Pumpkin Spice Sangria Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic beverage with this Pumpkin Spice Sangria recipe! As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like a seasonal drink to elevate your autumn gatherings. This unique sangria blends the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with the refreshing qualities of a traditional wine-based cocktail, making it an ideal choice for cozy evenings or festive celebrations.

Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or simply looking for the best sangria recipe to impress your friends, this fall-inspired drink is sure to steal the show. It combines seasonal fruits, a hint of spice, and a splash of spirits to create a harmonious balance that screams autumn in every sip. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the season and less time in the kitchen.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to create this stunning Thanksgiving sangria. From the ingredients to the preparation steps, you’ll find all the tips and tricks to make this a staple at your fall events. Let’s dive into the world of fall cocktails and craft a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick glance at the key details for making this Pumpkin Spice Sangria:

• Cuisine: American with Autumnal Influences
• Category: Beverage / Cocktail
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (No cooking required)
• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Servings: 6-8

What You’ll Need

To create the perfect Pumpkin Spice Sangria, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why they matter:

• White Wine: Acts as the base of the sangria, providing a light and fruity foundation that pairs beautifully with fall flavors.
• Apple Cider: Adds a sweet and tangy depth, enhancing the autumnal vibe of the drink.
• Pumpkin Spice Syrup: Infuses the signature warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, tying the drink to the season.
• Brandy or Spiced Rum: Brings a subtle warmth and richness, elevating the complexity of the cocktail.
• Fresh Fruits (Apples, Oranges, Pears): Contribute natural sweetness and a pop of color, making the sangria visually stunning.
• Cinnamon Sticks and Cloves: Enhance the spiced aroma, giving each sip a cozy, festive feel.
• Club Soda or Ginger Ale: Adds a refreshing fizz just before serving, balancing the richer flavors.

INGREDIENTS

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful Pumpkin Spice Sangria:

• – 1 bottle (750 ml) white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• – 2 cups apple cider (preferably unfiltered for richer flavor)
• – 1/4 cup pumpkin spice syrup (store-bought or homemade)
• – 1/2 cup brandy or spiced rum
• – 1 apple, thinly sliced
• – 1 orange, thinly sliced
• – 1 pear, thinly sliced
• – 2-3 cinnamon sticks
• – 4-5 whole cloves
• – 1-2 cups club soda or ginger ale (optional, for fizz)
• – Ice, for serving

PREPARATION

Follow these simple steps to create a batch of Pumpkin Spice Sangria that will wow your guests:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the bottle of white wine, 2 cups of apple cider, 1/4 cup pumpkin spice syrup, and 1/2 cup brandy or spiced rum. Stir well to ensure the flavors meld together.
2. Add the sliced apple, orange, and pear to the pitcher. Toss in the 2-3 cinnamon sticks and 4-5 cloves for an extra spiced kick.
3. Cover the pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
4. Before serving, give the mixture a gentle stir. If desired, add 1-2 cups of club soda or ginger ale for a fizzy finish.
5. Serve over ice in glasses, making sure to include some of the fruit slices and spices in each serving for presentation.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings) for this Pumpkin Spice Sangria. Note that values may vary depending on specific ingredients used:

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugar: 14g
• Protein: 0g
• Alcohol Content: Approximately 8-10% ABV per serving

Why Choose Pumpkin Spice for Sangria?

Opting for pumpkin spice in a sangria recipe might sound unconventional, but it’s a game-changer for fall gatherings. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves typically associated with pumpkin spice complements the fruity and crisp notes of white wine and apple cider. It transforms a summery drink into a cozy, seasonal treat that feels just right for chilly evenings or holiday parties.

Pairing Suggestions for Fall Events

This Pumpkin Spice Sangria pairs wonderfully with a variety of autumn dishes. Serve it alongside hearty appetizers like cheese boards with sharp cheddar and figs, or main dishes such as roasted turkey or glazed ham for a Thanksgiving feast. For dessert, consider pumpkin cheesecake bars or other fall desserts easy to make, as the sangria’s spices will enhance the sweet, creamy flavors.

Customizing Your Sangria

One of the best things about sangria is its versatility. For a sweeter take, swap white wine for a fruitier rosé or add a splash of honey. If you prefer a bolder kick, increase the brandy or use a darker rum. You can also experiment with different fruits like cranberries or pomegranate seeds to add a tart contrast to this easy pumpkin dessert-inspired drink.

Tips for Batch Preparation

Planning to serve this at a large gathering? Double or triple the recipe and prepare it in a punch bowl for easy serving. Make the base mix a day ahead to save time, but add the fizz (club soda or ginger ale) just before guests arrive to keep it fresh. This approach makes it one of the easiest sangria recipes for entertaining.

Non-Alcoholic Version

For those looking to enjoy the flavors without the alcohol, substitute the white wine and brandy with sparkling apple juice or grape juice. The result is a family-friendly mocktail that still captures the essence of Thanksgiving sangria with all the festive charm of pumpkin spice.

Storing and Serving Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store the sangria in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Remove the fruit slices if possible to prevent over-soaking, and give it a quick stir before serving again. It’s a great way to enjoy this pumpkin treat over a couple of cozy nights.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I Use Red Wine Instead of White Wine?

Absolutely! While white wine keeps this Pumpkin Spice Sangria light and refreshing, red wine like a Pinot Noir or Merlot can add a deeper, richer flavor. It pairs especially well with the spices and apple cider, creating a more robust fall cocktail perfect for colder nights.

How Long Should I Let the Sangria Sit Before Serving?

For the best flavor, let the sangria chill for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator. If you have the time, leaving it overnight allows the fruits and spices to fully infuse into the liquid, making every sip burst with autumnal goodness.

Can I Make This Sangria Ahead of Time?

Yes, this is a fantastic make-ahead drink! Prepare the base with wine, cider, syrup, brandy, fruits, and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Just hold off on adding the club soda or ginger ale until right before serving to maintain that refreshing fizz.

What If I Can’t Find Pumpkin Spice Syrup?

No worries! You can make a quick homemade version by simmering 1 cup of water with 1 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for about 5 minutes. Strain and cool before using it in your sangria.