• Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Recipes
  • Cookbooks
  • Work With Me
  • Contact

CPA: Certified Pastry Aficionado

Cranberry Apple Sangria

drinks· Fall Flavors· Holiday Favorites
November 27, 2023

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Cranberry Apple Sangria – Tempranillo wine mixed with brandy, apple cider, cranberry juice, and ginger ale and served with diced apples and cranberries

photo of two glasses of sangria with the pitcher in the background

I looooove sangria. One of my favorite restaurants is a tapas bar with the most incredible red sangria. If I’m not careful. I can finish off the pitcher all by myself!

I have made many different types of sangria (with many of those recipes here on the blog) but, to my surprise, I have never made a red sangria at home. Well, that all changes today! This Cranberry Apple Sangria is made with the classic Tempranillo wine, which is what the Spanish use in their classic red sangria. What makes this sangria stand out from the classic is the spiced apple cider, cranberry juice, and ginger ale.

Here is my Cranberry Apple Sangria!

cranberry apple sangria in short glasses with a rosemary garnish
close up of cranberry apple sangria to show all the fruit
overhead shot of cranberry apple sangria in 3 glasses

Tips & Tricks

  1. Any apples work fine. You can use any apples that you prefer for dicing and adding to the sangria. I liked the color of the Granny Smith apples but they aren’t a must if you prefer another variety.
  2. Unsweetened cranberry juice. This sangria is already sweet enough so we don’t want to make it sickly sweet by also using cranberry juice cocktail. Make sure you buy the unsweetened cranberry juice!
  3. Add the ginger ale last. Since the ginger ale is carbonated, it should not be stirred, since that can make it flat. Before serving, add in the ginger ale as the final step.
  4. Tempranillo wine. This wine is the classic red wine used in sangria. It makes all the difference! Luckily, grocery stores have started carrying it so you shouldn’t have trouble finding it.
rosemary and cranberries garnish with the picture of cranberry apple sangria
wide horizontal shot of cranberry apple sangria in glasses
Print Recipe

Cranberry Apple Sangria

Prep Time10 minutes mins
Total Time10 minutes mins
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • ½ cup brandy liquor
  • 1 750 mL bottle Tempranillo rioja wine
  • 1½ cups spiced apple cider
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cranberry juice
  • 8 ounces ginger ale
  • 2 small apples diced
  • ¾ cup fresh cranberries

Instructions

  • Add sugar and brandy to a pitcher. Stir to dissolved the sugar. Add bottle of Tempranillo, apple cider, and unsweetened cranberry juice to mixture. Stir together. Add diced apples and cranberries. Finish by adding ginger ale.
  • I like enjoying this sangria without ice, but you can serve over ice, if you prefer.

Pin for later:

pin of cranberry apple sangria

More recipes you’ll love:

Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria
styled shot of Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria
Sangria Sorbet
two glasses of sangria sorbet with oranges and blueberries in the glass on top of a cloth napkin, shot from a side angle
Slow Cooker Mulled Wine
a cinnamon stick being dipped into a mug of mulled wine with another mug of mulled wine and a glass dish of mulled spices in the background, shot from a side angle

Share this:

  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window)

31 Comments

« Chicken a la King
Nutella Cream Pie »

Comments

  1. Irris says

    November 5, 2025 at 11:54 pm

    What a brilliant recipe! It was a huge golf hit with my family. Thanks for the excellent and insightful information.

    Reply
  2. MATLAB expert says

    September 24, 2025 at 9:48 am

    Struggling with MATLAB tasks? A MATLAB expert provides step-by-step help for projects, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and timely submission.

    Reply
  3. labubu-adventure says

    August 10, 2025 at 3:36 am

    This Cranberry Apple Sangria sounds amazing!

    Reply
  4. sassa status check says

    July 23, 2025 at 1:53 am

    Each paragraph unfolds with such grace. You’ve structured this article like a quiet journey, full of insight and care for the one reading it.

