The Aperol Spritz is a vibrant, effervescent cocktail that brings a burst of sunshine to any occasion. Its refreshing blend of bitter Aperol, crisp prosecco, and a splash of soda creates a perfectly balanced sip. The bright orange hue and lively bubbles make it as visually appealing as it is delicious. With just 5 minutes of prep, it’s the ultimate quick indulgence for warm afternoons or evening gatherings.
Each sip offers a harmonious dance of flavors—citrusy, slightly herbal, and delightfully fizzy. The light, airy texture makes it incredibly easy to enjoy, while the subtle bitterness keeps it sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting friends or unwinding solo, this cocktail is a crowd-pleasing classic that feels effortlessly chic. Perfect for when you want something special without the fuss.
What You’ll Need?
- Ice (enough to fill a wine glass)
- 3 ounces Prosecco (chilled for best results)
- 2 ounces Aperol
- 1 ounce club soda or sparkling water (substitute with tonic water for a slightly different flavor)
- Orange slice (for garnish; optional but recommended)
How to Make It
- Prepare the glass: Fill a wine glass with ice to chill it.
- Add the Prosecco: Pour in the chilled Prosecco.
- Mix in the Aperol: Gently add the Aperol to the glass.
- Top it off: Finish with club soda or sparkling water, stirring lightly to combine.
- Garnish and serve: Add an orange slice to the rim of the glass for a fresh, citrusy touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
An Aperol Spritz is a refreshing aperitif that pairs beautifully with light bites. Serve it alongside bruschetta, olives, or charcuterie boards for a classic Italian experience. It’s also a great match for seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or calamari.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Try swapping Prosecco for Champagne for a bubblier twist, or use Campari instead of Aperol for a slightly more bitter flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the Aperol with orange juice and use sparkling water instead of Prosecco.
Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks
Pre-chill your Prosecco and Aperol in the fridge to keep your drink extra refreshing without diluting it with too much ice. You can also pre-slice your oranges and store them in an airtight container for quick garnishing when you’re ready to serve.
Glassware Guidance: The Right Vessel
For an authentic Aperol Spritz, use a large wine glass or stemless wine glass. The wide rim allows the aromas to shine, and the size accommodates the perfect balance of ice, Prosecco, and Aperol. If you don’t have one, a highball glass works too!
Aperol Spritz
Ingredients
- Ice
- 3 ounces Prosecco
- 2 ounces Aperol
- 1 ounce club soda or sparkling water
- Orange slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Pour in the Prosecco, followed by the Aperol and club soda.
- Garnish with an orange slice and serve.