This Pumpkin Spice Fireball Sangria is a fun fall drink that mixes white wine, cinnamon‑spiced Fireball whisky, pumpkin puree, and apple cider. Slice up some apples and oranges, toss in cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and a little ground cinnamon, then let everything chill together in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight for better flavor. Serve it with fruit pieces and a cinnamon stick. If you’re feeling extra playful, you can light the cinnamon stick just before serving for a hint of smoke and drama. It’s cozy, seasonal, and sure to be a hit at fall gatherings.
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Tasting Notes
Pumpkin Spice Fireball Sangria is bold and seasonal, with layers of spice, fruit, and warmth. The white wine base provides crisp acidity, balancing the sweetness of apple cider and fruit slices. Fireball Cinnamon Whisky adds unmistakable spice and warmth, creating a lingering cinnamon kick. Pumpkin purée enriches the texture, bringing an autumn-inspired body that sets this sangria apart. Ground nutmeg and cinnamon add complexity, while fresh apple and orange slices release natural sweetness and bright citrus notes. The optional maple syrup enhances smoothness. Each sip combines fruit, spice, and warmth, offering a drink that feels seasonal and memorable.
Equipment and Glassware
Making this Pumpkin Spice Fireball Sangria requires just a few essentials. A large pitcher or glass beverage dispenser is the best choice for combining the wine, cider, spirits, and fruit. A wooden spoon or silicone spatula is ideal for mixing, especially when incorporating pumpkin purée evenly into the liquid. A sharp knife and cutting board are necessary for preparing apples and oranges. A fine-mesh strainer can be useful if you prefer a smoother drink with less pumpkin texture. For serving, stemless wine glasses or short tumblers allow room for fruit slices and garnishes while showcasing the colorful mix of autumn ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of white wine (750 ml, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 2 apples, sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, Fireball, pumpkin puree, and apple cider. Stir well until the pumpkin puree is fully mixed into the liquid.
- Add the sliced apples, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. If you want it a bit sweeter, stir in the maple syrup.
- Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours to let the flavors combine. For best results, leave it overnight.
- Pour the sangria into the glasses, making sure each serving gets a mix of fruit slices. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- For a viral twist, briefly light the cinnamon stick on fire for a smoky aroma (use caution). Add a dash of nutmeg over the top.
Pro Tips
- Use unsweetened pumpkin purée to prevent the sangria from becoming too heavy.
- Choose crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for texture and flavor.
- For best results, chill the sangria overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Double strain when pouring if you prefer less pumpkin texture.
- Adjust sweetness with maple syrup depending on the wine and cider you use.
- Use caution when flaming cinnamon sticks do this only tableside for effect.
- A dash of fresh nutmeg before serving enhances aroma and presentation.
When to Serve
Pumpkin Spice Fireball Sangria is ideal for autumn events where bold flavors shine. It’s an excellent fit for Halloween gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or Friendsgiving celebrations. The warming spice from Fireball and pumpkin purée makes it well suited for cooler evenings, while its fruit-forward character keeps it lively enough for daytime parties. It works beautifully alongside spiced desserts, cheese boards, or hearty fall dishes. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a festive holiday table, this sangria serves as both a conversation piece and a flavorful drink that ties in perfectly with seasonal ingredients and presentation.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- White Wine: Josh Cellars Pinot Grigio, Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, or Barefoot Pinot Grigio for easy balance.
- Whiskey: Fireball Cinnamon Whisky for signature flavor; Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire for a milder option.
- Apple Cider: Fresh-pressed local cider for authentic flavor, or Martinelli’s for consistency.
- Pumpkin Purée: Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin or homemade for control over texture.
- Spices: McCormick or Penzeys ground spices; fresh cinnamon sticks for best aroma.
- Garnishes: Organic apples, navel oranges, and whole cinnamon sticks.
Similar Cocktails
- Grapefruit Berry Rosé Sangria
- Cranberry Pineapple Sangria
- Strawberry Mint Sangria
- Pineapple Mango Colada Sangria
- Maple Pumpkin Red Sangria
Equipment
- Large Pitcher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of white wine 750 ml, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- 1 cup Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
- ½ cup pumpkin puree unsweetened
- 2 cups apple cider
- 2 apples sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
- 1 orange sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp maple syrup optional, for sweetness
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, Fireball, pumpkin puree, and apple cider. Stir well until the pumpkin puree is fully mixed into the liquid.
- Add the sliced apples, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. If you want it a bit sweeter, stir in the maple syrup.
- Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours to let the flavors combine. For best results, leave it overnight.
- Pour the sangria into the glasses, making sure each serving gets a mix of fruit slices. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- For a viral twist, briefly light the cinnamon stick on fire for a smoky aroma (use caution). Add a dash of nutmeg over the top.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Pinot Grigio works well for a crisp finish, while Sauvignon Blanc gives extra citrus character.
- Letting the sangria rest overnight deepens the fruit and spice flavors.
- If using pumpkin purée from a can, ensure it is unsweetened and smooth.