Savoring a refreshing Thanksgiving Sangria is a delightful way to celebrate the season. This festive drink combines the rich flavors of autumn fruits with the warmth of spices, creating a bubbly and vibrant beverage that will charm your guests. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home, this sangria brings a twist to traditional holiday drinks.

Why Make This Recipe

Celebrating Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, family, and good food. Adding a unique drink to the table can enhance the festive atmosphere. Thanksgiving Sangria not only provides an aesthetically pleasing centerpiece with its colorful fruits but also embodies the essence of fall flavors. With its mix of apples, oranges, and pears alongside warm spices, it’s a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving feast. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the holiday without spending too much time in the kitchen.

How to Make Thanksgiving Sangria

Creating a delicious Thanksgiving Sangria is simple and requires minimal effort. It starts with a combination of red wine, apple cider, and fruit juices, infused with seasonal spices. Follow the steps below to whip up this festive drink.

Ingredients

5 cinnamon sticks
3 honeycrisp apples (sliced or cut into fall shapes)
2 oranges (sliced)
2 cups pears (sliced or cut into fall shapes)
1 750mL bottle of red wine
1 cup apple cider
1 cup 100% cranberry juice
1/2 cup apple brandy (or orange liqueur)
Ginger beer or soda water, for topping
Cinnamon sugar rim: 1/4 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Directions

Pour the red wine, apple cider, cranberry juice, and apple brandy (or triple sec) into a large pitcher. Stir quickly to combine the ingredients.
If desired, cut fun fall shapes out of the apples and pears. Slice the oranges and add all the sliced fruits to the pitcher along with the cinnamon sticks and star anise.
Cover the pitcher and chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Just before serving, prepare the cinnamon sugar rim. In a shallow dish, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
To rim the glasses, run an orange wedge around the edge of each wine glass, then dip the rims into the cinnamon sugar mixture for a sweet finish.
Fill each glass with ice, then pour in the chilled sangria. Top it off with ginger beer or soda water for a bubbly touch. Finally, garnish each glass with a few pieces of the wine-soaked fruit and a cinnamon stick for a festive look.

Pro Tips for Success with Thanksgiving Sangria

Quality Ingredients Matter: Using a good red wine will elevate your sangria. Opt for a light-bodied wine like Merlot or Grenache, which pairs well with the fruity flavors.
Chill Time: The longer you chill your sangria, the better the flavors will combine. Aim for at least a 4-hour chill for optimal taste.
Fruit Variations: Feel free to experiment with seasonal fruit based on what’s available, such as pomegranates or figs, which can add unique flavors and colors.
Non-Alcoholic Version: For a family-friendly twist, replace the alcohol with sparkling apple cider and use a fruity herbal tea instead of wine.
Prepare Ahead of Time: You can prepare the sangria a day in advance. Just add the ginger beer right before serving to keep it fizzy.
Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or honey to taste.

Flavor Variations for Thanksgiving Sangria

Spiced Pear Sangria: Substitute the apple cider with pear cider for a different twist and focus on pear flavors.
Berry Blast: Adding a cup of strawberries or raspberries gives a tart punch that complements the sweetness of other fruits.
Citrus Burst: Include additional citrus like grapefruit for an extra zesty kick that enhances freshness.
Autumn Spice Sangria: Enhance the spiciness by adding a few whole cloves or a star anise to the mix.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate some toasted almonds or pecans before serving for an interesting texture and flavor addition.

Serving Suggestions for Thanksgiving Sangria

Thanksgiving Sangria is versatile for serving alongside various dishes.

Pair it with turkey and stuffing for a delightful contrast of flavors.
It also goes well with cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar or creamy brie, which complement the drink’s sweetness.
For dessert, this sangria is a perfect match for pumpkin pie or apple crisp, enhancing the seasonal vibe.
Serve in attractive glassware to allow the vibrant colors of the fruit to shine through while impressing your guests.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Thanksgiving Sangria

While it’s best to enjoy Thanksgiving Sangria fresh, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor will continue to develop, although the fruit may not be as crisp. Keep the ginger beer separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain its fizz.

Freezing sangria is not recommended, as the fruit will break down once thawed, compromising texture and flavor. However, you can freeze the fruit in ice cubes beforehand for a chill without diluting the drink.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|———-|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 5mg |

FAQs About Thanksgiving Sangria

Can I use a different type of wine?

Absolutely! While red wine is traditional for sangria, white wine or rosé can provide light and refreshing variations. Just adjust the other ingredients to complement the type of wine you choose.

How long can I keep the sangria in the fridge?

Thanksgiving Sangria can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days. However, the fruits may become mushy after the first day, so it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! For a non-alcoholic Thanksgiving Sangria, simply substitute wine with sparkling grape juice or apple cider. You can use the same fruits and spices to keep the flavors intact while making an exciting drink for everyone.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

To add more spice to your Thanksgiving Sangria, try incorporating some ginger slices or a hint of nutmeg along with the existing cinnamon sticks. This will enhance the warm flavors and complement the overall autumn theme.

What other fruits work well in sangria?

Sangria is very forgiving and allows for a wide variety of fruits. Seasonal picks like pomegranates, cranberries, and even citrus fruits like grapefruits can add unique flavors and visual appeal to your drink.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Sangria is a delightful way to celebrate the season with family and friends. With its combination of warm spices, rich fruits, and the vibrant effervescence of ginger beer, it embodies the heart of Thanksgiving. Remember, this recipe is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Cheers to a festive celebration that brings everyone together!