Sunday Funday Sangria

I say this every year around this time, but OMG I can't believe it's almost Christmas! Where has the year gone?! I usually get pretty sentimental around the holidays because I can't always be with my family in Berlin. It's a time I reflect on what's important in life and what to look forward to in the next year.
One really amazing thing I experienced this past year is that I have a solid group of friends in my life - friends who are like family to me. So it seemed fitting to spend quality time with them this close to Christmas. 

Last Sunday I hosted a "Girlfriends-Christmas-in-PJs-Brunch" and found THE perfect recipe that inspired my "Sunday Funday Winter Sangria" concoction. 


If you decide on making this, don't plan on driving anywhere...you will want to have more than just one glass of this deliciousness!


I think the key ingredients that really elevate this recipe (besides the wine, of course), are the cinnamon sticks. You definitely want to have enough for each serving. Their spicy aroma makes the sangria taste like Christmas in a glass!



Sunday Funday Winter Sangria (inspired by Flavour & Savour)

Ingredients for about 8 Cups:
  • 1 750ml bottle red wine (I used Pinot Noir - if you want this a bit stronger, add another half bottle)
  • 2 cups non-alcoholic apple cider
  • 1 cup unsweetened cranberry juice
  • 3/4 cup Triple Sec OR 1/2 cup Brandy
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 green and 1 red apple - unpeeled & diced
  • about 10 cinnamon sticks 
  • sparkling water or Ginger Ale to top off each glass
  • optional: add some honey or Stevia to sweeten this up

Preparation:
  1. Combine wine, cider, cranberry juice, Triple Sec or Brandy to a large pitcher or bowl.
  2. Add cranberries, apples, and about 4 cinnamon sticks. Mix well.
  3. Pour sangria into glasses, top off with a little sparkling water, and garnish with one or two cinnamon sticks.
Good luck only having 1 glass. This is SO good!
Enjoy and have a happy, healthy, and peaceful Christmas!
Love,
Lena


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