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As the leaves transition to a vibrant tapestry of reds and golds, I find myself craving something light, fruity, and refreshing to accompany the golden autumn days. Enter the Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria — a captivating blend that bursts with the crisp tartness of green apple, tempered by the sweet floral notes of Moscato wine.

I discovered this delightful concoction while searching for a way to elevate my casual gatherings, and it’s become a standout favorite among friends and family. The blend of Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur and fresh apple purée brings a fantastic depth that harmonizes beautifully with tropical pineapple juice, strawberries, and oranges, making it a perfect companion for festive brunches or cozy evenings alike.

Imagine the clinking of glasses, laughter mingling with the sweet aroma of fruit, and you have the essence of this sangria. Ready to impress your guests or simply treat yourself? Let’s dive into crafting this refreshing drink that will transport you straight to a sunny afternoon, no matter the season.

Why is Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria a Must-Try?

Bursting with flavor: The unique combination of green apple, Moscato, and pineapple juice creates a refreshing, sweet-tart balance that’s truly irresistible.
Ideal for gatherings: Perfect for outdoor parties or cozy get-togethers, this sangria is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Effortless preparation: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delightful cocktail ready in no time.
Versatile and fun: Personalize it by swapping fruit or adding mint for a twist — the options are endless!
Make your next get-together memorable with this inviting drink and check out more cocktail recipes on our blog for inspiration!

Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria Ingredients

Get ready to mix this delicious cocktail with these fresh ingredients!

For the Sangria Base

Chilled Moscato – A sweet base that brings floral and honey notes; opt for a sweeter style for a more balanced drink.
Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur – Adds a delightful tartness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the sangria.
Pineapple Juice – Introduces a tropical twist, perfect for brightening and balancing the flavors.

For the Apple Purée

Green Apple Puree (5-6 oz) – This provides the core apple flavor; blend cooked green apples for a smooth consistency.

For the Fresh Fruit

Cut Strawberries (1 cup) – They add color and sweetness; feel free to substitute with raspberries for a different burst of flavor.
Orange (1, sliced) – Offers citrus notes for freshness; lemon slices can be used for a tangier effect.
Green Apples (3, chopped) – Infuses the sangria with texture and a crisp apple flavor; any tart variety can work here.

With these ingredients for your Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria, you’re set for a delightful experience!

How to Make Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria

Make the Green Apple Puree:
Chop 2-3 green apples into large chunks. In a medium saucepan, heat 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water, add the apple chunks, and cook for about 10 minutes until softened. Allow to cool, then blend with a squeeze of lemon juice until smooth.
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large pitcher, pour in the chilled Moscato, pineapple juice, Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur, and your smooth green apple puree. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are nicely blended.
Add Fresh Fruits:
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, sliced orange, and green apple chunks to the mixture. This will create a vibrant, fruity texture in your sangria.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the sangria immediately over ice for a refreshing experience, or refrigerate until you’re ready to serve to keep it chilled and flavorful.

Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added touch of elegance.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria are perfect for meal prep aficionados looking to save time! You can prepare the green apple puree up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen without losing quality. Simply blend the cooked apples, refrigerate in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh until you’re ready to mix the sangria. Additionally, you can combine the Moscato, pineapple juice, and Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur in your pitcher ahead of time, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just before serving, add the fresh fruits to maintain their vibrant texture and flavor. This way, you’ll have a delicious, refreshing drink that’s just as delightful as if you’d made it on the spot!

Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria Variations

Flair up your drink with these delightful twists and substitutions that will spark joy in every sip!

Berry Blast: Swap strawberries for a mix of blueberries and blackberries to add a burst of tangy flavor and vibrant color.
Citrus Serenade: Use blood oranges or tangerines instead of regular oranges for a unique citrusy depth that brightens the sangria.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh mint leaves into your sangria just before serving for an invigorating, herbaceous note that adds freshness.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a few slices of jalapeño to the pitcher; the result is a delightful sweet-heat contrast.
Sparkling Twist: Before serving, top each glass with a splash of club soda for a fizzy finish that elevates the refreshing qualities of the sangria.
Coconut Vibes: Mix in coconut water along with the pineapple juice for an added tropical flair that transports you to a sunny beach.
Apple Variety: Experiment with different apple varieties, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, for a sweeter flavor profile that complements the tartness.

