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This green apple moscato sangria is just the thing for gatherings when you want something festive and crowd-pleasing. With a nod to Olive Garden’s much-missed signature sangria, this version delivers plenty of ripe fruit plus a zingy green apple twist that feels vibrant and fun at any time of year. Whether you are hosting a fall get-together or preparing a summer pitcher to enjoy on the porch, this magic blend of sweet wine, juicy citrus, apple liqueur, and berries always disappears fast.
I first fell in love with this sangria during a big family game night one autumn. My friends demanded the recipe before the end of the evening and now it makes an appearance at nearly every holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- Moscato: punchy and floral sweet choose a bottle you enjoy drinking on its own
- Orange: thinly sliced for sunny flavor and a pop of color pick heavy fruit that feels juicy
- Green apple: chopped for that signature tartness and crispness Granny Smiths are best for their bold tang
- Apple liqueur: brings a unique twist and apple-forward aroma try to find a high-quality brand for smoothness
- Fresh strawberries: add a jammy sweetness and rosy color choose berries that look deep red and smell fragrant
- Pineapple juice: a tropical note that marries everything together check that your juice is 100 percent pure for clean flavor
- Ice: makes each glass extra refreshing use plenty of fresh cubes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit:
- Wash the green apple and strawberries thoroughly. Core and chop the apple into bite-size pieces. Remove the strawberry stems and slice them thinly. Cut the orange into thin rounds and then quarter those rounds so each piece is easy to eat later on.
- Make the Sangria Base:
- Pour the whole bottle of moscato into a large pitcher. Add the chopped apples, sliced strawberries, and quartered orange rounds. Pour in the cup of apple liqueur followed by the pineapple juice. Stir everything slowly and thoroughly to combine the fruit and liquid so the flavors can start to meld.
- Chill and Marinate:
- Cover the pitcher tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour if you have the time. This rest lets the fruit infuse the sangria with plenty of flavor and color. The longer it sits the better those juicy notes develop.
- Serve Over Ice:
- Take sturdy glasses and fill them generously with clean ice. Pour the chilled sangria over the ice catching lots of juicy fruit in each pour. Use a spoon to make sure each person gets a good scoop of fruit on top for snacking as they sip.
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The green apple in this sangria always stands out for me. Its tartness reminds me of my grandmother’s apple orchard and sparks great conversation every time I serve this to guests who always notice and appreciate that crisp bite.
Storage Tips
This sangria keeps nicely in the fridge for up to two days. If you have leftovers strain out the fruit so it does not get mushy and store the liquid in an airtight jar. Add fresh fruit when you are ready to serve again for the best look and taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the moscato for another lightly sweet white wine or even a sparkling prosecco for extra effervescence. If apple liqueur is unavailable try using hard apple cider which still brings that appley character. Out of strawberries Try raspberries peaches or even grapes for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
This sangria pairs wonderfully with charcuterie boards roast chicken or light pasta salads. For holidays I love garnishing each glass with a cinnamon stick or a green apple slice for a little drama. For Halloween toss in a few gummy worms and watch the kids giggle at the bright color.
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Cultural or Historical Context
Sangria has its roots in Spanish and Portuguese party culture where big crowds and flavorsome punch rule the table. This Americanized twist takes the essence of fiesta and layers in classic fall orchard notes with green apple and liqueur making it a favorite in my house through apple-picking season.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use red apples instead of green apples?
Yes, red apples can be used for a sweeter flavor and a slightly different color profile.
- → What type of moscato works best?
Semi-sweet or sweet moscato complements the fruit flavors, but any preferred moscato works.
- → Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the sangria ahead so the flavors meld, but add ice just before serving.
- → Is it possible to substitute the apple liqueur?
Yes! Pear liqueur or extra pineapple juice makes a delicious alternative in this cocktail.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Use less pineapple juice or opt for a drier moscato to balance sweetness to your liking.
- → What fruits can I add seasonally?
Try pears, peaches, or raspberries to match the season and add variety to your sangria.