As a bartender, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to add to my repertoire. One ingredient that has caught my attention lately is Aperol.
This Italian liqueur has a unique flavor profile that can add depth and complexity to any cocktail. It has a bittersweet taste with notes of orange, rhubarb, and herbs, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of drinks.
Aperol is a relatively new addition to the cocktail world, having been created in 1919. It was originally marketed as an aperitif, meant to stimulate the appetite before a meal.
However, it soon became popular as a mixer in cocktails, particularly in Italy. Today, Aperol is used in many classic cocktails, as well as newer creations.
What I love about Aperol is that it can be used in both sweet and savory drinks. It pairs well with citrus, berries, and other fruits, as well as herbs like thyme and rosemary.
Aperol can also balance out the sweetness of other liqueurs, such as triple sec or peach schnapps.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite Aperol Cocktail recipes.
From classic drinks like the Aperol Spritz to newer creations like the Aperol Margarita, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and add some variety to your cocktail menu. So grab a bottle of Aperol and let's get mixing!
1. Aperol Cocktail
The Aperol Cocktail, also known as the Amalfi, is a modern twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. This cocktail combines Aperol with white rum, lime, and pineapple juice to create a sweet and tart flavor with a subtle bitterness.
The bright orange color of Aperol adds a pop of color to the drink, making it perfect for any party or nightcap. This cocktail is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great option for those who want to try something new without breaking the bank. If you're a fan of Aperol, this cocktail is a must-try.
2. Frothy Aperol Sour
The Frothy Aperol Sour is a unique and refreshing cocktail that combines Aperol's slightly bittersweet orange and rhubarb flavors with blood orange, lemon juice, and a frothy egg white to create a silky and frothy texture. The egg white creates a beautiful creamy, white foam on top of the cocktail that has a silky texture, making it a delight to sip on.
This cocktail is perfect for every occasion from the hot summer holidays to the cozy winter holidays, like Christmas and New Year's. If you're looking to add some variety to your regular cocktail menu, this Aperol Sour recipe is a must-try. The cocktail is a versatile and fun drink that is sure to impress your guests.
3. Aperol Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The Aperol Cosmopolitan Cocktail is a modern twist on the classic Cosmopolitan recipe. The vibrant color of the drink comes from the Italian aperitivo Aperol, a bright-red bittersweet liqueur based on oranges and several herbs. The addition of lime juice provides a tart bite that balances out the bitterness of the Aperol.
This cocktail is perfect for those who want to class up their cocktail game and move away from the traditional Cosmopolitan recipe. The Aperol Cosmopolitan Cocktail is a refreshing and sophisticated drink that is sure to impress any guest.
4. Aperol and Soda
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make Aperol cocktail? Look no further than the Aperol and Soda. This low-alcohol drink is perfect for sipping throughout a pool day or enjoying while you are making dinner.
With a bittersweet flavor that pairs perfectly with bubbly club soda, this two-ingredient cocktail is a great option for those who want a simple yet tasty drink. The addition of fresh lemon juice gives it a zesty kick, making it the perfect summer cocktail. If you're a fan of Aperol, you'll love this easy and refreshing Aperol and Soda cocktail.
5. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet and bitter flavors, made with a combination of prosecco, Aperol, and soda. It's typically garnished with a slice of orange and is perfect for summer sipping.
If you're new to Aperol, be warned that it can be a bit bitter, but adding a splash of blood orange soda can sweeten it up. Overall, it's a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that transports you to a sunny Italian paradise.
6. Aperol Tonic Cocktail
The Aperol Tonic Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for warm summer days. This cocktail is a unique twist on the classic Aperol Spritz, combining the sweet and bitter orange flavor of Aperol with the crisp taste of tonic water.
The addition of a splash of orange juice and a slice of orange as a garnish bring out the fruity notes of the Aperol, making it a well-balanced and flavorful drink. The Aperol Tonic Cocktail is best served on the rocks and stirred, making it an effortless cocktail to make for a crowd. If you are a fan of Aperol, this cocktail is a must-try.
7. Aperol Sour
The Aperol Sour is a delightful and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. With its bright citrus notes and frothy topping, this Aperol-gin cocktail is sure to impress. The Aperol imparts a distinctive bittersweet flavor that makes for a sophisticated cocktail, while the London dry gin adds a lovely kick.
The fresh-squeezed lemon juice and homemade simple syrup give the cocktail a bright and zesty flavor, and the egg white creates a velvety topping that is both beautiful and delicious. This cocktail is perfect for summer sipping, but it's also fancy enough to serve as a special-occasion signature cocktail. If you're looking for a tasty Aperol-forward cocktail that's a bit different from the usual, the Aperol Sour is definitely worth a try.
8. Aperol Spritz Cocktail
The Aperol Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and vibrant drink that has become a popular summer staple. Made with Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda, this Italian cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet and bitter flavors. The bright orange color and sliced orange garnish make it a visually appealing drink that is sure to impress your guests.
