Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe

There’s no fooling around when it comes to making an Aperol Spritz. I follow the classic 3-2-1 ratio which is a “rule” for a reason. It creates the best Aperol Spritz, exactly like the ones I’ve had in Italy!

Effervescent, bittersweet, and citrusy, this bright red cocktail is just as delicious as it is stunning. Serve it just the way I enjoyed it in Italy, as an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink), alongside savory munchies like Caponata topped Crostini, Parmesan Crisps, and Marinated Olives.

For another beautiful Italian aperitivo that’s punchier yet still citrusy and bittersweet, my Negroni Recipe is an at-home bar menu staple too.

Aperol Spritz Ingredients

You only need 4 ingredients, plus ice, to make a classic Aperol Spritz! Here they are:

• Prosecco – look for “dry” or “brut” prosecco, which means it’s not sweet! Italian brut prosecco is the perfect option, adding crisp, slightly fruity bubbles.
• Aperol – Aperol is bittersweet and citrusy with that traditional, vibrant orange hue.
• Soda water – soda water (AKA sparkling water) adds neutral dilution and carbonation, making it more refreshing and less intense. San Pelligrino is the best option!
• Orange slices – orange slices are used as a garnish, adding a subtle fresh citrus aroma and of course, making your cocktail extra pretty!

How to Make an Aperol Spritz

Making an Aperol Spritz at home couldn’t be easier! Here are the steps with photos to help guide you:

Step 1: Fill a large wine glass three-quarters of the way with ice.

Step 2: Add prosecco, then Aperol, and then soda water.

Step 3: Stir twice.

Step 4: Garnish with oranges slices. Enjoy!

Variations

Change things up with these super cool variations:

• More boozy or less boozy: if you prefer a stronger Aperol Spritz, skip the soda water and add an extra ounce of prosecco. Want less booze? Use all soda water and skip the prosecco!
• Campari Spritz: instead of Aperol, try Campari which is a more intense and slightly more bitter option.
• Limoncello Spritz: trying swapping Aperol for Limoncello, creating a refreshing lemon version garnished with lemon wedges.
• Rosé Spritz: instead of prosecco, rosé adds berry notes and an even more intense red color.
• Olive garnish: sometimes in Venice, Italy, you’ll see an Aperol Spritz garnished with a cocktail pick stuffed with olives that cut through the cocktail’s sweetness. Castelvetrano olives are the best option!

What to Serve With Aperol Spritz

An Aperol Spritz is typically served as an aperitivo in Italy, meaning a before-dinner drink. Aperitivos (like the Aperol Spritz) are usually lower in alcohol, bitter and/or refreshing to stimulate the appetite! Here are some traditional cicchetti (small bites) to serve with these cocktails:

• Olives, like Marinated Olives
• Prosciutto and melon
• Cheese platter
• Bruschetta
• Crostini with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto or Ricotta Toasts
• Roasted nuts
• Caprese Salad
• Grilled veggies
• Roasted Chickpeas
• Potato chips

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If you’ve tried this Aperol Spritz Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please let me know in the comments below. I love hearing from you. Please consider leaving a 🌟 star rating while you are here!