    Reply
  5. Color Changer says

    July 22, 2025 at 10:11 pm

    I can’t wait to try this sangria recipe! It sounds refreshing and festive. As a side note, if you have any images of your drink, there’s an awesome free online tool I use to change colors in images that you might find handy—perfect for enhancing your photos: an awesome free online tool I use to change colors in images.

    Reply
  6. Pantone Colors Chart says

    July 22, 2025 at 10:07 pm

    This recipe sounds like the perfect blend for a cozy gathering! I can already imagine the lovely aroma filling the room. By the way, if you’re ever curious about color palettes for your party decor, there’s a cool Pantone Colors Chart I stumbled upon that helps find just the right shades—definitely worth a look: a cool Pantone Colors Chart I stumbled upon.

    Reply
  7. Syloon says

    July 22, 2025 at 9:57 pm

    Wow, this Cranberry Apple Sangria sounds absolutely delightful! I love how you combined spiced apple cider and cranberry juice; that must give it such a fantastic flavor. Just a little tip: if you’re looking for some cute stationery to jot down your recipes, I found a great site that really specializes in that kind of stuff—check it out here: a great site that really specializes in that kind of stuff.

    Reply
  8. nadir says

    February 11, 2025 at 4:58 am

    For an extra layer of warmth, consider adding star anise pods and whole cloves during the chilling process. Remember to remove these spices before serving to prevent the flavors from becoming too intense. granny

    Reply
  9. Name Generator says

    October 21, 2024 at 3:59 am

    Yes, you make a valid point. I have been using an AI Name Generator recently, and it works quite well. You might want to give it a try. https://aithename.com

    Reply
  10. 2048cupcakes says

    August 20, 2024 at 2:46 am

    The use of Tempranillo wine adds an authentic touch, staying true to the Spanish roots of sangria, while the addition of ginger ale gives it a light, fizzy finish. The emphasis on using unsweetened cranberry juice to balance the sweetness shows attention to detail, ensuring a well-rounded flavor. This recipe seems like a must-try for sangria lovers looking to celebrate the holidays with a flavorful, seasonal twist.

    Reply
  11. five nights at freddy's says

    July 2, 2024 at 6:25 am

    I cannot thank you enough for your care and knowledge. Thank you for being an excellent source of inspiration.

    Reply
  12. granny games says

    June 22, 2024 at 4:00 am

    This was a big hit on Thanksgiving. I just made a batch for my husband and me because it’s so good!

    Reply
  13. that's not my neighbor says

    June 21, 2024 at 10:18 pm

    With its promising potential for expansion and further development, That’s Not My Neighbor stands out as a refreshingly creative addition to the gaming world, offering both enjoyment and mental stimulation in equal measure.

    Reply
    • Lows Adventures 2 says

      November 4, 2024 at 8:53 am

      Join Low on an exhilarating journey through 31 unique levels in Lows Adventures 2, a captivating platform game where collecting coins and conquering bosses are just the beginning of your adventure!

      Reply
  14. that's not my neighbor says

    April 25, 2024 at 2:33 am

    Your Cranberry Apple Sangria recipe looks delightful!

    Reply
  15. Hayley says

    December 4, 2023 at 4:31 am

    Perfect festive drink, refreshing and delicious. I’m sure my guests and family will love it. Thanks for the recipe.

    Reply
  16. Veronika says

    December 4, 2023 at 2:18 am

    What a fun Christmas cocktail! I’ll definitely be making this for our holiday parties, I’ve never made a festive sangria!

    Reply
  17. Katie Crenshaw says

    December 3, 2023 at 7:07 pm

    This cranberry apple sangria is so festive for December. It has a lovely flavor. It is perfect for the holidays.

    Reply
  18. Lori | The Kitchen Whisperer says

    December 3, 2023 at 3:51 pm

    Such a beautiful and festive drink! It’s perfect for the season! I’m hosting Christmas brunch for the ladies this year and this needs to be on the menu! This is a definite keeper!

    Reply
  19. Erin says

    December 3, 2023 at 3:24 pm

    This sangria was so tasty and easy to make! I’m going to make it again for Christmas. Thanks!

