There’s something about an Aperol Spritz that just screams summer to me. Maybe it’s the vibrant orange color or the refreshing blend of bitter and sweet. Whatever it is, this cocktail has become one of my warm-weather go-tos. I love how simple it is to throw together, making it perfect for when you want something a little special. And let’s be honest, holding that beautiful orange drink makes you feel like you’re on vacation, even if you’re just in your backyard.
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If you love refreshing cocktails, try our cranberry Aperol spritz for a seasonal twist. For other refreshing spritz variations, our Hugo spritz and frozen Aperol spritz are perfect summer cocktails. If you’re hosting a gathering, our red sangria and sangria blanca make fantastic batch cocktails that everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Making an Aperol Spritz is simple and quickly becomes one of your favorite summer cocktails. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll enjoy this refreshing Italian cocktail in no time!
In the printable recipe below, you can find a complete list of ingredients and measurements.
- Aperol: This Italian aperitif is the star of the show. With its distinctive bittersweet flavor and bright orange hue, there’s really no substitute that can perfectly mimic its taste.
- Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine adds perfect fizz and fruity notes. If you can’t find Prosecco, any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne will do the trick.
- Soda Water: A splash of soda water lightens up the drink and adds extra bubbles. You could use tonic water in a pinch, but it’ll add some sweetness to your spritz.
- Orange Slice: While technically a garnish, that orange slice isn’t just for show. It adds a fresh citrus aroma that complements the Aperol beautifully. No oranges? A lemon slice can work, too.
How to Make an Aperol Spritz
Here are the quick, step-by-step instructions with visuals; you can find the full instructions, including the exact ingredients, in the recipe card below.
Pro-tip: Express an orange peel over your drink before garnishing. This quick twist releases aromatic oils, enhancing the citrus notes in your Aperol Spritz.
1. Mix the drink: Fill a wine glass with ice, then pour in 3 ounces of Prosecco. Follow that with 2 ounces of Aperol, and finish with 1 ounce of soda water.
2. Stir gently: Give your drink a light stir to combine all the ingredients. You want to mix everything without losing too much of the fizz.
3. Garnish and serve: Top off your Aperol Spritz with an orange slice. Not only does it look great, but it also adds a hint of fresh citrus to each sip.
Recipe Tips and Notes
- The classic ratio is 3-2-1 (Prosecco-Aperol-Soda), but feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Use a wine glass with a stem to help keep your cocktail cold and prevent your hands from warming up the glass.
More Summer Cocktails to Try
Looking for more cocktail recipes? Try these other favorites:
- Frozen Aperol Spritz – A frosty twist on the classic Italian cocktail. This refreshing drink blends Aperol ice cubes with Prosecco for a slushy texture that won’t water down as you enjoy it.
- St. Germain Margarita – Elevate your margarita game with our St. Germain Margarita, which features elderflower liqueur and tequila. Plus, try our restaurant-inspired Aperol variation for added citrus depth.
- Strawberry Pineapple Frosé – This frozen rosé is a perfect summertime drink. It’s light and refreshing and not too sweet.
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Aperol Spritz
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Ingredients
- 3 ounces Prosecco
- 2 ounces Aperol
- 1 ounce soda water
- orange slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice then add the Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with an orange slice and serve.
Made some for a pool party and it was a huge hit!