As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, I find myself reminiscing about cozy gatherings with friends and family. One of my fondest memories is of a chilly autumn evening spent around a fire pit, laughter mingling with the scent of spiced cider. It was during one of these gatherings that I first tasted a delightful Spiced Pear Sangria, a drink that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall. This recipe has since become a staple in my home, a way to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
What Makes This Sangria Special
This Spiced Pear Sangria stands out for several reasons:
- Seasonal Flavors: The combination of ripe pears, warm spices, and a hint of citrus creates a symphony of fall flavors that dance on your palate.
- Versatile Base: You can easily customize this sangria with your favorite wines or spirits, making it adaptable for any gathering.
- Effortless Elegance: This drink looks as beautiful as it tastes, making it a stunning centerpiece for your autumn table.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 2 hours | Servings: 6-8
- 1 bottle of dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 2 ripe pears, sliced
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 star anise (optional)
- Fresh orange slices for garnish
Let’s Get Cooking
- In a large pitcher, combine the sliced pears, apple cider, brandy, and orange liqueur.
- Add the dry white wine and stir gently to combine.
- Drop in the cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise for that warm, spiced flavor.
- Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Before serving, add fresh orange slices for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve over ice and enjoy the taste of fall in every sip!
Helpful Hints & Variations
For a fun twist, try adding a splash of ginger beer just before serving for a fizzy kick. You can also experiment with different fruits like apples or pomegranates to give your sangria a unique flair!
Perfect Pairings
This Spiced Pear Sangria pairs wonderfully with:
- Cheese platters featuring sharp cheddar and creamy brie
- Roasted butternut squash soup
- Spiced pumpkin muffins for a sweet treat
FAQs
Q: Can I make this sangria ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to develop even more.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Spiced Pear Sangria is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of the season. Each sip transports me back to those cherished moments with loved ones, reminding me of the warmth and joy that fall brings. I hope it brings the same comfort and happiness to your gatherings.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe, make it your own, and share your experiences! Whether you tweak the ingredients or add your personal touch, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Cheers to fall and the memories we create around the table!
Spiced Pear Sangria That Tastes Like Fall on Ice
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, sliced
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup brandy
- 1/2 cup orange liqueur
- 1 bottle dry white wine (750ml)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- Fresh orange slices for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine the sliced pears, apple cider, brandy, and orange liqueur.
- Add the dry white wine and stir gently to combine.
- Drop in the cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise for that warm, spiced flavor.
- Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Before serving, add fresh orange slices for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve over ice and enjoy the taste of fall in every sip!
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