    Reply
  20. Tristin says

    December 3, 2023 at 12:09 pm

    Wow, this drink is really stunning! Can’t wait to surprise my guests with it on Christmas.

    Reply
  21. Jacqueline Debono says

    December 3, 2023 at 6:56 am

    This sangria is definitely going to be what I give guests this Christmas. I tried out a small batch and wow, so good!

    Reply
  22. Tammy says

    December 1, 2023 at 4:50 pm

    What a gorgeous holiday drink! This sounds so refreshing…I love the sweet/tart combo! Definitely need to make these for the holiday parties!

    Reply
  23. Sharon says

    November 28, 2023 at 8:30 pm

    What a beautiful and festive drink, I will need to buy some more cranberries ASAP. Thanks for sharing your recipe.

    Reply
  24. Anjali says

    November 28, 2023 at 8:14 pm

    This is such a fun and festive drink! I made it when we had our family over for Thanksgiving and everyone loved it!

    Reply
  25. Sara Welch says

    November 28, 2023 at 8:10 pm

    This was such a bold and refreshing cocktail that does not disappoint! Fun, festive and delicious; easily, a new favorite drink!

    Reply
  26. Chenee says

    November 28, 2023 at 7:29 pm

    Thanks so much for sharing! This will be perfect for Christmas!

    Reply
  27. Colleen says

    November 28, 2023 at 2:12 pm

    This is a beautiful, festive and cozy sangria. We are hosting a neighborhood holiday gathering this weekend and I am definitely looking forward to making a batch of this. Thank you!

    Reply
  28. Alexandra says

    November 27, 2023 at 8:11 pm

    Delicious and refreshing, and the perfect drink to prepare for a crowd. We will definitely be serving this at our upcoming Christmas parties. Cheers!

    Reply
  29. Yu says

    November 27, 2023 at 7:40 pm

    I love sangria, too! This recipe is truly delicious; I especially love the “fruity taste.” Now, I can make it myself without the need to go to a restaurant again. Thanks for this recipe.

    Reply
    • sana says

      February 11, 2025 at 4:57 am

      Cranberry Apple Sangria is a delightful and festive beverage that combines the crisp flavors of apples and the tartness of cranberries, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or cozy fall evenings. This refreshing drink not only pleases the palate but also adds a vibrant touch to any occasion. septle

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Hi, my name is Sharon. I’m an accountant by day, risk-taking baker and food enthusiast by night. Come join me as I share my favorite recipes and test out new ones along the way!

fall flavors

zoomed in shot of Sage & Browned Butter Hasselback Sweet Potatoes, shot from a side angle

Sage & Browned Butter Hasselback Sweet Potatoes

styled shot of of Salted Caramel Ice Cream in a glass dish with an ice cream scooper with sugar cones and a full ice cream cone next to it and a jar and spoon of caramel sauce

Salted Caramel Ice Cream

portion of sweet potato gratin being removed from casserole dish, revealing gooey center

Sweet Potato Gratin

warm banana bread with a couple bites removed sitting on a plate with two scoops on butter pecan ice cream stacked on top and caramelized bananas over the top and a spoon on the side

Banana Bread Sundae

styled shot of Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria

Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria

a slice of chocolate pecan pie on a plate with another plate of pie in the background, shot from a side angle

Chocolate Pecan Pie

ORDER MY NEW COOKBOOK NOW!

photo of entertaining made easy cookbook available for preorder now

Breakfast
Appetizers
Entrees
Salads
Sides
Drinks
Desserts
Roundups
Holidays

Browse by Date

  • Home
  • About Me
  • Contact Me
  • Privacy Policy

holiday favorite

close up of a mint chocolate fudge cookie surrounded by chocolate chips

Mint Chocolate Fudge Cookies

Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate styled with a spoon being dipped into it

Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate

two copper mugs filled with holiday mule drinks and a pitcher in the background

Holiday Mule

whole nutella cream pie shot from an overhead angle

Nutella Cream Pie

close up of raspberries & cream profiterole sitting on a white plate

Raspberries & Cream Profiteroles

 

These aren't your average buttermilk pancakes! Mad These aren't your average buttermilk pancakes! Made with ground pistachios, honey, and a hint of almond extract, these fluffy pancakes are rich, nutty, and absolutely DELICIOUS. 

