We’ve all fallen for the irresistible charm of Outback Steakhouse’s Blackberry Sangria, a refreshing twist on a classic cocktail that blends juicy blackberries with bold red wine and a hint of citrus. Originating from the vibrant flavors of their Aussie-inspired menu, this drink captures the essence of a sunny getaway right in your glass.
In our kitchen, we’ve perfected this easy-to-make recipe so you can recreate that restaurant magic at home. It’s perfect for gatherings or a relaxing evening, and we’re excited to share our take on this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
To bring the vibrant flavors of Outback Steakhouse Blackberry Sangria to your kitchen, we recommend gathering these key ingredients in the order they’ll be used during preparation.
- Fresh blackberries (2 cups, rinsed and gently muddled for optimal juice release)
- Red wine (1 bottle, preferably a bold Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, chilled for a refreshing base)
- Orange (2 medium, freshly sliced into thin rounds to infuse citrus notes)
- Lemon (1 large, juiced for about ¼ cup to add tangy brightness)
- Brandy (¼ cup, optional but recommended for a deeper, authentic kick)
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons, dissolved in a bit of warm water if needed for sweetness balance)
- Sparkling water (1 cup, added last for a fizzy finish that mimics the restaurant’s effervescence)
These carefully selected ingredients ensure our homemade version captures the bold, fruity essence of the original Outback Steakhouse Blackberry Sangria.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Outback Steakhouse Blackberry Sangria to life, we need a few key tools and equipment that make preparation efficient and enjoyable. Having the right items on hand ensures our homemade version turns out as refreshing and vibrant as the original.
Here’s a curated list of essentials, organized by their role in the process:
- Large Pitcher: We use a 2-quart pitcher for mixing and chilling the sangria, allowing ample space to combine ingredients without overflow and keep flavors well-blended.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing the fruity notes, so precise 1-cup and 1-tablespoon sets help us measure red wine, lemon juice, and sugar effortlessly.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing fresh oranges and preparing blackberries, a sturdy chef’s knife paired with a stable cutting board ensures clean cuts and minimizes prep time.
- Stirring Spoon or Long-Handled Spoon: We rely on a sturdy wooden or metal spoon to gently stir the mixture, releasing the bold, juicy essence of the blackberries and citrus.
- Fine-Mesh Strainer: If we want a smoother sangria, this tool strains out any pulp or seeds from the blackberries, enhancing the drink’s silky texture.
- Citrus Juicer (Optional): For extracting maximum flavor from lemons, a handheld juicer makes the process quick and mess-free, though fresh squeezing works in a pinch.
With these tools ready, we’re set to move seamlessly from ingredients to the mixing stage, capturing the spirited vibe of Outback Steakhouse in every sip.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools ready, let’s guide you through creating our homemade Outback Steakhouse Blackberry Sangria with simple, step-by-step instructions. We’ll ensure each step brings out the vibrant, fruity flavors that make this cocktail a crowd-pleaser.
Prepare the Fruits
First, we rinse 1 cup of fresh blackberries under cold water to remove any dirt, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures our berries are clean and ready to release their juicy, tart essence. Next, we take 1 large orange and slice it into thin rounds using a sharp knife on a cutting board, aiming for about 8 slices to infuse a bright, citrusy zing that balances the sweetness.
For the lemon, we use a citrus juicer to extract 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, capturing its sharp, refreshing tang that elevates the overall blend. If we want a muddled texture, we lightly mash half of the blackberries in a bowl with a fork, releasing their deep purple juices and aromatic notes for a more intense berry flavor in our sangria.
Mix the Sangria
In a large 2-quart pitcher, we start by adding the prepared blackberries and orange slices to create a colorful base that visually tempts with its rich hues. Pour in 1 bottle (750 ml) of bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by 2 tablespoons of optional brandy for an extra layer of warmth and depth.
We then stir in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until it dissolves, sweetening the mixture to highlight the natural tartness of the fruits while maintaining a harmonious balance. Add the 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and use a stirring spoon to blend everything thoroughly, allowing the ingredients to mingle and release a symphony of fruity aromas that promise a refreshing, bold taste.
