Let's learn how to make a classic Italian Aperol Spritz! This Aperol Spritz recipe is the perfect light and fruity summer cocktail for a warm day. Made with just three simple ingredients—Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water—it's refreshing, easy to make, and wonderfully balanced.
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Jump To
- 💖Why we love a classic Aperol Spritz?
- What is the origin of Aperol Spritz?
- What are Aperol spritz made of?
- 🛒 Aperol Spritz Ingredients
- Equipment you need to make this recipe
- 🍽️ How to Make an Aperol Spritz
- How to make an Aperol Spritz punch cocktail:
- How to make an Non alcoholic Aperol Spritz
- What to serve with your Aperol Spritz
- 🫙 Leftover and Storing
- 📃 Variations and Substitutions for the Aperol Spritz
- ☑️ Expert Tips for Making the Perfect Aperol Spritz
- ❓ FAQ'S
- Some other Italian summer recipes you'll love:
- 📖 Recipe
- Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe (3-2-1)
It's Spritz o'clock somewhere! Growing up in Italy and spending every summer of my adult life there, I discovered that as soon as the temperatures would get hot, everyone was drinking a Spritz! The Spritz is even a beloved Italian cocktail in the States, and for a good reason!
When you go for aperitivo in Italy and ask for a Spritz, they ask, "Aperol o Campari?. Aperol or Campari Spritz? Today we are talking about APEROL!
The Aperol Spritz is a quintessential Italian cocktail, beloved for its bright, refreshing taste and vibrant orange hue. This classic Aperol Spritz recipe is simple yet elegant, making it a staple at summer gatherings and a perfect aperitivo.
With just a few Aperol Spritz ingredients—parts Aperol, parts prosecco, and a splash of sparkling water or club soda—this spritz cocktail comes together effortlessly. Serve it in a wine glass over ice, garnished with a fresh orange slice, and you have a drink that's as visually appealing as it is delicious.
What makes the Aperol Spritz so special is its versatility and also how easy it is to make! Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this Spritz recipe is sure to impress.
The combination of bitter, sweet, and bubbly notes creates a balanced, refreshing cocktail that’s ideal for warm weather. And with variations that include different proportions or the addition of club soda, you can easily adjust the flavor to suit your taste. Aperol Spritzes are not just a drink; they’re a celebration of la dolce vita, bringing a bit of Italian sunshine into every glass.
It does look like it's the most fruity cocktail, and it actually is slightly bitter, but super refreshing! And the best part is, you do not need any bar skills to whip up the most perfect Aperol Spritz! I've also included some variations of this favorite Italian summertime drink. Let's make a SPRITZ!
💖Why we love a classic Aperol Spritz?
- Quick and Easy: This Aperol Spritz recipe takes just minutes to prepare, perfect for a last minute party!
- Refreshing and Balanced: The combination of Aperol, Prosecco, and sparkling water creates a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, a bit herbal, and lower in alcohol compared to other cocktails. And bubbly!
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant orange color and the orange slice garnish make this spritz cocktail as beautiful as it is tasty.
- Versatile: Easily customize the proportions or add club soda for a lighter version.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special celebration, Aperol Spritzes are always a hit.
If you like this recipe, you might like my apple cider mimomas or my apple gin cocktail.
What is the origin of Aperol Spritz?
It was in Northern Italy that the original ‘spritz’ cocktail was first created in the 19th century: the story goes that the Austro-Hungarian soldiers stationed in the Veneto region began to drink local wines, which were much too strong for their taste, and started to cut them with water thus creating the first ‘spritz’.
The bright orange Aperol aperitif was launched by the Barbieri brothers in Padua in 1919, but it was after the Second World War that the triad of Aperol with Prosecco and sparkling water became the ultimate Aperol Spritz we know today, although it wasn’t until the 2000s that the drink rose to popularity, thanks also to intensive marketing efforts by the Campari Group that now owns Aperol.
The Aperol Spritz has since become an emblem of Italian aperitivo culture, served across the world to sip with friends in the piazza before dinner. Its alluring combination of refreshing, bubbly and slightly bitter flavors makes it a favorite aperitivo drink in Italy and abroad.
What are Aperol spritz made of?
