Cherry Sangria: A Refreshing Cocktail Recipe for Girls

Sangria is the perfect cocktail for a fun gathering or a relaxing evening at home. Bursting with flavors from fresh fruits and a hint of sweetness, Cherry Sangria is sure to impress your friends. From my own personal experience, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser. Let me jump into how to make this delightful drink step by step, including some variations and tips for those with specific dietary needs.

Notes on What to Expect

When making Cherry Sangria, expect a vibrant, fruity cocktail that brings a splash of summer to any occasion. The combination of flavors will create a delightful taste experience that’s refreshing and fun. From my own personal experience, it’s always a hit at gatherings, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to whip it up for every celebration.

Quick Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Time to Stand: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 6-8
• Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: $15-20 (varies by location)
• Equipment Needed: Large pitcher, wooden spoon, and measuring cups
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #CherrySangria here 

Ingredients

For the Cherry Sangria:

• 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (Spanish wine like Tempranillo is great, but any dry red wine works)
• 1 cup cherry juice (preferably unsweetened)
• 1/2 cup brandy (optional)
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Triple Sec or Cointreau)
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved (frozen cherries work too)
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 lime, sliced
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar (optional, to taste)
• 2 cups club soda or lemon-lime soda (for added sweetness)
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #CherrySangria here 

Method

1. Prepare the Fruit: Start by washing and slicing the oranges, lemons, and limes. If you’re using fresh cherries, pit and halve them. This is where the cocktail gets its vibrant color and flavor.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, cherry juice, brandy, and orange liqueur. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
3. Add the Fruit: Gently add the prepared fruit to the pitcher. This step is not only for flavor but also adds a beautiful visual appeal to the sangria.
4. Sweeten to Taste: If you like your sangria a bit sweeter, add the sugar and stir until it’s dissolved. Remember, you can always add more sugar later, but you can’t take it out!
5. Let It Chill: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours). This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve: When you’re ready to serve, add the club soda or lemon-lime soda to the pitcher for a refreshing fizz. Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice, and garnish with extra fruit slices if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Wine Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can substitute the red wine with white wine or even sparkling wine.
• Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits like strawberries, peaches, or apples. They all work wonderfully in sangria.
• Brandy-Free: If you’re avoiding alcohol, simply omit the brandy and use more juice or soda instead.
• Dietary Needs: For those with dietary restrictions, opt for organic wines or low-sugar juices. Always check the labels!
• Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  #CherrySangria here 

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 200
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugars: 18g (varies based on added sugar and juice)
• Protein: 0g

Troubleshooting Tips

• Too Sweet: If your sangria turns out sweeter than you’d like, add more citrus slices or a splash of soda to balance the flavors.
• Lacks Flavor: Letting it stand longer in the fridge can help enhance the flavor. Try to give it at least a few hours before serving.
• Flat Sangria: To keep your sangria fizzy, add the soda just before serving rather than letting it sit.

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition based on the ingredients used for Cherry Sangria, along with serving suggestions and additional notes for your reference.

Nutrition Breakdown Table

Total Nutrition Information (for 1 Serving)

• Calories: ~200 (if made with brandy and sugar)
• Carbohydrates: ~24g
• Sugars: ~15g
• Protein: ~1g
• Fat: 0g

Serving Suggestions

1. Glassware: Serve the Cherry Sangria in large wine glasses or mason jars for a casual look.
2. Garnishes: Add extra fruit slices (like cherries or oranges) for a pop of color. Fresh mint leaves can also enhance the presentation and flavor.
3. Ice: Serve over ice for a chilled drink, especially on warm days.
4. Food Pairings: Pair with light appetizers like cheese platters, bruschetta, or fruit skewers. It also complements grilled chicken or seafood dishes nicely.

Notes

• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar based on personal taste preferences. If using sweet wines or juice, you might want to skip the added sugar altogether.
• Make It Ahead: Sangria tastes better when allowed to sit. Making it a few hours in advance can enhance the flavors, so plan accordingly.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding other fruits like peaches, strawberries, or even a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical twist!
• Alcohol-Free Option: Substitute the wine and brandy with sparkling grape juice or kombucha for a refreshing non-alcoholic version.

FAQs on Cherry Sangria

1. Can I use white wine instead of red wine for Sangria?

Absolutely! White wine can create a lighter, refreshing version of sangria. Try a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, and consider using white fruit juices like peach or pineapple to complement the flavors.

2. How long can I store leftover Sangria?

Sangria is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator. Consume within 2-3 days for optimal flavor. However, the fruit may start to break down, so the taste might change slightly.

3. Is there a low-sugar version of Cherry Sangria?

Yes! Use unsweetened cherry juice, skip the added sugar, and opt for a dry wine. You can also use sparkling water instead of soda to keep it light and refreshing.

4. Can I make Sangria in advance?

Definitely! In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours (or even overnight) enhances the flavors. Just add the soda right before serving to maintain its fizziness.

5. What fruits work well in Sangria?

You can use a variety of fruits such as strawberries, peaches, oranges, lemons, limes, apples, and even melons. Get creative and mix your favorites!

Final Words

Cherry Sangria is not just a drink; it’s a celebration in a glass! Perfect for gatherings with friends, casual dinners, or simply to unwind after a long day, this cocktail brings together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. From my own personal experience, it’s incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit any occasion or palate.

So when you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a party, or just enjoying a cozy evening, Cherry Sangria is sure to delight. Embrace your creativity in the kitchen, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients. Enjoy crafting this delightful beverage and savoring every sip! Cheers to good times and great flavors! 🍹