Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria – 7 Cozy Reasons It’s the Fall Cocktail You Need

Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria is hands-down my favorite fix when cozy weather hits. Ever find yourself with way too many apples, a splash of bourbon left in the bottle, and zero desire for a complicated recipe? That’s usually me, staring at the kitchen counter on a chilly Friday night. Lucky for folks like us, this drink’s darn easy and totally delivers big autumn vibes. Oh and hey, if you like easy crowd-pleasers, you should check out my take on easy mulled cider too.

Why You’ll Love Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria

First off, it’s massively forgiving. Forget to buy oranges? Toss in pears or cranberries. This sangria always turns out delicious. Also, it’s totally make-ahead so you get to skip hostess stress. People keep talking about it like it’s some five-star restaurant cocktail. They ask for the “secret” (spoiler alert: it’s the bourbon). Let’s be honest most sangrias taste just okay, but the combo of apple cider, good bourbon, crisp fruit, and a shotgun splash of bubbles really warms you up. Everyone at your table gets that “ahh” feeling, you know?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Alright, here’s what you gotta snag before mixing up Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria:

• 1 bottle white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio both work)
• 1.5 cups apple cider (literally any kind)
• 1/2 cup bourbon (your fave nothing fancy needed)
• 2 apples, cored and sliced (leave the skins they look pretty)
• 1 orange, sliced into wheels
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1/2 cup club soda or ginger beer (I prefer ginger beer for extra spice)
• Optional: a cinnamon stick or 2, whole cloves, and a handful of cranberries

And… if you want it sweeter, throw in a splash of maple syrup or honey. Up to you!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how you make it. Zero stress required.

Start by grabbing the biggest pitcher you own. Dump in the sliced apples, oranges, and lemon first. Next, pour in your apple cider and white wine. Now, here comes the fun part add your bourbon (don’t skimp). Stir it up nice and good.

If you want that spiced flavor (you do), toss in your cinnamon sticks and cloves. Let it sit in the fridge for at least two hours, but overnight’s even better. Before serving, add a splash of club soda or ginger beer to get it extra fizzy. Toss in some cranberries for holiday vibes and boom, you’re ready to pour.

Pro Tips & Sweet Variations

Here’s the thing. This Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria is basically a choose-your-own adventure drink.

If you want something less boozy, cut back on the bourbon. For a seriously sweet sip, add a bit more maple syrup or try brown sugar for a caramel twist (sounds odd, tastes amazing). Forgot ginger beer? Use sparkling apple juice. Heck, swap in pears if apples look sad. One time, I even sliced in a ripe peach… pretty wild, but nobody complained.

Try experimenting with different wines. Rosé is super fun and makes it blushing-pink. If you love spice, add a pinch of fresh ginger or a dash of nutmeg. Make it yours. That’s why I keep coming back to this recipe.

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
White Wine	1 bottle	Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio preferred
Apple Cider	1.5 cups	Sweetness varies by brand
Bourbon	1/2 cup	Use your favorite brand
Apples	2, sliced	Cored, skins left on
Orange	1, sliced	Sliced into wheels
Lemon	1, sliced	Adds brightness
Club Soda or Ginger Beer	1/2 cup	Ginger beer adds spice
Cinnamon Sticks (optional)	2	For extra warmth

Perfect Pairings & Serving Ideas

This cocktail’s a real crowd-pleaser, so I’ve figured out a few easy serving moves:

• Serve chilled with a cinnamon stick garnish (looks so fancy, but it’s easy).
• Pair with sharp cheddar, warm soft pretzels, or salty roasted nuts for snacks.
• Use mason jars for a casual party, or fancy up the glasses with sugared rims.

It’s perfect for board game night, Friendsgiving, or Sunday tailgates. Not fussy, but always disappears fast honestly, make a double batch if you’ve got thirsty folks coming over.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips for Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria

So, can you make it ahead? Heck yes. Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria really gets better after hanging out in the fridge overnight. The flavors get all cozy together.

Just mix everything except the bubbles (club soda or ginger beer) and fruit you want to stay crisp. Right before serving, toss in the bubbly stuff and maybe a few fresh apple slices. It’ll keep a day or two, but after that the fruit gets mushy. Leftovers store just fine just strain old fruit and pour over fresh ice.

FAQs About Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria

Nutrition Notes

I’m not a dietician, but you’re looking at calories mostly from the apple cider and wine. Bourbon adds a little more, but hey it’s a treat, right? Get lots of vitamin C from the apples and citrus slices. The sugar level depends on your personal choices. If you’re watching the carbs, skip the extra sweeteners and keep your glass reasonable-sized. This drink won’t win any health awards, but it beats store-bought cocktails full of junk.

Sip, Relax, and Repeat

Alright, so now you know basically everything about my go-to Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria. It’s simple, flexible, makes you look like a hosting legend, and tastes like fall in a glass. My best advice? Try Bourbon Apple Cider Sangria Cocktail |easy fall sangria for even more inspiration. Or, if you want to get creative, check out homemade apple cider for an extra punch. I’m telling you, once you make it, you’ll crave it every time the weather cools off. Gather your friends, fill up a pitcher, and let the cozy times roll. Cheers!