An Aperol Spritz is a refreshing Italian cocktail made from three simple ingredients: Aperol, prosecco, and sparkling water or club soda. The combination of Aperol’s slightly bitter, citrusy flavor with the light bubbles of Prosecco and a splash of sparkling water creates a balanced, vibrant drink.
A spritz is traditionally served over ice in a large wine glass and garnished with a fresh orange slice, making it perfect for warm days or as a pre-dinner aperitif. The classic ratio is 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part sparkling water.
🛒 Aperol Spritz Ingredients
- Aperol: You can find Aperol next to other bitters and liqueurs. Aperol is vibrant orange-reddish liqueur that tastes slightly bitter and citrusy
- Prosecco: Choose a good quality Prosecco. You can find Italian Prosecco near other sparkling wines and wines. Be sure to use a dry Brut and find one that is DOC or DOCG, as it will have better flavor.
- Sparkling Water or Club Soda: I like to use Pellegrino. You just need splash to add a little more bubbles.
Equipment you need to make this recipe
- To make an Aperol Spritz, you'll need the following equipment:
- Large wine glass: For serving the drink.
- Jigger or measuring cup: To measure the parts of Aperol, prosecco, and sparkling water.
- Bar spoon: For stirring the ingredients gently.
- Ice cubes: To chill the drink.
- Citrus knife: To slice the orange for garnish.
🍽️ How to Make an Aperol Spritz
An Aperol Spritz is so easy to make that you don't even really need a recipe, just stick to the formula! The classic Aperol Spritz ratio is 3-2-1, so you will use 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda water. Creating a spritz with this formula means it won't be too sweet or too bitter, and your cocktail is flavorful.
I know the formula is 3, 2, 1, but I add the Aperol first, then the Prosecco, and finally, the soda water. You can use less Aperol and more Prosecco to keep it less bitter. But for less alcohol content, you would use less Prosecco and Aperol, and more soda water. To stick with the classic recipe, this is what you do (the full recipe is below):
Gather your ingredients.
- Step 1: Choose your Spritz cocktail glass. I like to use white wine glasses, but you could also use a highball glass. Whatever you are comfortable serving it in!
- Step 2: Fill the glass halfway with ice. The drink needs to be COLD, so make sure it's enough ice.
- Step 3: Measure the Aperol with a cocktail jigger and pour it directly over the ice. I use 2 ounces per glass, but you can add a little more, if you like the flavor.
- Step 4: Pour in the Prosecco, you'll be using 3 ounces. Any leftover Prosecco (or Champagne), use a Champagne stopper to keep it bubbly.
- Step 5: A splash of sparkling water to top it off. I like to use Pellegrino, but whatever sparkling or soda water you like is fine. Give it a gentle stir, taking care to not deflate those gorgeous Prosecco bubbles.
- Step 6: Garnish with a slice of orange. Since this is an Italian cocktail, it should be stylish, and you could use a really big orange slice to make a statement.
Give it all a stir, close your eyes, and CIN CIN! Imagine you're with your best friend enjoying a glass in Milano!
Or anywhere in Italy...but this is how you enjoy a Spritz with the view of the DUOMO. Just dreamy!
How to make an Aperol Spritz punch cocktail:
If you having a gathering with friends, you could make a big batch of spritz punch! Here is how you could make it!
To make a punch for a gathering, mix:
- 1 bottle Prosecco
- 10-12 ounces of Aperol
- 1 cup of soda water (I like to use Pellegrino)
- Take a sip and adjust flavor, adding more Aperol, Prosecco or soda water, as you like the flavor.
- Add ice and stir gently.
- Add oranges slices.
- Serve over a bit of ice and add a slice of orange. CIN CIN...cheers!
📃 NOTE: Recipe card with detailed instructions are below! Print it out for later!
How to make an Non alcoholic Aperol Spritz
If you are interested in a non alcoholic spritz, which is in essence, an Italian mocktail. Here is how you could make it!
Ingredients:
- Non-alcoholic bitters or non-alcoholic Aperol substitute
- Non-alcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling water
- Club soda
- Ice
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a large wine glass with ice.
- Add 2 parts non-alcoholic bitters or Aperol substitute.
- Pour in 3 parts non-alcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling water.
- Top with 1 part club soda.
- Stir gently and garnish with a fresh orange slice.
