Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe (Easy Italian Cocktail)
Few cocktails are as refreshing, elegant, and easy to make as a Classic Aperol Spritz. This iconic Italian cocktail combines Aperol, Prosecco, and club soda to create a light, bubbly drink that's perfect for warm afternoons, summer evenings, and happy hour gatherings.
With its beautiful orange color, refreshing citrus notes, and crisp bubbles, the Aperol Spritz has become a favorite cocktail around the world. This version strikes a delicious balance between the bittersweet flavor of Aperol and the sparkling sweetness of Prosecco, creating a drink that's incredibly refreshing and easy to sip.
Whether you're hosting friends, enjoying a backyard dinner, or simply relaxing on the patio, this classic Italian cocktail is always a good choice.
Why You'll Love This Aperol Spritz
Ready in just minutes
Light, bubbly, and refreshing
Perfect for summer entertaining
Made with just a few simple ingredients
Beautiful and easy to garnish
Beginner-friendly
A classic Italian cocktail
Classic Aperol Spritz
This classic Aperol Spritz combines Aperol, Prosecco, and club soda for a refreshing Italian cocktail that's light, bubbly, and perfectly balanced. Easy to make in just minutes, it's the ultimate drink for patios, happy hours, summer gatherings, and warm-weather entertaining.
Category: Drinks, Cocktails
Cuisine: Italian
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
1½ ounces Aperol
3–4 ounces Prosecco
1½ ounces club soda
Ice
Orange slice or orange twist, for garnish
How to Make an Aperol Spritz
1. Fill the Glass
Fill a wine glass or large cocktail glass generously with ice.
2. Add the Aperol
Pour the Aperol directly over the ice.
3. Add the Club Soda
Pour in the club soda.
4. Add the Prosecco
Slowly pour in the chilled Prosecco to help preserve the bubbles.
5. Garnish and Serve
Gently stir just once or twice to combine. Garnish with an orange slice or orange twist and serve immediately.
What Does an Aperol Spritz Taste Like?
An Aperol Spritz is lightly sweet, slightly bitter, citrusy, and wonderfully refreshing. The Aperol brings bright orange and herbal notes, while the Prosecco adds bubbles and subtle sweetness. Club soda lightens the cocktail, giving it a crisp and refreshing finish.
It's a delicious balance of bitter, sweet, citrusy, and bubbly flavors.
Tips for the Best Aperol Spritz
Use plenty of ice to keep the cocktail cold and refreshing.
Chill your Prosecco before making the cocktail for the best flavor and texture.
Add the Prosecco slowly to help preserve the carbonation.
Don't over-stir. A gentle stir is all you need to combine the ingredients without losing too many bubbles.
Serve immediately while the cocktail is cold and sparkling.
Use a fresh orange slice or twist for a classic presentation and an extra touch of citrus flavor.
When to Serve an Aperol Spritz
The light and refreshing flavor of an Aperol Spritz makes it perfect for:
Summer parties
Patio happy hours
Poolside lounging
Backyard cookouts
Brunch
Date nights
Dinner parties
Warm-weather gatherings
It's especially great as an aperitif before dinner or as a refreshing drink to enjoy on a sunny afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aperol?
Aperol is an Italian aperitif known for its bright orange color and bittersweet citrus flavor, with herbal notes that give the Aperol Spritz its signature taste.
Can I use sparkling wine instead of Prosecco?
Yes! While Prosecco is traditional, another dry sparkling wine can be used if that's what you have available. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly depending on the wine you choose.
Why is an Aperol Spritz so popular?
The Aperol Spritz is popular because it's refreshing, bubbly, visually appealing, and simple to prepare. Its combination of bittersweet Aperol, sparkling wine, and club soda makes it an easy-drinking cocktail that's especially popular during warmer months.
What kind of glass should I use for an Aperol Spritz?
A large wine glass is the traditional choice, but you can also use a large cocktail glass or stemmed glass that has enough room for ice and the sparkling ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Aperol Spritz Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With Aperol, Prosecco, club soda, and a fresh orange garnish, this cocktail delivers the perfect balance of citrus, bubbles, and refreshing flavor.
Whether you're enjoying one on a sunny patio, serving it at brunch, or sipping it during happy hour, an Aperol Spritz is a classic for a reason.