An Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail that’s fruity, bubbly, and not too sweet! This refreshing cocktail is easy to make at home with just three essential ingredients. Of course, you can always garnish with some orange slices to really send it over the top!

An aperol spritz is garnished with an orange slice and two straws.


Aperol Spritz

When it’s hot outside, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing summer cocktail! I have a pretty long list of favorite cocktail recipes, and this classic aperol spritz recipe is near the top of that list. It’s fruity, bubbly, refreshing, and not too sweet! When made with just three key ingredients, a proper aperol spritz tastes like orange summertime goodness in a glass.

So, what’s needed to make this aperol spritz recipe? Prosecco, aperol, and club soda. Yes, that’s really it! I also like to slice up a fresh orange and garnish my glasses with it just to give the cocktail a little extra fruity flair. The key to this Italian cocktail is the simplicity of it. With that being said, though, I did include some variations below that you may be interested in. Just scroll for more info!

Before summer is officially over (it’ll be fall before you know it), make sure to treat yourself to an aperol spritz. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, escaping to the beach house for a weekend or just craving some sunshine in a glass, this is the recipe for you! Each sip is like a little summer vacation to Italy… Even when you’re enjoying it from the comfort of your own living room. Cheers!

A bottle of prosecco is placed next to a bottle of aperol.

How to Make an Aperol Spritz

You’ll feel like quite the mixologist after stirring together this beauty! Skip over paying at the bar when you can make a classic aperol spritz in no time at your own kitchen counter.

  1. Make it cold. Grab a large wine glass and fill it with ice.
  2. Pour the ingredients. Make the glass half full with chilled prosecco. Top off the prosecco with aperol, then add a splash of club soda.
  3. Enjoy! Garnish with some orange slices, serve immediately, and enjoy!
Aperol is being poured into a glass filled with ice and prosecco.

Tips and Variations to Try

  • You can alter the sweetness. While I prefer using a dry prosecco to avoid a syrupy sweet drink, you can use a demi sec prosecco for a little added sweetness if you’d like. Still not sweet enough for you? Add a splash of simple syrup!
  • Swap the club soda. If you’d like some added flavor, consider swapping out the club soda for some flavored sparkling water. There are so many options out there, so get creative (while keeping in mind that you’ll want to compliment the orange aperol flavor).
  • Don’t use another spirit. Aperol is the only ingredient that’ll do! You should be able to easily locate a bottle at any liquor store. Don’t try to swap it with any other orange liqeuer.

Can I make aperol spritz ahead of time?

I don’t recommend making an aperol spritz ahead of time. As it goes with any bubbly cocktail, you want to serve it right after it’s been freshly poured. Waiting too long will make all of those delicious bubbles go away!

What does aperol spritz taste like?

This summery Italian cocktail is bubbly, refreshing, chilled, and fruity! It has lovely aromatic orange notes from the aperol which are complimented by fresh orange slices. The prosecco can make the drink sweeter or just more bubbly depending on which kind you choose to use. I recommend using a dry (brut) prosecco to enhance the flavor of the aperol without making everything too sweet.

Orange slices garnish a chilled glass of aperol spritz.

Sip on more of my favorite summertime cocktails!

For more easy summer drink ideas, follow us on Instagram and Facebook!

An aperol spritz is garnished with an orange slice and two straws.

Get the Recipe: Aperol Spritz Recipe

Refreshing and cool Aperol Spritz are easy to make at home with aperol, Prosecco and a splash of club soda. One sip will transport you to the coast of Italy!
No ratings yet

Ingredients

  • Ice
  • 1 bottle chilled Prosecco
  • 1 bottle chilled Aperol
  • 8 ounces club soda or flavored sparkling water/tonic
  • Orange slices, optional

Equipment

  • 4 large wine glasses

Instructions 

  • Fill a large wine glass with ice.
  • Pour the prosecco to fill the glass half full.
  • Add the Aprerol to the glass with half the amount of prosecco. (3 parts prosecco, 2 parts aperol)
  • Pour a splash of club soda, tonic or sparkling water to the glass.
  • Garnish with orange slices and serve immediately.

Video

YouTube video

Notes

Best if served soon after making.  
Calories: 297kcal, Carbohydrates: 9g, Protein: 0.3g, Sodium: 39mg, Potassium: 362mg, Sugar: 5g, Calcium: 44mg, Iron: 2mg