Chill and Serve
To let the flavors meld, we cover the pitcher and refrigerate the sangria for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, so the mixture chills to a crisp, invigorating temperature and the fruits infuse their essence fully. Before serving, we give it a gentle stir and top each glass with a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy lift that enhances the drink’s lively, effervescent quality.
For serving, we pour the sangria over ice cubes into glasses, garnishing with extra orange slices or whole blackberries for an appealing presentation that showcases the drink’s vibrant colors and fresh appeal—perfect for enjoying the bold, fruity spirit of Outback Steakhouse at home.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Outback Steakhouse Blackberry Sangria recipe is its flexibility for preparation in advance, allowing flavors to meld and making it perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights. We recommend preparing the base mixture up to 24 hours ahead to enhance the bold, fruity essence of blackberries and red wine without compromising freshness.
Preparing the Sangria Base
Follow these streamlined steps to get ahead:
- Rinse and prepare fruits early: Start by rinsing 2 cups of fresh blackberries and slicing 1-2 oranges. Place them in the pitcher as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, then add the red wine, lemon juice, optional brandy, and sugar.
- Mix and chill thoroughly: Stir the ingredients vigorously until the sugar dissolves, then cover the pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, but ideally 4-24 hours, to let the citrus and berry notes intensify.
- Store properly for optimal results: Transfer any unused portion to an airtight container if needed, and keep it chilled in the refrigerator at 40°F or below to maintain quality.
Storage Tips and Timeline
To ensure your sangria stays vibrant and refreshing, we’ve compiled key details in the table below for easy reference:
| Aspect | Recommendation | Duration/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Store in a sealed pitcher or container | Up to 24 hours for peak flavor |
| Shelf Life | Consume within 48 hours after mixing | Beyond this, flavors may dull; discard if any signs of spoilage appear |
| Freezing Option | Not recommended for sangria base | Freezing can alter texture and dilute flavors upon thawing |
When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the chilled base over ice, top with sparkling water, and garnish with extra blackberries or orange slices for that signature Outback Steakhouse touch. This approach keeps the drink fizzy and fresh every time.
Conclusion
We’ve shared our take on Outback Steakhouse’s blackberry sangria, a vibrant mix that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s rewarding to craft this refreshing drink at home and make it your own with simple tweaks.
Remember, experimenting with flavors lets you capture that bold Aussie spirit in every sip. We’re confident you’ll enjoy sharing it with friends and creating lasting memories.
Give it a try and let us know how yours turns out—it’s all about that perfect blend of ease and taste!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Outback Steakhouse’s Blackberry Sangria?
Outback Steakhouse’s Blackberry Sangria is a refreshing cocktail blending blackberries, red wine, and citrus flavors, inspired by their Aussie-themed menu. It’s perfect for gatherings or relaxing evenings, offering a bold, fruity taste that’s easy to recreate at home.
What ingredients are needed for Blackberry Sangria?
You’ll need fresh blackberries, a bold red wine, sliced oranges, lemon juice, optional brandy, granulated sugar, and sparkling water. These simple ingredients combine to create a vibrant, fruity drink that captures the original’s essence.
How do I prepare Blackberry Sangria at home?
Rinse blackberries and slice oranges, then mix them in a pitcher with red wine, lemon juice, sugar, and optional brandy. Stir well, refrigerate for at least two hours, and serve over ice with sparkling water and fresh garnishes for a fizzy finish.
Can I make Blackberry Sangria ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the base up to 24 hours in advance by mixing fruits, wine, and other ingredients, then chill. This allows flavors to meld, making it ideal for parties. Add sparkling water and ice just before serving for the best taste.
How should I store homemade Blackberry Sangria?
Store the mixed sangria in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours for peak flavor. Consume within 48 hours to maintain freshness, and avoid adding sparkling water until serving to preserve its fizz.
What tools are required to make this sangria?
You’ll need a 2-quart pitcher for mixing, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a sharp knife and cutting board for fruits, a stirring spoon, and optionally a fine-mesh strainer or citrus juicer for smoother results and easy juice extraction.