If you’re looking to make your Halloween party extra fun and festive, then this Spooky Sangria is the way to go! Imagine a deep red wine punch with a twist of orange, apple, and the perfect little spooky touches to set the mood. This sangria is not just a drink—it’s a conversation starter. It’s sweet, tart, and oh-so-refreshing, with a lovely burst of fruit that makes it feel like Halloween in every sip. Plus, with a dash of brandy and some creepy add-ins (think gummy worms or eyeball-shaped fruit), it’s an easy, fun way to keep your guests coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Spooky Sangria
What makes this sangria so irresistible? Let’s start with the fact that it’s super easy to make but looks impressive enough to be the star of your Halloween spread. It combines all the fruity flavors you love—citrusy, crisp apples, juicy oranges, and a touch of cinnamon. The wine adds depth, and the brandy gives it a nice little kick. But here’s where it gets spooky: you can add Halloween-themed garnishes like floating eyeball ice cubes or gummy worms for that extra creepy factor. It’s the perfect balance of delicious and dramatic!
Ingredients
To whip up this fang-tastic sangria, you’ll need:
- A bottle of dry red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works wonders)
- Brandy (adds a nice warmth)
- Orange juice for a citrus kick
- A variety of fruit (apples, oranges, and even pears)
- A splash of club soda or ginger ale for a little fizz
- Cinnamon sticks for that autumnal touch
- Optional: Gummy worms or eyeball-shaped fruit for a spooky garnish!
For the full list of ingredients and measurements, keep reading below!
Directions
- Start by washing and slicing your fruit. You’ll want thin slices of oranges, apples, and pears to soak up all that sangria goodness.
- In a large pitcher or bowl, combine your wine, brandy, and orange juice. Stir it all together.
- Add your fruit slices, and throw in a couple of cinnamon sticks. Let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour—overnight is best so all those flavors can mingle and get extra spooky.
- When you’re ready to serve, add a splash of club soda or ginger ale for a little sparkle.
- Pour into glasses, and don’t forget the fun part—garnish with creepy additions like gummy worms hanging over the rim, eyeball ice cubes (just freeze peeled grapes or blueberries), or even a little extra cinnamon if you want that spicy kick.
Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
- Servings: This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on glass size. Perfect for sharing (or not, if you want to keep it all for yourself ).
Variations
- Spiced Version: Add a few whole cloves or a dash of nutmeg to bring more autumn warmth to the sangria.
- Fruity Twist: Add a splash of pomegranate juice or substitute some of the fruit for blackberries for a darker twist.
- Less Boozy: If you want a lighter version, reduce the amount of brandy and top with more soda or juice. You can even use a sparkling cider instead of wine for a totally non-alcoholic version.
FAQs
Can I make this sangria ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better if you let it sit in the fridge overnight. The fruit really soaks up the flavors and makes the drink even more delicious.
What kind of wine should I use?
A dry red wine works best because it balances the sweetness of the fruit and brandy. A Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Shiraz are all great choices. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could also use a rosé.
Can I use other fruits?
Of course! You can get creative with your fruit selection—grapes, pears, pomegranate seeds, or even cranberries would be a great addition for a festive touch.
What should I serve this with?
This sangria is perfect with savory finger foods like cheese platters, roasted nuts, or finger sandwiches. Or, go all-out spooky and serve it with some Halloween-themed appetizers like mini mummy hot dogs or “witches’ fingers” (a.k.a. cheesy breadsticks).
This Spooky Sangria is the drink that’ll steal the show at your Halloween celebration, and trust me, it’ll have your guests talking (and sipping) all night long. Let me know if you try it, or if you add your own spooky twist!
PrintSpooky Sangria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: Spanish-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spooky Sangria is a frightfully fun and easy cocktail for your Halloween parties. Made with red wine, fresh fruit, and a splash of orange liqueur, it’s spiked with flavors that are perfectly eerie for the spooky season. You can add creepy garnishes like floating lychee eyeballs or gummy worms for extra Halloween flair.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
- 2 oranges, sliced
- 1 apple, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
- 1–2 tablespoons sugar (optional, to taste)
- 1 cup soda water or lemon-lime soda (optional for fizz)
- Ice cubes
- Gummy worms, lychees, or other spooky garnishes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, and brandy (if using).
- Add the orange slices, apple pieces, lemon slices, and blackberries to the pitcher.
- Stir in sugar if you’d like the sangria a bit sweeter.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the better it tastes.
- Just before serving, add soda water or lemon-lime soda if you want a fizzy sangria.
- Serve over ice in glasses and garnish with gummy worms, lychees, or other spooky decorations for a Halloween twist.
Notes
- Make it ahead of time! Sangria tastes even better when it sits overnight.
- Add spooky garnishes like “eyeballs” by stuffing a blueberry into the center of a peeled lychee.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, swap out the wine for grape juice and omit the liqueur and brandy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (approximately 8 oz)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 13mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g