Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 25kcal
When it’s a hot summer day, nothing beats a refreshing drink in hand. Picture this: you’re lounging by the pool, laughter fills the air, and you take a sip of a vibrant, fruity sangria. Paired with light appetizers like bruschetta or fresh guacamole, this experience turns into a mini get-together that you’ll remember well into the fall.
That's exactly why I adore Applebee's Red Sangria! It's simple, fun, and bursting with flavor!
As a die-hard fan of refreshing beverages, the Applebee's Red Sangria has stolen my heart. With its balance of sweetness from the fruits and a slight tartness from the cranberry juice, it’s an easy drink to whip up that feels fancy but doesn’t require extensive cocktail knowledge.
This drink embodies summer evenings spent with friends and family, and the best part? You can easily recreate it at home.
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The Applebee's Red Sangria recipe is a delightful blend of red wine, fruity liqueurs, and refreshing fruit juices. Traditionally served over ice, this drink combines flavors of cranberry and pineapple, which perfectly complement the wine. It’s garnished with fresh fruit, making it visually appealing and tasty. If you’ve ever enjoyed a meal at Applebee's, you know that this drink pairs beautifully with their menu options!
Imagine sipping a glass of fruity goodness that strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet. The smooth Cabernet Sauvignon brings depth, while the apple liqueur adds a touch of sweetness. The burst of cranberry and pineapple juices provides a refreshing, tangy backbone. The fizzy topping from the lemon-lime soda elevates the drink, giving it an effervescent finish that makes each sip feel like a celebration.
This recipe is all about ease and versatility. It’s a fantastic choice for entertaining because you can make a big batch ahead of time, letting the flavors meld together before serving. Whether you’re having friends over for game night, hosting a barbecue, or just lounging on a summer evening, this drink is bound to impress. Plus, the range of flavors makes it appealing to everyone!
To mix up your own batch of Applebee's Red Sangria, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/3 cup Cabernet Sauvignon (Sutter Home is a great choice)
- 1 1/4 oz sour apple liqueur (or use a green apple schnapps)
- 1/2 oz pomegranate syrup (instead of grenadine)
- 1 1/2 oz cranberry juice blend
- 1 1/2 oz fresh pineapple juice
- Lemon-lime soda or sparkling water for top-off
- Ice cubes for serving
To Serve:
- 2 green apple balls (use a melon baller)
- 1 slice of orange
- 1 slice of lime
- 1-2 maraschino cherries
- A sprig of fresh mint for garnish (new addition for extra flavor)
Ingredients From : thechunkychef.com
Let's break down the steps to create this refreshing beverage. Following this process will ensure your sangria turns out perfectly every time!
Grab a tall serving glass and fill it with ice cubes. This is essential as it helps keep your sangria chilled and refreshing.
In a mixing glass, pour in the Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by the sour apple liqueur. Next, add the pomegranate syrup—a fantastic alternative to grenadine for a unique twist. Then, pour in the cranberry juice and pineapple juice. For those of you who love vibrant flavors, feel free to try a splash of lemon juice!
Gently stir the mixture to combine all those flavor components. This step allows the different ingredients to marry nicely, creating a harmonious taste.
Once your mixture is blended, pour it over the ice-filled glass. Top everything off with lemon-lime soda or sprinkle some sparkling water on top for a lighter option. The bubbling fizz really adds another layer of excitement!
Now comes the fun part! Take your skewer or sturdy toothpick and thread on a green apple ball, a cherry, and another apple ball. This colorful accent adds a personal touch to your drink. Add the orange and lime slices to the glass for an eye-catching presentation and extra flavor.
- Wine Choice: Choose a decent-quality Cabernet Sauvignon for the best flavor. Don’t worry about breaking the bank; many affordable options taste great.
- Fruit varieties: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like strawberries or riper peaches for added sweetness and flavor.
- Chill the Ingredients: To keep your sangria refreshing without diluting it, chill the juices and liqueurs in advance.
- Batch Prep: Multiply the ingredients to make a pitcher-sized version for parties, mixing it a few hours ahead for the flavors to meld.
- Try Before You Serve: Always taste your sangria before serving and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more juice or liqueur if necessary.
Sangria is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftover mix in the fridge for up to two days. Just be cautious; fizzy components like soda may lose their bubbly charm. Always add fresh mixers right before serving to preserve that delightful fizz.
Serving Suggestions
1. Bruschetta: This classic Italian starter with tomatoes and basil pairs beautifully with the fruity flavors of the sangria.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: The charred and savory flavors create a delicious contrast with the sweet notes of the drink.
3. Guacamole and Chips: The creamy avocado blends well with the refreshing sangria, making it a fantastic choice for your gathering.
4. Cheese Board: Include a selection of cheeses, especially brie and sharp cheddar, to complement the flavors.
5. Spicy Shrimp Tacos: The heat from the shrimp balances well with the cool, fruity drink.
1. Red Wine: If you don’t have Cabernet, Merlot or Malbec can also work.
2. Fruit Juices: Swap the cranberry juice for a blend with pomegranate or mixed berry juice for a unique twist.
3. Soda Alternatives: Use tonic water or club soda if you prefer less sweetness.
4. Berries: Substitute green apple balls with fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries for added color and sweetness.
5. Herbs: Replace mint with fresh basil for an entirely different flavor profile.
Making Applebee's Red Sangria at home is both simple and rewarding. With vibrant flavors, this drink is perfect for any celebratory occasion. Whether you enjoy it at a gathering or as a refreshing treat on a warm evening, I can assure you it will become a household favorite.
So, gather your ingredients, mix it up, and toast to delicious moments yet to come! Cheers!
As a die-hard fan of refreshing beverages, the Applebee's Red Sangria has stolen my heart. With its balance of sweetness from the fruits and a slight tartness from the cranberry juice, it’s an easy drink to whip up that feels fancy but doesn’t require extensive cocktail knowledge.
Servings 1
- Wine Choice: Choose a decent-quality Cabernet Sauvignon for the best flavor. Don’t worry about breaking the bank; many affordable options taste great.
- Fruit varieties: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like strawberries or riper peaches for added sweetness and flavor.
- Chill the Ingredients: To keep your sangria refreshing without diluting it, chill the juices and liqueurs in advance.
- Batch Prep: Multiply the ingredients to make a pitcher-sized version for parties, mixing it a few hours ahead for the flavors to meld.
- Try Before You Serve: Always taste your sangria before serving and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more juice or liqueur if necessary.
I’m Crystal Ivers, a registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Family Meal. Living in Chicago with my family, I’m passionate about helping busy families create simple, nutritious, and delicious meals. Through my blog, I share easy-to-make recipes and practical tips to make family mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.