This Caramel Apple Sangria is the ultimate fall-inspired cocktail — crisp, sweet, and bursting with cozy apple-caramel flavor. It’s a refreshing yet comforting drink that captures the best of autumn in every glass. Fresh apple slices, white wine, apple cider, and caramel vodka come together to create a perfectly balanced beverage that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, Thanksgiving dinner, or simply want to unwind with something seasonal, this sangria is a showstopper. It’s simple to prepare ahead of time, allowing the flavors to blend and deepen. The sweetness of caramel perfectly complements the tartness of the apples and cider, making it irresistible for anyone who loves fall flavors.
Served chilled over ice and garnished with apple slices or a cinnamon stick, this Caramel Apple Sangria is an easy crowd-pleaser that looks stunning in a glass pitcher. It’s festive, flavorful, and ideal for sipping during sweater weather or by a cozy fire.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious fall sangria — and a few ways to adapt it to your taste.
White Wine: A crisp, light white wine such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay works beautifully. Avoid sweet dessert wines since the caramel and cider add plenty of sweetness.
Caramel Vodka: The star of the recipe! It gives the sangria that signature caramel flavor. If unavailable, use vanilla vodka and add a tablespoon of caramel syrup or caramel sauce.
Apple Cider: Adds body and sweetness. You can use fresh apple cider or even spiced apple cider for a cozy twist.
Club Soda or Sparkling Water: Gives the sangria a light, bubbly finish. You can also use ginger ale or sparkling apple juice for added sweetness.
Apples: Use firm apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith. Slice thinly for the prettiest presentation.
Cinnamon Sticks: Infuse a subtle warm spice flavor. Ground cinnamon can be added in a pinch, but sticks look and taste best.
Caramel Sauce (optional): Drizzle a little into each glass or around the rim for a dessert-like touch.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pitcher or glass carafe
- Wooden spoon or stirrer
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups
- Wine glasses or mason jars for serving
- Ice cubes
- Peeler (optional, for apple garnish)
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for a stronger cocktail
- Use sparkling apple cider instead of still cider for extra fizz
- Mix in pear slices for a more complex fruit flavor
- Add a dash of pumpkin pie spice for a festive twist
- Drizzle caramel on the inside of glasses before serving
- Float a cinnamon stick or star anise in each glass for presentation
- For a lighter version, replace half the cider with sparkling water
- Use red wine instead of white for a deep, cozy sangria variation
How to Make Caramel Apple Sangria
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay)
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup caramel vodka
- 1 cup club soda or sparkling water
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- Optional: caramel sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sangria takes just 10 minutes to mix and about 2 hours to chill for optimal flavor. It’s best served cold, allowing the fruit and spices to infuse into the wine.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fruit
Wash and thinly slice the apples. You can peel them if you prefer a smoother look, but leaving the skin adds color and texture to your sangria.
2. Mix the Base
In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, apple cider, and caramel vodka. Stir well to blend the flavors.
3. Add Apples and Cinnamon
Add the sliced apples and cinnamon sticks to the pitcher. Gently stir to combine — this will help release the apple and spice aromas.
4. Chill and Infuse
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours for a stronger flavor infusion. The longer it chills, the more the apples will absorb the caramel flavor.
5. Add Sparkle and Serve
Just before serving, stir in the club soda (or sparkling water) for a refreshing fizz. Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice and garnish with a drizzle of caramel sauce, apple slices, or a cinnamon stick.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
Follow these tips to make your Caramel Apple Sangria taste as perfect as it looks.
- Chill the sangria for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors blend.
- Use crisp apples that hold their shape and don’t turn mushy.
- For extra sweetness, rim the glasses with caramel sauce and sugar.
- Don’t add the club soda until serving time — this keeps it bubbly.
- Serve over plenty of ice for a refreshing, light texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Caramel Apple Sangria ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when made ahead. Mix all ingredients except the sparkling water, and refrigerate overnight. Add the sparkling element right before serving.
Can I make this sangria non-alcoholic?
Absolutely. Replace the wine with white grape juice and the vodka with caramel syrup or caramel-flavored coffee syrup. Use sparkling apple cider for a fun, fizzy touch.
How long does sangria last in the fridge?
It keeps well for up to 3 days, though the apples may soften slightly. For best flavor, enjoy it within 24–36 hours of making.
What’s the best wine for sangria?
A light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or unoaked Chardonnay is ideal. Avoid overly sweet wines since the cider and caramel already add plenty of sugar.