With these variations, you’re ready to create a sangria tailored to your taste and make every gathering unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria

Prep Ahead: Make the apple puree in advance to save time during your gathering; it stays fresh in the fridge for up to two days.
Sweetness Control: Choose your Moscato wisely; a sweeter wine will yield a richer sangria, while a dry variant leads to a more tart taste.
Highlight Freshness: Add freshly chopped herbs like mint just before serving for an extra burst of flavor that complements the sangria beautifully.
Fruit Variations: Don’t hesitate to switch out strawberries for your favorite berries; blueberries or blackberries can add a delightful twist to the Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria.
Ice Strategy: To prevent dilution, wait to add ice until you’re ready to serve, keeping your sangria crisp and refreshing.

What to Serve with Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria?

As you mix this vibrant sangria, imagine the perfect companions to elevate your gathering to new heights.

Savory Cheese Platter:
A selection of mild cheeses complements the fruity notes of the sangria, enhancing the overall tasting experience. Pair with some crispy crackers for added texture.
Grilled Chicken Skewers:
Tender, marinated chicken adds a savory element that balances the sweetness of the sangria, perfect for outdoor barbecues. Consider serving with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful contrast.
Fresh Spinach Salad:
A light salad with crisp spinach, a sprinkle of feta, and seasonal fruits offers a fresh and vibrant contrast. The acidity of the dressing will harmonize beautifully with the sangria’s flavors.
Mini Caprese Bites:
Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic reduction make an easy finger food that pairs perfectly with the refreshing drink.
Tropical Fruit Salad:
Highlight the fruity essence of your sangria by serving a colorful fruit salad featuring papaya, mango, and citrus. The bright flavors will make everything feel like a sunny day.
Vanilla Ice Cream:
Serve this indulgent treat alongside your sangria to create a delightful dessert that contrasts the tangy fruity flavors. Drizzle it with a little sangria for a whimsical twist!

Each of these pairing options is designed to enhance the flavors of your Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria, ensuring a memorable and delicious gathering.

How to Store and Freeze Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria

Fridge: Keep your sangria in a sealed pitcher or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will preserve the freshness and flavors.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the sangria a few hours in advance; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just hold off on adding ice until you’re ready to serve!

Freezer: While freezing isn’t recommended for the sangria itself, you can freeze individual fruits used in the recipe to add an extra chill when serving.

Reheating: Sangria is best served cold; avoid reheating. Instead, refresh it with ice or add a splash of club soda for a light fizz before serving.

Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best green apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting green apples, look for firm apples without any dark spots or bruises. Varieties like Granny Smith are ideal due to their tartness, which complements the sweetness of the Moscato beautifully.

How long can I store Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria in the fridge?
You can keep your sangria in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a sealed pitcher or airtight container. This ensures the flavors stay fresh and vibrant, giving you a delicious drink ready to serve whenever you are!

Can I freeze Olive Garden Green Apple Sangria?
While it’s best not to freeze the sangria itself, you can freeze the individual fruits used in the recipe! Just chop and place them in an airtight container or bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve the sangria, toss in some frozen fruit for an extra chill!

What if my sangria is too sweet?
Very! If your sangria turns out sweeter than you intended, consider adding a splash of club soda or tonic water to introduce some fizz and balance the sweetness. Alternatively, you can add more citrus slices or a bit more green apple puree for acidity.

Is this cocktail suitable for kids or non-drinkers?
For sure! You can easily make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the Moscato and Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur. Substitute with sparkling cider or a mix of apple juice and club soda for a flavorful, fizzy drink that everyone can enjoy!

Can I make the apple puree in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the green apple puree ahead of time. Just blend the apples as instructed, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. This will help streamline your preparation when you’re ready to mix the sangria!