Aperol Spritz Recipe

This Aperol Spritz Recipe is a classic Italian cocktail made with Prosecco, Aperol, and club soda. With its refreshing bittersweet citrus flavor and bubbly finish, this easy 3-2-1 Aperol Spritz is perfect for brunch, aperitivo, parties, or a relaxing afternoon at home.

What Is an Aperol Spritz?

An Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail that has taken the world by storm, and for good reason! Originating in Northern Italy, it is a quintessential aperitivo—a pre-dinner drink meant to stimulate the appetite. It strikes the perfect balance between bitter, sweet, and bubbly. If you are looking for an authentic, refreshing, and incredibly easy-to-make cocktail, learning how to make an Aperol Spritz at home is a must.

Aperol Spritz Ratio: The Classic 3-2-1 Formula

There are many variations out there, but our classic Aperol spritz ratio is foolproof. We stick to the traditional 3-2-1 method: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda water. This ensures your drink is never too sweet, never too bitter, and perfectly effervescent every single time. It is the best Aperol spritz recipe to bring a taste of Italy right to your patio!

Aperol Spritz Recipe Ingredients

To make an authentic Aperol Spritz recipe, you only need three core ingredients, plus ice and a garnish. The quality of your ingredients matters, so here is what you need:

• Aperol: The star of the show! This vibrant orange Italian apéritif has notes of bitter orange, gentian, and rhubarb.
• Prosecco: Choose a dry (Brut) Prosecco to balance the sweetness of the Aperol. The best Prosecco for Aperol spritz is one that is crisp and not overly sweet.
• Club Soda: A splash of unflavored club soda or sparkling water adds the perfect amount of fizz without altering the flavor.
• Ice: Lots of it! A proper spritz is served ice cold.
• Orange Slice: For the classic garnish that enhances the citrus notes.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy bartending gear for this cocktail. Gather the following:

• Large Wine Glasses: A stemmed balloon or large wine glass is traditional and allows plenty of room for ice.
• Jigger or Measuring Cup: To accurately measure your 3-2-1 ratio.
• Bar Spoon or Long Spoon: For gently stirring the drink without losing the bubbles.

How To Make an Aperol Spritz at Home

Follow these simple steps for the perfect pour every time.

Step 1 | Fill the Glass with Ice

Start by filling your large wine glass at least halfway with ice cubes. More ice actually keeps the drink colder longer and prevents it from diluting too quickly.

Step 2 | Pour the Prosecco

Pour 3 ounces (or 3 parts) of chilled Prosecco over the ice. Pouring the Prosecco first helps it mix better with the Aperol, which is heavier and will naturally sink to the bottom.

Step 3 | Add the Aperol

Next, pour in 2 ounces (or 2 parts) of Aperol. You will immediately see that gorgeous, vibrant orange color mix with the sparkling wine.

Step 4 | Top with Soda Water and Garnish

Add a splash (about 1 ounce or 1 part) of club soda. Give the cocktail a very gentle stir with your bar spoon—just a quick swirl so you don’t kill the carbonation. Finally, garnish with a fresh orange slice and serve immediately.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Aperol Spritz

Keep these tips in mind to elevate your cocktail game:

• Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure your Prosecco and club soda are ice-cold before mixing. You can even chill your glasses for an extra frosty touch.
• Stick to the 3-2-1 Ratio: Memorize this classic Aperol spritz ratio (3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, 1 part soda) and you can easily scale the recipe up for a pitcher.
• Don’t Over-Stir: Prosecco loses its fizz quickly if agitated too much. One gentle pull from the bottom of the glass to the top is all you need.

Aperol Spritz Variations and Serving Ideas

While the classic is hard to beat, here are some fun ways to serve and enjoy your spritz:

1. The Venetian Way: Serve it alongside a bowl of salty potato chips or mixed olives. The saltiness pairs perfectly with the bitter-sweet drink.
2. With a Green Olive Garnish: In Venice, it is very common to garnish a spritz with a large, unpitted green olive on a pick alongside the orange slice.
3. Grapefruit Twist: Swap the orange slice for a ruby red grapefruit wheel for a slightly more tart flavor profile.
4. Pitcher Style: Making drinks for a crowd? Multiply the 3-2-1 ratio and build the cocktail in a large pitcher right before your guests arrive.
5. Rosemary Sprig: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary as a garnish for a beautiful, aromatic touch.
6. Low-Alcohol Version: If you want a lighter drink, increase the soda water and decrease the Prosecco slightly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

An Aperol Spritz is best enjoyed immediately after mixing to ensure maximum effervescence. You cannot make the cocktails ahead of time or store leftovers, as the Prosecco will go flat.

However, if you open a bottle of Prosecco and don’t use it all, immediately seal it with a high-quality champagne stopper. Store it upright in the refrigerator, and it should hold its carbonation for 1 to 2 days, ready for your next spritz!

Aperol Spritz FAQs

If you’re looking for the perfect savory pairing for your next Aperol Spritz, don’t miss our Applebee’s Bacon Cheese Wonton Tacos Recipe. These crispy wonton tacos are filled with a creamy, cheesy bacon mixture and make an irresistible appetizer to serve alongside a refreshing Aperol Spritz. Try the Applebee’s Bacon Cheese Wonton Tacos Recipe