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Cozy Spiked Apple Cider Sangria: Best Easy Fall Cocktail

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A warm, aromatic fall cocktail made by gently simmering apple cider with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and fresh fruit, then adding bourbon for a cozy, comforting drink perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 gallon (about 4 liters) Apple Cider (fresh-pressed or high-quality)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) Water
  • 3 large Cinnamon Sticks
  • 1 teaspoon Whole Cloves
  • 2 pods Star Anise
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Peppercorns
  • Orange Peel from 1 large orange
  • 2 medium Apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), sliced thin
  • 1 medium Pear, sliced thin
  • 1 Orange, sliced into rounds
  • 1.5 to 2 cups (350–475 ml) Bourbon or Whiskey
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) Brandy (Optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash apples, pears, and orange. Slice them thinly and remove large cores. Set aside.
  2. In a large stockpot, pour in the apple cider and water. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, peppercorns, and orange peel. Stir gently.
  3. Place the pot over medium-low heat and bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil). This should take 10-15 minutes.
  4. Once simmering, add the sliced apples, pears, and orange rounds. Reduce heat to low and let steep for 10-15 minutes until fruit softens slightly.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in the bourbon and brandy (if using). The residual heat will warm the alcohol without evaporating it.
  7. Let the sangria sit for at least 30 minutes to allow spices to infuse.
  8. Ladle into mugs, ensuring each serving includes fruit and a cinnamon stick. Garnish with fresh apple slice if desired.

Notes

Do not boil the alcohol after adding it, as it will evaporate. If the cider is too sweet, add a splash of water or lemon juice. For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and brandy. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.

Nutrition

Keywords: fall cocktail, spiked apple cider, sangria, bourbon recipe, warm drinks, autumn recipes, cozy drinks, holiday punch

Find it online: https://lindabake.com/cozy-spiked-apple-cider-sangria-best-easy-fall-cocktail/