The Aperol Spritz Cocktail is a great choice for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxing afternoon by the pool. With its unique taste and easy-to-make recipe, it's no wonder that this cocktail has become a favorite among cocktail lovers. So, if you're looking for a refreshing and delicious drink to enjoy this summer, give the Aperol Spritz Cocktail a try!
9. New Year's Eve Aperol Spritz
If you're looking for a cocktail that will make your New Year's Eve celebration extra special, look no further than the Aperol Spritz. Made with Aperol, an Italian aperitif with a delicious orange flavor, and sparkling Prosecco or Champagne, this cocktail is sure to be a hit with your guests.
The bright orange color and unique blend of bitterness and sweetness make it a standout among other cocktails. In fact, it's become a go-to drink for many people, whether they're out at a bar or hosting a party at home. So if you want to ring in the new year with a drink that's sure to impress, give the Aperol Spritz a try.
10. Elderflower Aperol Spritz
The Elderflower Aperol Spritz is a refreshing twist on the classic Aperol cocktail. This cocktail combines the light and bitter taste of Aperol with the delicate floral notes of elderflower liqueur. The addition of sparkling wine gives it a bubbly and refreshing finish that is perfect for any occasion.
The subtle floral aroma and citrusy bitterness of Aperol make this cocktail a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a light and easy cocktail that will transport you to the sunny beaches of Italy, the Elderflower Aperol Spritz is the perfect choice.
11. Prosecco and Aperol Cocktail
The Prosecco and Aperol Cocktail is a refreshing and sophisticated drink that blends sparkling white wine with Aperol, a classic Italian aperitif infused with bitters, orange, and herbal flavors.
The result is a slightly sweet, citrusy, and bitter flavor profile that is perfect for summer. The subtle effervescence adds a touch of elegance, making it a perfect aperitif to enjoy before dinner.
12. Aperol Sour Cocktail
The Aperol Sour Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a fun and refreshing drink. This bright pink cocktail is made with a shot of London Dry gin, Aperol, fresh citrus juice, and a homemade simple syrup.
The addition of egg white creates a smooth and velvety texture that is sure to impress. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion and is easy to make in under five minutes. If you're looking for a unique and delicious Aperol cocktail, the Aperol Sour is definitely worth trying.
13. Part Time Lover
The Part Time Lover is a refreshing Aperol cocktail that is perfect for warm summer evenings. Made with Patron Silver tequila, Aperol, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice, this cocktail has a sweet, tart, and juicy flavor with just a hint of bitterness from the Aperol.
Aperol, an Italian aperitif, is a key ingredient in this cocktail and adds a strong orange/mandarin flavor to the drink. If you're a fan of Aperol Spritz, you'll definitely love this tequila cocktail. The Part Time Lover is a perfect balance of flavors and is sure to become a new favorite for those who enjoy a refreshing and citrusy cocktail.
14. Aperol Gin Cocktail
The Aperol Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and citrusy drink that is perfect for summer days. Made with Aperol, premium gin, lime juice, simple syrup, soda water, and a lime slice, this cocktail is a delicious twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. Aperol, an Italian bitter apéritif, is the star of the show with its vibrant orange hue and unique blend of gentian, rhubarb, and cinchona.
The addition of gin adds a botanical note that complements the bitter sweetness of the Aperol. This cocktail is easy to make and perfect for sipping on a sun-soaked patio or dock. Whether you're planning a trip to Italy or just want to transport yourself there through your taste buds, the Aperol Gin Cocktail is a must-try.
15. Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz
The Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz is a refreshing and festive cocktail that is perfect for winter. This Italian drink is typically served as an aperitif and is made with Aperol liquor, Prosecco, and a splash of sparkling water. For this version, cranberry and orange juice are added to give it a winter twist.
The cranberry and orange flavors pair perfectly with the citrus flavor of Aperol, making it a delicious and easy-to-drink cocktail. With a sprig of rosemary and fresh cranberries for garnish, this cocktail is not only tasty but also visually appealing. If you're looking for a refreshing winter cocktail that is easy to make and sure to impress, the Cranberry Orange Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try.
16. Aperitini
Aperitini is a refreshing and potent cocktail that combines the bitter flavors of Campari and Aperol with the smokiness of Tequila. This modern take on the classic Aperol Spritz is perfect for lovers of bitter cocktails like the Negroni and Americano.
The addition of Prosecco and fresh orange or mandarin juice balances out the bitterness, while a dash of sugar syrup can be added for those who prefer a sweeter taste. Garnished with a slice of orange and sprig of rosemary, Aperitini is a must-try for anyone looking to experiment with new cocktail recipes.
17. Paloma Aperol Spritz
The Paloma Aperol Spritz is a refreshing summer cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. This cocktail is made with Aperol, grapefruit soda, tequila, fresh lime juice, and topped with prosecco. Aperol is an aperitif that has a sweet but slightly bitter taste, which makes it perfect as a mixer, especially when paired with Prosecco or Champagne.