What makes these pancakes SPECIAL:
✨ Ground pistachios for nutty flavor (no crunch!)
✨ Honey instead of sugar (pairs perfectly with pistachios)
✨ Almond extract brings out the pistachio flavor
✨ Super fluffy texture (the secret: let the batter rest!)
✨ Unique & impressive breakfast

The ground pistachios give these pancakes an incredible flavor and that gorgeous green tint without adding any crunch to your pancakes. The almond extract enhances the pistachio flavor and creates this rich, nutty taste that's SO good! And using honey instead of regular sugar? Game changer!

Top with butter, maple syrup, and extra crushed pistachios for the ultimate presentation!

Pro tips for FLUFFY pancakes:
🔸 Let the batter rest 15-30 minutes (don't skip this!)
🔸 Only add batter to a HOT pan
🔸 Look for bubbles on top before flipping
🔸 Use buttermilk for that classic fluffy texture

Trust me, once you try these pistachio pancakes, you'll want to make them every weekend! The flavor is incredible and they look so impressive stacked up on a plate.

Want the full recipe? Comment PANCAKES below and I'll send it straight to your DMs! 

#PistachioPancakes #PancakeRecipe #BreakfastRecipe #ButtermilkPancakes #HomemadePancakes #PistachioRecipes #WeekendBrunch #BrunchIdeas #FathersDay #FathersDayBreakfast #BreakfastGoals #FluffyPancakes #BreakfastFromScratch #BrunchRecipe #PancakeLove #PistachioLovers #SpecialBreakfast #WeekendBreakfast #HomemadeBreakfast #BreakfastIdeas #FoodBlogger #BrunchGoals #NuttyFlavors #FancyBreakfast #PancakeStack #MorningGoals #BreakfastTime #Foodie #DeliciousBreakfast
This Sweet Potato Gratin is about to steal the sho This Sweet Potato Gratin is about to steal the show at your holiday table! 

Thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked in a maple-spiced cream sauce and topped with Parmesan cheese. It's the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and honestly? It's EASIER than making mashed potatoes!

Why you'll LOVE this recipe:
✨ Sweet & savory flavor combo (maple + Parmesan!)
✨ Impressive presentation but simple to make
✨ Easier AND faster than mashed potatoes
✨ Creamy inside, crispy golden top
✨ Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday feast

Here's what makes this gratin special: the sweet potatoes are cooked in a cream sauce with maple sugar (or maple syrup), cinnamon, and nutmeg, then topped with grated Parmesan before baking. 

The result is a gorgeous layered side dish that's creamy, rich, and absolutely delicious! The texture is what sets this apart from traditional sweet potato casserole - those thinly sliced layers give you the perfect bite every time. And that crispy, golden Parmesan top? Chef's kiss 

Pro tips:
🔸 Use a mandolin slicer for perfectly even slices (be careful!)
🔸 Use GRATED Parmesan, not shredded (it melts better!)
🔸 Let it cool 15-20 minutes before serving for best texture
🔸 Can swap maple sugar for maple syrup

This is going straight on my Thanksgiving menu, and I think you should add it to yours too! It's fancy enough to impress but easy enough to not stress about. Win-win! 

Want the full recipe? https://www.certifiedpastryaficionado.com/sweet-potato-gratin/
I combined two breakfast classics into one AMAZING I combined two breakfast classics into one AMAZING treat - fluffy homemade cinnamon rolls filled with sliced bananas, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon. 

These Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls are the breakfast dream you never knew you needed!

Here's what makes them INCREDIBLE:
✨ Fluffy, gooey homemade cinnamon rolls
✨ Fresh banana slices + crunchy walnuts in every bite
✨ Cream cheese frosting with optional walnut topping
✨ Brown sugar cinnamon filling

The secret? I replaced the egg in the dough with mashed banana, which adds SO much flavor without affecting the texture. 

