impress your friends with how pretty it looks on the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works best. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, try using non-alcoholic red wine or replace it with grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a crisp tartness. If you can’t find them, use dried cranberries or frozen ones. Just remember to soak them in water for a bit to rehydrate before using!
Orange Liqueur: Triple Sec and Cointreau are popular choices, but feel free to swap it with a splash of orange juice for a non-alcoholic version. You can also skip this entirely if you want a simpler sangria.
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice is ideal, but if sweetness is what you prefer, go for lightly sweetened juice. Apple juice can also be used to change the flavor profile.
Simple Syrup: You can make your own by mixing equal parts sugar and water until dissolved. If you want to cut down on sugar, honey or agave syrup can work, too.
How Do I Create the Best Flavor in Salsa Sangria?
Letting the sangria sit is crucial for flavor. This process allows the fruits to infuse their freshness into the wine. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Mix all ingredients in a pitcher and make sure everything is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better to ensure all flavors mix well.
- Add ice just before serving to keep it chilled without watering it down too fast.
Trying different fruits or adding spices like cinnamon can also bring new flavors to your sangria. Enjoy your festive drink!
How to Make Cranberry Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sangria:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 1 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional for garnish and aroma)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sangria takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time to let the flavors develop. If you can, let it chill for 4 hours or overnight for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large pitcher or bowl, pour in the dry red wine, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. Stir everything together well so the flavors can start to meld.
2. Add the Fruits:
Now it’s time to add the fun! Toss in the fresh cranberries along with the thinly sliced lemon and orange. This will give your sangria that fresh, fruity flavor.
3. Chill, Chill, Chill:
Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, but if you can manage it, letting it sit overnight works wonders!
4. Serve with Ice:
When you’re ready to serve, add some ice cubes to the pitcher to keep the sangria nice and cool. Pour the sangria into glasses, making sure each glass gets some of the delicious fruit.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh rosemary if you’re feeling fancy! It adds a beautiful aroma and looks festive. Serve the sangria right away, sit back, and enjoy your refreshing drink!
This cranberry sangria is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it a delightful choice for any gathering! Cheers!
Can I Use Different Types of Wine for This Sangria?
Absolutely! While dry red wine is traditional, you can experiment with other varieties like white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) for a lighter version. Just remember that the flavor of the wine will influence the overall taste of your sangria!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sangria?
Leftover sangria can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh! If you notice the fruit becoming overly mushy, feel free to strain them out before serving.
Can I Make This Sangria Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the red wine with a fruity grape juice or non-alcoholic wine and skip the orange liqueur. You can still use cranberry juice and fresh fruits for a deliciously refreshing drink!
What Other Fruits Can I Add to the Sangria?
You can add a variety of fruits to enhance the flavor! Some great options include sliced strawberries, peaches, or apples. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness if you use sweeter fruits!