What to serve with your Aperol Spritz
An aperol spritz is served as an aperitivo (or apéritif). Which in Italy, is quite a thing! Aperitivo is a sort of like an American happy hour, but your drink comes with delicious small bites.
Serve Aperol spritz with any Italian appetizer or savory bites, even any thing Mediterranean based would go great. Since an Aperol is on the bitter side, it goes great with salty, creamy and why not a little rich.
Here are some ideas of what to serve it with:
- Artichoke dip >>> this dip is so easy to put together, and always a hit! Goes very nicely with a spritz!
- Olives >>> small plates filled with different types of olives would be perfect!
- potato chips >>> YES, if you are in Italy in the summer months, order an Aperol spritz, and you'll get a bowl of the crispiest potato chips and some olives.
- Focaccia >>> At aperitivo time in Italy, olives, potato chips, and small focaccia bites are a MUST!
- Mozzarella >>> fresh mozzarella, or burrata with an amazing crusty bread.
- Pimiento cheese >>> not even slightly Italian, but this homemade cheese dip is fantastic and so easy to make!
- Baked brie >>> this baked brie in puff pastry comes together in no time and is delicious!
- Breadsticks >>> make some very easy Italian rosemary grissini. These breadsticks are no fuss to make.
- Bruschetta >>> classic bruschetta topped with chopped tomatoes, olive oil, basil, garlic are delicious or bruschetta with mozzarella.
🫙 Leftover and Storing
The only thing leftover may be some of the Prosecco (or Champagne) and you just need to use a champagne stopper on the bottle to keep it nice and fizzy.
📃 Variations and Substitutions for the Aperol Spritz
- Sparkling Wine Substitutes:
- Champagne: For a more luxurious twist, substitute Prosecco with Champagne for a slightly drier, more refined flavor.
- Cava: Swap Prosecco for Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, which brings a crisp and refreshing profile similar to Prosecco but with a unique touch.
- Citrus Variations:
- Lemon Spritz: Replace the orange slice garnish with a lemon slice or lemon twist for a brighter, zestier flavor.
- Grapefruit Spritz: Add a splash of grapefruit juice or garnish with a grapefruit slice for a more bitter, citrusy kick.
- Herbal Enhancements:
- Rosemary or Thyme: Infuse your Aperol Spritz with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a subtle, aromatic twist. Simply add a sprig to the glass as a garnish.
- Basil Spritz: Add a few fresh basil leaves to the glass or muddle them lightly at the bottom for a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Bitters Substitution:
- Campari Spritz: For a stronger, more bitter flavor, replace Aperol with Campari, creating a richer, more intense cocktail.
- Select Spritz: Use Select, another Italian bitter aperitif, for a slightly sweeter and more aromatic variation.
- Non-Alcoholic Version:
- Aperol-Free Spritz: Substitute Aperol with a non-alcoholic bittersweet aperitif, and use non-alcoholic sparkling wine for a zero-proof option that still delivers on flavor and refreshment.
- Fruity Additions:
- Berry Spritz: Add fresh raspberries or blackberries to the glass for a fruity burst that complements the citrus flavors.
- Peach Spritz: Mix in a splash of peach purée for a sweet, summery variation reminiscent of a Bellini.
- Flavor Boosters:
- Elderflower Spritz: Add a splash of elderflower liqueur for a floral, slightly sweet enhancement to the traditional recipe.
- Ginger Spritz: Incorporate a dash of ginger liqueur or ginger beer for a spicy twist on the classic Aperol Spritz.
- Sweetness Adjustments:
- Simple Syrup: For those who prefer a sweeter drink, add a small amount of simple syrup to the mix, adjusting to taste.
- Honey Spritz: Replace simple syrup with honey for a more natural sweetness and a richer flavor profile.
☑️ Expert Tips for Making the Perfect Aperol Spritz
- Try Different Proseccos: Experiment with different types of Prosecco—dry, extra dry, or brut—to find the balance that suits your taste.
- Use Chilled Ingredients: Start with chilled Prosecco and Aperol to keep your cocktail refreshing and crisp without needing too much ice.
- Measure Precisely: Follow the classic 3-2-1 ratio—3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part sparkling water or club soda—to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Add Prosecco First: Pour the prosecco first into the wine glass to preserve its bubbles and ensure a well-mixed cocktail.
