Spiced Pear Sangria: Fall in a Glass

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Introduction

As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on a crisp edge, there’s nothing better than a drink that captures the cozy essence of fall. Enter the Spiced Pear Sangria, a seasonal twist on the classic sangria that blends juicy pears, warm spices, and a touch of autumn magic. This isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a celebration of fall in a glass.

I first discovered this recipe during a potluck dinner with friends. It was one of those perfect fall evenings, with a chill in the air and the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg everywhere. Someone had brought a pitcher of spiced sangria, infused with pears and spiked with a splash of brandy. One sip, and I was hooked. It was fruity, warming, and oh-so-comforting, like a big sweater you can drink.

Since then, the Spiced Pear Sangria has become my go-to drink for fall entertaining. It’s easy to make, looks stunning in a glass, and always wows a crowd. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, a cozy autumn brunch, or a casual movie night, this sangria is guaranteed to set the mood and have everyone asking for a refill.

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The Perfect Drink for Crisp Autumn Days

The Spiced Pear Sangria is autumn in liquid form. Its warm spices—think cinnamon, cloves, and star anise—instantly evoke the feeling of a chilly fall day. Add in the subtle sweetness of pears and the brightness of white wine, and you’ve got a drink that perfectly complements everything we love about the season.

Imagine sipping this drink at a backyard bonfire, the crackle of wood and the glow of the flames adding to the ambiance. Or picture it at your Thanksgiving table, served alongside roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and stuffing. Its flavors pair beautifully with fall comfort foods, making it the ultimate seasonal cocktail.

And don’t overlook its versatility! The Spiced Pear Sangria is equally at home at a sophisticated dinner party as it is at a casual get-together. It’s a drink that feels indulgent yet approachable, making it a staple for autumn gatherings.

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Why Pears and Spices Make the Perfect Match

This sangria owes its magic to the harmonious combination of sweet pears and warm spices. Let’s break down why these ingredients work so well together:

• Pears: Pears bring a subtle, natural sweetness to the drink, along with a delicate floral note. Their soft texture and juicy flavor make them perfect for soaking up the spices in the sangria.
• Cinnamon: A quintessential fall spice, cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the sangria, giving it a cozy, aromatic quality.
• Cloves and Star Anise: These spices add a hint of earthiness and a subtle licorice-like flavor that complements the sweetness of the pears. Together, they create a flavor profile that’s both complex and comforting.
• White Wine: A dry or semi-sweet white wine acts as the perfect canvas for the pears and spices, keeping the drink light and refreshing while allowing the other flavors to shine.
• Brandy: A splash of brandy enhances the fruity notes of the pears and adds a touch of warmth to the sangria. It’s the secret ingredient that gives this drink its satisfying richness.

The combination of these ingredients creates a drink that’s sweet, spiced, and utterly irresistible—just like fall itself.

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How to Make Spiced Pear Sangria: The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe pears (thinly sliced)
• 1 apple (thinly sliced, optional)
• 1 orange (sliced into rounds)
• 1 bottle of dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1/2 cup pear juice (or apple cider for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4–5 whole cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Club soda or sparkling water (optional, for a lighter sangria)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fruit: Thinly slice the pears, apple (if using), and orange. Place them in a large pitcher.
2. Add the spices: Toss in the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
3. Pour in the liquids: Add the white wine, pear juice (or apple cider), and brandy. Stir gently to combine.
4. Sweeten to taste: Stir in honey or maple syrup, adjusting the sweetness to your preference.
5. Chill and infuse: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the fruit and spices to infuse the sangria with their flavors.
6. Serve: When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the sangria over it. For a fizzy touch, top each glass with a splash of club soda or sparkling water.
7. Garnish: Add a slice of pear or orange and a cinnamon stick for a festive garnish.
8. Enjoy: Sip slowly and savor the comforting flavors of fall.

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Picture Gallery

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FAQ Section

Q: Can I use red wine instead of white?
A: While white wine complements the pears and spices beautifully, you can absolutely use a light red wine (like Pinot Noir) for a richer, deeper flavor.

Q: Can I make this drink ahead of time?
A: Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after a night in the fridge. Just add the sparkling water or club soda right before serving to keep it bubbly.

Q: What if I don’t have pear juice?
A: Apple cider or white grape juice works as a great substitute. Both add a similar sweetness and complement the flavors of the sangria.

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Variations

• Cranberry Pear Sangria: Add a handful of fresh cranberries and substitute cranberry juice for pear juice to give the sangria a tart twist.
• Sparkling Spiced Sangria: Use a bottle of prosecco or sparkling wine instead of still wine for a festive, bubbly version.
• Alcohol-Free Option: Replace the wine and brandy with white grape juice or a mix of apple cider and sparkling water for a family-friendly mocktail.
• Herbal Twist: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a hint of herbal complexity.
• Vanilla Infusion: Add a split vanilla bean to the mix for a creamy, aromatic touch.

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When to Serve It

• Thanksgiving Dinner: Its spiced, fruity flavors pair perfectly with classic Thanksgiving dishes.
• Fall Brunch: Serve it alongside pumpkin pancakes or quiches for a seasonal treat.
• Cozy Nights In: Enjoy a glass while curled up with a blanket and your favorite book.
• Bonfire Gatherings: Serve it in mason jars for a rustic, outdoor vibe.

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Occasions to Serve It

This Spiced Pear Sangria is a showstopper at all kinds of events:

• Holiday parties
• Autumn picnics
• Dinner parties
• Game nights
• Seasonal celebrations like Halloween or Friendsgiving

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Conclusion

The Spiced Pear Sangria is everything you want in a fall drink: warm, inviting, and packed with seasonal flavors. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it on your own, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season and savor the simple joys of autumn.

So grab your favorite wine, slice up some pears, and let the spices work their magic. And don’t forget to experiment with your own variations—I’d love to hear how you make this fall classic uniquely yours!