An Aperol Spritz made with just three simple ingredients — Aperol, Prosecco and soda — is the effortless summer cocktail you’ll reach for again and again. Serve it with an antipasto platter for an authentic Italian aperitivo experience.
The Aperol Spritz is my go-to summer drink. If you’ve ever holidayed in Italy and seen everyone sipping a bright orange cocktail, that was probably a Spritz. Ask for a “spritz” there and you’ll likely get this classic.
So what is Aperol exactly?
Aperol is an Italian aperitif made from bitter and sweet oranges, along with a blend of herbs and roots. Despite the word “bitter,” Aperol is pleasantly balanced — slightly savory, gently sweet — and pairs beautifully with sparkling wine.
What’s in an Aperol Spritz?
This cocktail relies on three primary ingredients: Aperol, Prosecco and soda water. You’ll also need plenty of ice and an orange slice for garnish.
A common ratio is 2 parts Aperol to 3 parts Prosecco, topped with a splash of soda. Half-fill a large wine glass with ice, pour in the Aperol, add the Prosecco, finish with soda, stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
How NOT to make an Aperol Spritz
Don’t substitute Prosecco with still white wine. Sparkling wine is essential to the Spritz’s texture and mouthfeel. If you’re out of Prosecco, use another sparkling wine such as Cava, but avoid still wines.
Food to go with your cocktail
- Easy marinated olives – 5 min recipe
- Fried sausage-stuffed olives
- Stracchino and sausage crostini
- Bruschetta al pomodoro
- Bagna Cauda (anchovy, garlic & butter dip)
- Rosemary focaccia with mozzarella
More Italian cocktails you might like
- Classic Campari Cocktail
- Pomegranate Spritz
- Limoncello Martini (Lemon Drop)
- Negroni Cocktail
- Peach Bellini
If you try this Aperol Spritz or any other recipe, please rate it and leave a comment to let me know how it turned out — I love hearing from readers.
Step by step photos above
Most recipes include photos, tips and sometimes video to help you get it right first time.
Aperol Spritz Cocktail
By Emily
Ingredients
- 2 parts (60ml/2 fl oz) Aperol
- 3 parts (90ml/3 fl oz) Prosecco, chilled
- 1 splash soda, chilled
- ice
- 1 slice orange
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass halfway with ice. Add the Aperol, pour in the Prosecco, then top with a splash of soda water.
- Stir gently, add a slice of orange and enjoy.
Notes
Tips
- Ensure the Prosecco and soda are well chilled before serving.
- If you don’t have Prosecco you can use another sparkling wine such as Cava, but avoid still white wine.
- A splash of tonic water adds a pleasant extra bitterness if you prefer.
- When in season, chopped strawberries added to the glass make a lovely variation.
- Use plenty of ice — this cocktail is best served cold.
Helpful info for all recipes
- I use extra virgin olive oil in recipes unless stated otherwise.
- When using canned or jarred tomatoes, I prefer Cirio or Mutti for best flavor.
- Vegetables listed are medium-sized unless noted.
- Recipes are tested using a fan (convection) oven.
- Nutrition information is calculated automatically and should be used as an approximation.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 2 g |
Sodium: 6 mg |
Potassium: 79 mg |
Sugar: 2 g |
Vitamin C: 7.4 mg |
Iron: 0.4 mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be treated as an approximation.
Did you try this recipe?
Leave a comment below!