Introduction to Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of festive gatherings filled with laughter and joy. One drink that never fails to impress is my Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria. It’s bright, refreshing, and oh-so-easy to whip up! Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or simply want to treat yourself after a long day, this sangria is the perfect solution. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will elevate your holiday celebrations!
Why You’ll Love This Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria
This Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 15 minutes of prep time. The vibrant flavors of cranberry and citrus dance together, creating a refreshing sip that’s perfect for any festive occasion. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the party without the stress of last-minute mixing. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to crafting your Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Red Wine: A good quality red wine forms the base of this sangria. Choose a fruity variety for the best flavor.
- Cranberry Juice: This adds a tart sweetness that complements the wine beautifully. Opt for 100% juice for a healthier choice.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the drink and adds a zesty kick.
- Brandy: While optional, a splash of brandy enhances the depth of flavor. It’s like a warm hug in a glass!
- Simple Syrup or Honey: Sweeten to your taste! Adjust the sweetness based on your preference and the tartness of the cranberry juice.
- Orange and Lemon: Sliced citrus adds a pop of color and freshness. They infuse the sangria with their vibrant flavors.
- Apple: Chopped apples provide a crisp texture and a hint of sweetness. Use your favorite variety!
- Fresh Cranberries: These not only look festive but also add a burst of tartness. Plus, they float beautifully in the drink.
- Cinnamon Sticks: A couple of cinnamon sticks bring warmth and spice, making this drink feel cozy.
- Sparkling Water or Lemon-Lime Soda: Add this just before serving for a refreshing fizz. It lightens the drink and makes it extra festive.
- Ice: Essential for serving, ice keeps your sangria chilled and refreshing.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy mixing!
How to Make Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria
Prepare the Fruit
Start by slicing the orange and lemon into thin rounds. This adds a beautiful visual appeal to your Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria. Next, chop the apple into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the fresh cranberries to ensure they’re clean and ready to shine in your drink!
Build the Sangria
In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the red wine, cranberry juice, orange juice, and brandy if you’re using it. Stir in the simple syrup or honey to sweeten. Then, add the prepared fruit and cinnamon sticks. Gently stir to mix everything together, letting those flavors mingle!
Chill
Now, it’s time to chill! Refrigerate your sangria for at least three hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to infuse beautifully, creating a refreshing drink that’s bursting with holiday spirit.
Serve
When you’re ready to serve, add sparkling water or lemon-lime soda for that bubbly freshness. Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice. For an extra festive touch, add more fruit and a cinnamon stick as a garnish. Cheers to a delightful holiday drink!
Tips for Success
- Use a fruity red wine for the best flavor. It makes all the difference!
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking. Taste as you go!
- Let the sangria chill overnight for deeper flavors.
- Experiment with different fruits like berries or peaches for a twist.
- For a non-alcoholic version, swap the wine and brandy for more juice or soda.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pitcher or Punch Bowl: Essential for mixing your sangria. A mason jar works too for smaller batches!
- Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing and chopping your fruits. A simple paring knife will do the trick.
- Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring liquids, but you can eyeball it if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Stirring Spoon: A long spoon helps mix everything well. A wooden spoon adds a rustic touch!
Variations
- Berry Blast: Add a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Spiced Sangria: Incorporate star anise or cloves along with the cinnamon sticks for an extra layer of warmth.
- White Wine Version: Swap the red wine for a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a lighter sangria.
- Herbal Infusion: Add fresh mint or basil leaves for a refreshing herbal note that complements the citrus.
- Non-Alcoholic Delight: Use sparkling grape juice or a mix of fruit juices for a festive mocktail that everyone can enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria with a cheese platter for a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Serve alongside festive appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or shrimp cocktail for a perfect match.
- For a beautiful presentation, use clear glasses to showcase the vibrant colors of the sangria.
- Garnish with extra fruit slices and fresh herbs for an eye-catching touch.
FAQs about Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria
Can I make Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just prepare it a day in advance and chill it in the fridge. Add the sparkling water just before serving for that refreshing fizz!
What type of red wine should I use?
For the best results, choose a fruity red wine like Merlot or Zinfandel. These varieties complement the cranberry and citrus flavors perfectly, making your Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria truly delightful!
Can I customize the fruits in my sangria?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite fruits. Berries, peaches, or even pineapple can add a unique twist to your Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria. Get creative and make it your own!
Is there a non-alcoholic version of this sangria?
Yes! Simply omit the wine and brandy, and replace them with additional juice or sparkling water. You’ll still enjoy a festive and delicious drink without the alcohol!
How long can I store leftover sangria?
If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to three days. However, the fruit may start to lose its freshness, so it’s best enjoyed within a day or two!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria is more than just mixing ingredients; it’s about crafting memories. Each sip brings a burst of festive cheer, making it the perfect companion for holiday gatherings. I love watching friends and family enjoy this vibrant drink, their faces lighting up with delight. It’s a simple yet elegant way to elevate any occasion. So, whether you’re toasting to new beginnings or celebrating cherished traditions, this sangria will surely add a splash of joy to your festivities. Cheers to making every moment special with a glass in hand!
Print
Holiday Cranberry Citrus Sangria: Your Festive Refreshment!
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A bright and refreshing holiday sangria made with red wine, cranberry juice, citrus slices, crisp apples, warming cinnamon sticks, and plenty of fresh cranberries.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup brandy (optional but recommended)
- ½ cup simple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 apple, chopped
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1–2 cups sparkling water or lemon-lime soda (added before serving)
- Ice
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Slice the orange and lemon into thin rounds. Chop the apple into bite-size pieces. Rinse the fresh cranberries.
- Build the Sangria: In a large pitcher or punch bowl, add red wine, cranberry juice, orange juice, and brandy. Stir in the simple syrup or honey. Add the prepared fruit and cinnamon sticks. Stir gently to combine.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, and up to overnight to allow flavors to infuse and deepen.
- Serve: Right before serving, add sparkling water or soda for bubbly freshness. Pour into glasses filled with ice. Add extra fruit and a cinnamon stick for garnish if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of simple syrup or honey.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the wine and brandy and use additional juice or soda.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
