How to Make the Perfect Aperol Spritz
Bright, bubbly, and instantly recognizable, the Aperol Spritz has become one of the most beloved cocktails in the world, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, low in alcohol, and looks as good in your hand as it does on your feed.
Whether you're hosting friends or just want to feel a little European on a Tuesday night, this refreshing classic checks every box.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to make an Aperol Spritz at home, explain what makes Aperol so unique, and share a few fun variations that might surprise you. You’ll also find bar tool tips, flavor tips, and everything you need to spritz like a pro.
Let’s get into it.
MAKE COCKTAILS AT HOME LIKE A PRO (WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE)
Over the last few years, there’s been a major shift in how people enjoy cocktails. More and more of us are skipping overpriced drinks at the bar and learning to mix our favorites at home. It’s easier than ever, and honestly way more fun.
If you’re starting to build a home bar, now’s the time. You don’t need anything fancy, just a few solid, affordable tools that make things easier and cleaner.
You can grab the bar tools I use daily on Amazon — durable, simple, and great for any skill level.
And if you’re planning to make frozen Aperol Spritz cocktails (which I 100% recommend), you’ll want a blender that can handle ice like a beast without the $500 price tag. I use this Ninja blender and it’s been perfect for cocktails, smoothies, and everything in between.
WHAT IS APEROL?
Aperol is a bright orange Italian aperitif with a unique bittersweet flavor. It was created in 1919 by the Barbieri brothers in Padua, Italy, and was originally marketed as a low-alcohol drink for active, health-conscious adults.
Its flavor comes from a secret blend of botanicals, including bitter orange, rhubarb, and gentian root. While the exact recipe is a mystery, the taste is instantly recognizable. It’s citrusy, slightly herbal, and just bitter enough to be refreshing without being overpowering.
At only 11 percent ABV, Aperol is lower in alcohol than most spirits, which makes it ideal for daytime drinking or aperitivo hour. And that’s exactly how it was meant to be enjoyed — as a light, pre-dinner drink that wakes up the appetite.
WHY THE SPRITZ STYLE WORKS SO WELL
The beauty of the Aperol Spritz is in its simplicity. The drink follows the classic spritz structure — a combination of a bitter liqueur, sparkling wine, and soda water. In this case, Aperol brings the flavor, Prosecco brings the fizz, and soda water lightens it up.
It’s one of those cocktails that hits the sweet spot between refreshing, flavorful, and sessionable. You can sip it slowly on a hot day, enjoy it with a snack, or batch it for a party.
And because it's made with just three ingredients, it's nearly impossible to mess up.
HOW TO MAKE AN APEROL SPRITZ
The classic Aperol Spritz uses a simple 3-2-1 ratio:
3 parts Prosecco
2 parts Aperol
1 part soda water
Build it directly in a glass over ice, garnish with a slice of orange, and you're done. Some people reverse the Prosecco and Aperol ratio for a stronger, more bitter version. Others add a splash of orange juice for extra citrus.
The most important thing is to use plenty of ice and keep everything chilled. This drink is best served cold and stays crisp as it dilutes slowly.
BEST TIPS FOR A PERFECT SPRITZ
Use a dry Prosecco, not sweet or off-dry
Chill your Aperol and Prosecco before mixing
Serve in a large wine glass or stemmed goblet
Garnish with a fresh orange slice, not a peel
Don’t overdo the soda water, just a splash to finish
If you want to impress your guests or just make the experience feel elevated, pre-freeze your glasses or use crystal-clear ice cubes.
OTHER WAYS TO ENJOY APEROL
Aperol isn’t just for spritzes. It works surprisingly well in other cocktails and even simple combinations. Here are a few ideas to branch out with:
Frozen Aperol Spritz
Blend Aperol, Prosecco, a splash of soda water, and ice until smooth. Garnish with a slice of orange and serve with a straw. Perfect for hot summer days and backyard parties.
Aperol Tonic
A lighter, more bitter take. Combine Aperol with tonic water over ice and garnish with orange. It’s bright and super refreshing.
Aperol Negroni
Substitute Aperol for Campari in a traditional Negroni for a sweeter, less intense variation. Mix with gin and sweet vermouth in equal parts, stir with ice, and strain over fresh ice with an orange slice or twist.
Aperol Mimosa
Mix equal parts Aperol and Prosecco, then add a splash of fresh orange juice. It’s a playful brunch cocktail that’s a little more exciting than your typical mimosa.
These drinks all highlight different sides of Aperol — whether you want something sparkling, frozen, citrusy, or bold.
Aperol Spritz
A refreshing and easy-to-make Italian cocktail made with Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water. The Aperol Spritz is perfect for summer afternoons, brunches, or anytime you want a light, bubbly drink with a citrusy kick.
Ingredients
- 2oz Aperol
- 1oz Soda Water
- 3oz Prosecco
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- Pour ingredients over ice into a wine glass
- Garnish with orange slice
Nutrition Facts
Calories
242Carbs
48 gCholesterol
0 mgFat
0 gFiber
2 gNet carbs
46 gProtein
1 gSat. Fat
0 gSodium
6 mgSugar
24 gFAQ
What kind of Prosecco should I use for an Aperol Spritz?
Look for a dry or extra dry Prosecco, preferably labeled “Brut.” You want something light, crisp, and not overly sweet to balance the Aperol.
Can I make a non-alcoholic Aperol Spritz?
Yes. There are alcohol-free Aperol-style products like Lyre’s Italian Spritz or Wilfred’s that work great. Pair with non-alcoholic sparkling wine and soda water.
Why does my spritz taste too bitter?
It could be the ratio. Try adding more Prosecco or soda water, or even a splash of orange juice to mellow it out.
Can I batch Aperol Spritz for a group?
Absolutely. Mix Prosecco and Aperol in a 3:2 ratio and keep it chilled in a pitcher. Add soda water and ice to individual glasses right before serving.
Is Aperol gluten-free?
Yes, Aperol is considered gluten-free and suitable for people with gluten intolerance, though it's always best to check the label or manufacturer if you’re highly sensitive.
Final Thoughts
The Aperol Spritz has earned its spot as one of the most beloved cocktails in the world, and once you make one at home, you’ll see why. It’s easy, beautiful, and brings a little bit of Italian summer into any moment.
Whether you stick with the classic or try one of the variations above, you really can’t go wrong. Just chill your ingredients, grab some ice, and start spritzing.
Cheers!