The rolls come out just as fluffy and soft as traditional cinnamon rolls, but with that amazing banana bread taste we all love!

Yes, homemade cinnamon rolls take time (about 3 hours total with rising), but they are SO WORTH IT. 

The keys to success:
🔸 Use fresh yeast (make sure it foams!)
🔸 Knead the dough for the full 5 minutes
🔸 Don't rush the proofing time - fluffy rolls need time to rise!

These are perfect for weekend brunch, special occasions, or any time you want to seriously impress! The combo of bananas, walnuts, and cinnamon is absolutely divine.

Pro tip: You can prep these the night before! Let them do the second rise in the fridge overnight, then bake fresh in the morning. Your house will smell AMAZING! 

Want the full recipe? https://www.certifiedpastryaficionado.com/banana-nut-cinnamon-rolls/
This Pumpkin Crumb Cake is everything you love abo This Pumpkin Crumb Cake is everything you love about coffeehouse crumb cake, but with cozy pumpkin spice vibes! Dense, moist pumpkin cake topped with the most incredible crispy cinnamon sugar crumbs. It's the perfect fall treat!

What makes this crumb cake SO good:
✨ Whole can of pumpkin puree for maximum flavor
✨ Pumpkin pie spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
✨ Super moist, slightly dense texture (in the best way!)
✨ Crispy, buttery cinnamon crumb topping
✨ Perfect with your morning coffee or afternoon tea

This is one of my all-time favorite coffeehouse treats, and the pumpkin version is PERFECT for fall! The cake is incredibly moist thanks to the pumpkin puree, and those crispy crumbs on top add the most satisfying texture contrast. It's divine!

You can serve it warm or at room temperature, and it stays fresh for days (if it lasts that long!). 

Perfect for:
🍂 Fall breakfast or brunch
🎃 Thanksgiving dessert
☕ Weekend coffee date at home
🍁 Cozy autumn afternoons

Pro tip: Make the crumb topping first and chill it in the fridge while you make the batter. This helps the crumbs stay crispy during baking!

Want the full recipe? https://www.certifiedpastryaficionado.com/pumpkin-crumb-cake/
All your favorite breakfast foods in ONE dish - ba All your favorite breakfast foods in ONE dish - bacon, sausage, eggs, cheese, and CRISPY tater tots on top! This Cheesy Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is about to become your family's new favorite weekend breakfast.

Here's what makes it AMAZING:
✨ Feeds 8-10 people (perfect for gatherings!)
✨ Crispy golden tater tots on top (not mushy!)
✨ Packed with bacon AND sausage
✨ Sharp cheddar makes it extra cheesy
✨ Easy to customize with your favorites

The tater tots get perfectly crispy and golden on top while everything underneath becomes this incredible cheesy, savory heaven. My husband (who is OBSESSED with breakfast food) said this was one of the best breakfast dishes I've ever made. 

Pro tips:
🔸 Keep tots frozen until you add them to the casserole
🔸 Shred your own cheese for the best melt
🔸 Hot sausage adds flavor without being too spicy
🔸 Let it rest 10 minutes before serving

This is PERFECT for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, Mother's Day, or literally any weekend when you want to treat your family to something special! Plus, the leftovers reheat beautifully for easy breakfasts all week.

Want the full recipe? Comment CASSEROLE below and I'll send it to your DMs!

What do you usually make for family breakfasts? Let me know! 👇

#TaterTotCasserole #BreakfastCasserole #TaterTots #BreakfastRecipe #BrunchIdeas #EasyBreakfast #FamilyBreakfast #BreakfastForDinner #CasseroleRecipe #CheeseyCasserole #WeekendBrunch #BreakfastBake #ComfortFood #HolidayBrunch #BreakfastIdeas #EasyBrunch #BaconAndEggs #SausageCasserole #FamilyFavorite #BrunchRecipe #EasyRecipes #HomeCooking #YummyBreakfast

Copyright © 2025 Certified Pastry Aficionado · Web Design by Viva la Violet

loading Cancel
Post was not sent - check your email addresses!
Email check failed, please try again
Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email.