Festive Cranberry Green Apple Sangria Recipe

If you’re looking for a drink that instantly screams holiday cheer while keeping things refreshingly light and bubbly, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Festive Cranberry Green Apple Sangria Recipe is my go-to for every Christmas gathering – it’s sweet, tart, and just jazzy enough with that rosemary kick. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved staple in my kitchen during the holidays.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how simple and straightforward this Festive Cranberry Green Apple Sangria Recipe is when it comes to ingredients. The freshness of the fruit combined with the sweetness of Moscato and the crisp sparkle of apple cider really makes this drink pop. When you shop, look for firm green apples and fresh cranberries to get those bursts of flavor and freshness.

• Green Apples: Choose crisp Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the wine.
• Fresh Cranberries: Their bright color and tartness make the drink festive and lively — plus, they’re great for garnish.
• Granulated Sugar: Rolling cranberries in sugar adds sparkle and a touch of sweetness to the garnish, making each sip a little party.
• Rosemary: Adds an herbal, piney aroma that enhances the holiday vibe and looks gorgeous in the glass.
• Moscato Wine: A sweet, fruity wine that’s perfect for sangria, balancing the tart fruit flavors with gentle sweetness.
• Sparkling Apple Cider: Brings bubbles and a crisp freshness that lightens up the whole drink beautifully.

Variations

One of the things I adore about this Festive Cranberry Green Apple Sangria Recipe is how easily it lends itself to little tweaks and twists. If you want to make it your own, I encourage you to experiment a bit—there’s no right or wrong here. Whether you want it a little less sweet or add a new herb, have fun with it!

• Using Different Wine: I’ve swapped Moscato for a dry Riesling or even a light Pinot Grigio—each brings a slightly different flair that’s still lovely.
• Herb Swaps: Rosemary is my favorite, but thyme or even a little fresh mint can add a fresh punch if you want to mix things up.
• Fruit Add-ins: Sometimes I toss in a splash of orange slices or pomegranate seeds—both add a fun burst of color and festive flavor.

How to Make Festive Cranberry Green Apple Sangria Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Fruit for Maximum Freshness

Start by chopping your green apples into small, bite-sized pieces. I like to set aside some pieces to use as garnish later because they look so pretty atop the glass. Rinse the cranberries under cold water, then toss a handful into sugar—this adds a sparkling effect and sweetness when you drop them on top. Add all other chopped apples and fresh cranberries into your pitcher.

Step 2: Muddle to Release Those Juices

Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently crush some of the fruit in the bottom of the pitcher. This releases the natural juices and flavors, creating a juicy base that lifts the whole sangria. Don’t overdo it though—just a few presses is enough to get things started.

Step 3: Add Your Bubbly Mix and Garnish

Pour the bottle of Moscato in, followed by the sparkling apple cider. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. Then, add a bunch of fresh rosemary sprigs right on top; don’t stir those in, as they’ll float beautifully and infuse the sangria with a piney aroma. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but an hour is even better if you have time.

Step 4: Serve with Styled Glassware

Before pouring, rim your champagne flutes or preferred glasses with sugar—it adds an extra festive touch that guests appreciate. Add a splash of sangria, then garnish each glass with a couple of the sugared cranberries, a few apple pieces, and a sprig of rosemary. The presentation always gets compliments!

How to Serve Festive Cranberry Green Apple Sangria Recipe

Garnishes

I always go for that classic look: a sprig of rosemary, a couple of juicy apple chunks, and a handful of sugared cranberries perched on the rim or floating on top. It’s simple but instantly elevates your glass to something special. Plus, guests can nibble on these tasty garnishes as they sip!

Side Dishes

Since this sangria is more on the fruity and fresh side, I love pairing it with light appetizers like soft cheeses on crackers, roasted nuts, or even a charcuterie board loaded with savory meats and olives. It’s the perfect balance between sweet and salty to keep everyone happily sipping and snacking.

Creative Ways to Present

If I’m hosting a bigger party, sometimes I serve this sangria in a large glass dispenser with a spigot—it looks gorgeous and makes self-serve a breeze. Pouring into tall, clear glasses lets the vibrant colors of the apples and cranberries shine through, adding to the festive mood. A little holiday-themed straw or a cinnamon stick makes for a fun, seasonal touch too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always keep sangria leftovers in a tightly sealed pitcher or bottle in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so if anything, I find it even better the next day! Just give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezing

I usually don’t freeze sangria because of the bubbles, but if you want to chill it quickly, popping the pitcher in the freezer for 20–30 minutes works great—just don’t forget it, or it’ll freeze solid!

Reheating

This sangria is best served cold, so reheating isn’t really recommended. If you like a warm holiday drink, I’d suggest making a separate batch of mulled wine instead — but for this sangria, cold is where it’s at.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Festive Cranberry Green Apple Sangria Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s the perfect balance of holiday spirit and simple, fresh ingredients that anyone can make at home. I absolutely love how it brings my family together around the table, sparkling glasses raised, smiles everywhere. Give it a try for your next holiday party or cozy night in—you’ll be so glad you did!

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