- Don’t Overdo the Ice: Use a moderate amount of ice to keep your drink cool without diluting it too much. Large ice cubes (I just recently saw some at my local market)work best as they melt more slowly. But remember, this needs to be COLD!
- Garnish with a Fresh Orange Slice: For the best presentation and flavor, use a fresh orange slice to garnish. It enhances the citrus notes of the Aperol.
- Experiment with Sparkling Water: If you prefer a lighter drink, use sparkling water instead of club soda. It adds bubbles without altering the flavor.
- Choose a Large Wine Glass: Serve your Aperol Spritz in a large wine glass to give the drink plenty of space to breathe and for the aromas to develop.
- Serve Immediately: The Aperol Spritz is best enjoyed as soon as it's made to truly enjoy its fizz and freshness.
❓ FAQ'S
What alcohol is Aperol?
Aperol is a low-alcohol Italian aperitif with an alcohol content of 11%. It has a distinctive, slightly bitter taste with notes of orange, herbs, and rhubarb.
What does Aperol Spritz taste like?
An Aperol Spritz tastes light, refreshing, and slightly bitter with a hint of citrus from the Aperol. The prosecco adds a bubbly sweetness, and the sparkling water provides a crisp, clean finish.
Why is Aperol Spritz so popular?
Aperol Spritz is popular because it's a light, refreshing, and low-alcohol drink that’s perfect for warm weather or as an aperitif. Its vibrant orange color and simple, elegant preparation make it visually appealing and easy to enjoy.
Which Prosecco for Aperol Spritz?
A dry Prosecco, such as Brut or Extra Dry, is ideal for Aperol Spritz. It complements the slight sweetness of Aperol without making the drink overly sweet.
Which glass for Aperol Spritz?
Aperol Spritz is best served in a large wine glass. The wide bowl allows the drink to breathe, holds ice and garnishes, and enhances the flavors and aromas. This allows the drink to breathe and makes it easier to sip while enjoying the aromas. But use whatever glass you prefer!
How strong is an Aperol spritz?
One serving of our Aperol Spritz recipe is about as strong as a glass of wine. Spritz cocktails are generally lower in alcohol than most cocktails. Aperol is 11 per cent ABV, about the same as wine. Prosecco is the other alcohol in an Aperol Spritz, and its ABV around 11 per cent. Ice and soda water are the only non-alcoholic components, and they serve as a hydrating buffer. You can always add more soda water to lighten it up, or use slightly less Aperol if you want the drink to be less bitter and less sweet.
How to adjust your Aperol Spritz:
- More Bitter: Increase the amount of Aperol for a stronger, more bitter flavor.
- Sweeter: Add extra Prosecco or try a sweeter sparkling wine to balance the bitterness.
- Less Alcohol: Reduce the Aperol and prosecco, and add more soda water or sparkling water for a lighter version.
- More Citrus: Squeeze in fresh orange juice or garnish with extra citrus slices for a tangier kick.
Some other Italian summer recipes you'll love:
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📖 Recipe
Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe (3-2-1)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 ounces Prosecco Brut (DOC or DOCG)
- 2 ounces Aperol
- 1 ounce soda water club soda or sparkling water (I like to use Pellegrino)
- Orange slices
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass halfway with ice and add the Aperol.
- Slowly pour in the Prosecco, and then the soda water. Use a long spoon to give it a gentle swirl to combine.
- Garnish the rim with an orange slice and serve! Cin Cin!
Nutrition Disclaimer
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information presented below is an approximation and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Notes
- Amount: I used a jigger to measure the amount and it's 3 ounces of Prosecco (which is 90 ml), 2 ounces of Aperol (which is 60 ml)and 1 ounce of soda water (wich is 30 ml).
- Prosecco: The better the prosecco, the better the drink. rosecco: We recommend mid-range Brut or extra Brut Prosecco. Sweeter styles will make the cocktail too sweet.
- Soda water: I like to use Pellegrino, but you can use soda water, club soda, or whatever is your favorite sparkling water
- Taste and adjust: Aperol is a little bittersweet, and it could be less pronounced if you prefer. You can reduce the Aperol and add more Prosecco. If you enjoy the flavor of Aperol, you could even add another ounce. And to make it even less strong, add in more soda water.
Lana says
A Spritz is my go-to drink in Italy! I made this at home and pretended I'm in Florence again. CHEERS!