Four ingredients, ten minutes of prep, and you've got the drink everyone's going to ask you to make again. This caramel apple sangria is what happens when a crisp white wine, sparkling apple cider, buttery caramel syrup, and freshly chopped Honeycrisp apples spend a few hours getting to know each other in the fridge. It's the fall-and-winter pitcher drink we bring out for Thanksgiving Eve, holiday open houses, and the kind of Friday night that deserves a little occasion.
A good, crisp white is the backbone — pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc, or a dry riesling all work beautifully. The apples matter too: you want a variety that stays crunchy in the pitcher rather than turning to mush. Honeycrisp is our top pick for exactly this reason, but CandyCrisp is another wonderful pick if you like a sweeter apple. Order fresh from our orchard by clicking here.
Ingredients (serves 6–8)
- 1 bottle (750 mL) crisp white wine, chilled
- 1 bottle (about 25 oz) sparkling apple cider, chilled
- 1/4 cup caramel syrup (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 Honeycrisp apples, cored and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes
- Optional: 1 cinnamon stick per glass for garnish
- Optional: 1 oz caramel vodka per glass for a stronger version
Directions
- Chill the wine and sparkling cider thoroughly — at least 4 hours in the fridge.
- In a large pitcher, combine the wine, sparkling cider, and caramel syrup. Whisk gently to dissolve.
- Stir in the chopped apples.
- Chill for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours so the apples soak up the caramel and everything gets acquainted.
- Serve in wine glasses over ice, spooning apple pieces into each glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick if you like.
Tips & Variations
- Homemade caramel. If you want to take it up a notch, whisk your own quick caramel with brown sugar, butter, and a splash of cream.
- Boozier. A shot of caramel vodka, spiced rum, or brandy per glass turns this into a serious cocktail.
- Rim the glasses with cinnamon sugar for a fancy touch.
- Non-alcoholic version. Sub the wine for a bottle of chilled apple juice + a splash of lemon juice. Just as beautiful.
- Make ahead. Combine wine, cider, and caramel up to a day ahead. Add the apples the morning of.
Made this? Send us a photo — we'll send you a coupon for 20% off your next order. Comment below or email [email protected]. Enjoy!
