This refreshing cranberry sangria is a fun mix of tart cranberries, sweet fruits, and a splash of wine. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
I love to sip on this bright drink while lounging with friends. It’s like a party in a glass and super easy to whip up, too—just mix, chill, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Wine: Choose a bold red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for depth of flavor. If you prefer white, a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc can work too. Just remember, the flavor will shift a bit!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide a vibrant tartness. If they’re out of season, frozen cranberries are a great substitute. They’ll work just as well in flavor and look pretty in the glass too!
Orange Liqueur: I like using Cointreau for its smoothness, but Triple Sec works just as well. For a non-alcoholic version, swap it with extra orange juice and a splash of soda for fizz.
Brandy: This adds warmth and depth. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip it or use an extra splash of orange juice for a bit of sweetness.
How Can I Make Sure My Sangria Tastes Amazing?
The key to delicious sangria is letting it chill. Refrigerating it for at least 2 hours lets the flavors blend beautifully. If you have time, overnight is even better!
- Start by mixing the liquids: wine, liqueur, and juices.
- Add in your fruit. Think of it as a fruit salad with a wine twist!
- Sweeten to taste. Adjust the sugar based on your preference and the tartness of the cranberries.
- Before serving, add ice to keep it chilled and then top with club soda for that refreshing fizz. It really lightens up the drink!
Garnishing adds that finishing touch—rosemary not only looks lovely but gives an aromatic boost. Enjoy your fruity creation!
Cranberry Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sangria:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, sliced (plus extra wedges for garnish)
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup cranberry juice
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 cups club soda or sparkling water (optional, for a lighter sangria)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sangria takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time. Then, it needs to chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but if you can let it sit overnight, that’s even better! Total time is approximately 2 to 24 hours, depending on how long you intend to chill it.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large pitcher, pour in the red wine, orange liqueur, brandy, cranberry juice, and sugar (or simple syrup). Stir everything together until the sugar has fully dissolved. This mixture is the heart of your sangria!
2. Add the Fruits:
Now, toss in the fresh cranberries, orange slices, and lime slices right into the pitcher. This adds a burst of color and flavor to your sangria!
3. Chill & Infuse:
Cover the pitcher with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Letting it chill overnight will make the flavors even more delightful as they meld together.
4. Serve It Fresh:
When you’re ready to serve, you can either add ice cubes directly into the pitcher or pour the sangria over glasses filled with ice. This keeps each glass refreshing and cool!
5. Add Some Fizz:
If you like a bit of sparkle, top each glass with a splash of club soda or sparkling water for a light, bubbly finish.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
For a beautiful presentation, add extra lime wedges and a sprig of fresh rosemary as garnish. Not only does it look amazing, but it also adds a wonderful scent.
7. Savor Your Sangria:
Serve the cranberry sangria chilled and sip away with friends and family! It’s perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a relaxing evening.
This sangria has a lovely deep red color, a balance of tart and sweet flavors, and the aromatic rosemary garnish enhances its charm. Cheers!
Can I Use White Wine Instead of Red Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter taste, try using a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sangria?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar or simple syrup. If you’d like a less sweet option, start with 1 tablespoon of sugar and taste as you go, adding more if needed.
Can I Make This Sangria a Day Ahead?
Yes, making it a day ahead is actually a great idea! Allowing it to chill overnight helps the flavors meld beautifully, making for a more aromatic and delicious drink.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sangria?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve added soda, it’s best to drink it within a day as the bubbles will go flat. Otherwise, enjoy it cold the next day!