The addition of tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice gives this cocktail a Mexican twist, making it a popular choice in Mexico. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Paloma Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a try.
18. Aperol Punch
The Aperol Punch is a visually stunning winter cocktail made with gin, lime juice, blood orange juice, orange juice, grapefruit juice, muddled rosemary, bitters, and a splash of soda.
The bright orange Aperol adds a pop of color and a hint of bitterness to the sweet and tart drink. It's perfect for any festive occasion and a great way to enjoy blood oranges while they're in season.
19. Aperol Tequila Twist
The Aperol Tequila Twist is a unique and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any season. It combines the bitter and mellow flavors of Aperol with the tangy citrus flavors of grapefruit and orange juice, and the sweetness of maple syrup.
The addition of tequila gives the drink a kick without being overpowering. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting, and it's sure to impress at any party or gathering. The Aperol Tequila Twist is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast looking for a delicious and colorful drink.
20. Grapefruit Spritz Cocktail
The Grapefruit Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and bubbly twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. Made with Prosecco, grapefruit juice, and Aperol, this cocktail is perfect for a festive brunch or a date night with your significant other. The addition of grapefruit gives the cocktail a tangy and bright flavor, while the Aperol adds a hint of bitterness and herbal notes.
The cocktail is low in alcohol, making it a great option for brunch. To finish it off, a simple slice of grapefruit zest is added for a fragrant citrus aroma. Overall, the Grapefruit Spritz Cocktail is a fun and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for any occasion.
21. Aperol Negroni
The Aperol Negroni is a delightful spin on the classic Negroni cocktail, perfect for those who love bittersweet flavors. Made with Italian bitters, this gin and Aperol cocktail boasts a vivid orange hue and a punchy taste that is less intensely bitter than the classic Negroni.
The inclusion of Aperol, a bitter apéritivo made from gentian, rhubarb, and cinchona, adds a fruity sweetness that balances the complex bittersweet flavors of the drink. This cocktail is easy to make and is a great introduction to the world of bittersweet cocktails. It's definitely worth trying for those who want to explore new flavors and add some color to their cocktail collection.
22. Paper Plane
The Paper Plane is a lesser-known Aperol cocktail that packs a punch. Made with equal parts Aperol, bourbon, Amaro, and fresh lemon juice, it has a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.
Invented by bartender Sam Ross in 2007, it's a modern take on the classic pre-prohibition cocktail, The Last Word. If you're looking for a new Aperol cocktail to try, the Paper Plane is a must-try.
23. Contessa Cocktail
The Contessa Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. This Aperol-based cocktail has a citrusy flavor with just a hint of bitterness, making it a perfect before-dinner drink. Developed by John Gertsen, a bartender at Boston’s Drink, the Contessa Cocktail is a lighter and less bitter version of the classic Negroni.
Aperol, with its lower ABV and stronger citrus flavor, replaces the bitter Campari in this recipe. This cocktail is perfect for those who find the classic Negroni too bitter. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-drink Aperol cocktail, the Contessa Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
24. Classic Aperol Spritz
The Classic Aperol Spritz is a refreshing low-alcohol cocktail that originated in Turin, Italy. It's made with Aperol, dry prosecco, and sparkling water, garnished with a slice of lemon or orange.
Its slightly bitter taste is balanced with a hint of rhubarb and citrus flavor, making it perfect for hot summer days. This easy-to-make cocktail is a crowd-pleaser and a gateway to the family of Amari liqueurs.
25. The Grape Gatsby
"The Grape Gatsby" is a delightful Aperol cocktail that is sure to impress. Created by Lukas Bernleithner for the rooftop bar Der Dachboden at 25hours Hotel in Vienna, this cocktail is a sophisticated twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. The combination of Aperol and sparkling wine creates a beautiful jewel-toned drink that is layered and complex.
The addition of verjus and grapefruit juice provides a well-rounded tartness, while sweet vermouth and grapefruit bitters add a gentle sweetness and bitterness. The name of the cocktail, "The Grape Gatsby," is both catchy and intriguing, making it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast. Overall, "The Grape Gatsby" is a happy-making cocktail that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
26. Winter Aperol Spritz With Sloe Gin
The Winter Aperol Spritz With Sloe Gin is a seasonal take on the classic Italian spritz. This cocktail is made with sloe gin, a gin-based liqueur made from sloe berries, which adds a plummy flavor that pairs well with the bitterness of Aperol. The cocktail is garnished with rosemary, a slice of orange, and raspberries or blackberries, which adds a festive touch.
This winter Aperol spritz is perfect for autumn and winter celebrations, from Halloween to New Year's Eve. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to serve at your next party, the Winter Aperol Spritz With Sloe Gin is definitely worth a try.
