12 BEST EASY APEROL COCKTAILS TO BRIGHTEN ANY OCCASION

If you love an Aperol Spritz and want to explore more ways to enjoy this vibrant liqueur, you’re in for a treat. These 12 Aperol cocktail recipes are fun, refreshing, and perfect for just about any occasion.

Aperol has become incredibly popular in the U.S. in recent years, thanks to the rise of the iconic Aperol Spritz—a light, bubbly drink made with 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda water. This simple 3-2-1 formula was part of a successful marketing campaign by the Campari Group in the early 2000s and has since become a worldwide favorite.

But Aperol is more than just a one-drink wonder. This Italian aperitif is made from rhubarb and other botanicals, giving it a uniquely bittersweet flavor that pairs beautifully with citrus and a variety of spirits.

From sparkling spritzes and fruity blends to gin and tequila twists, this list features 12 delicious ways to enjoy Aperol beyond the classic. There’s something here for every palate!

1. Classic Aperol Spritz

This iconic Italian aperitif is a must-try. The vibrant orange hue and bittersweet flavor are perfectly balanced with Prosecco and a splash of soda water. Its refreshing nature makes it ideal for sipping on a warm afternoon. Garnish with an orange slice for an extra touch of citrusy aroma and visual appeal. It’s simple, elegant, and utterly delightful. Read the full recipe

2. Aperol Margarita

Give the classic margarita a zesty twist by incorporating Aperol. The bittersweet orange notes of Aperol beautifully complement the tequila and lime juice, adding a layer of complexity to this beloved cocktail. A salt rim enhances the flavors, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter. It’s an exciting and refreshing take on a familiar favorite.Read the full recipe

3. Aperol and Gin Sour

For those who enjoy a more spirit-forward cocktail, the Aperol Gin Sour is a fantastic choice. The botanical notes of gin mingle beautifully with the bittersweetness of Aperol and the tartness of lemon juice. Egg white (optional) adds a silky smooth texture and a frothy top, making it a sophisticated and satisfying drink.Read the full recipe

4. Aperol Negroni Sbagliato

“Sbagliato” means “mistaken” in Italian, and this delightful twist on the classic Negroni replaces gin with Prosecco. The result is a lighter and fizzier cocktail that retains the bittersweet complexity of Campari and sweet vermouth, beautifully enhanced by Aperol’s orange notes. It’s an elegant and easy-to-drink option for any summer gathering.Read the full recipe

5. Aperol Paloma

Give your traditional Paloma a vibrant makeover with Aperol. The grapefruit soda’s refreshing tartness pairs wonderfully with the bittersweet orange flavor of Aperol. A splash of tequila adds a kick, while a lime wedge provides a zesty finish. This combination creates a light, bubbly, and incredibly thirst-quenching summer cocktail.Read the full recipe

6. Aperol Americano

This simple yet sophisticated cocktail features the harmonious pairing of Aperol and sweet vermouth, topped with soda water. The bittersweet and herbal notes create a refreshing and low-alcohol option perfect for leisurely summer afternoons. Garnish with an orange slice or twist to accentuate the citrusy aroma and enjoy its understated elegance.Read the full recipe

7. Rosé Aperol Spritz

Elevate the classic Aperol Spritz by swapping Prosecco for a dry rosé wine. This variation adds a delicate fruity note and a beautiful blush color to the drink. The bittersweet Aperol complements the crispness of the rosé, creating a sophisticated and wonderfully refreshing summer sipper. Garnish with a grapefruit slice for a slightly different citrus profile.Read the full recipe

8. The Ultimate Aperol Sour

This variation on the classic sour adds depth and complexity with the inclusion of orange bitters. The bittersweet Aperol is balanced by fresh lemon juice, while the bitters enhance the citrusy notes and add a subtle spicy undertone. An egg white (optional) provides a smooth, velvety texture, making it a truly delightful and well-rounded cocktail.Read the full recipe

9. Aperol  Tonic

For a super simple yet refreshing summer drink, combine Aperol with tonic water. The quinine in the tonic enhances the bittersweetness of the Aperol, creating a light and bubbly highball that’s incredibly easy to make. A wedge of orange or grapefruit adds a burst of citrus and makes it the perfect choice for a quick and satisfying refreshment.Read the full recipe

10. Elderflower Aperol Spritz Recipe

Add a touch of floral elegance to your Aperol Spritz with St-Germain elderflower liqueur. The delicate floral notes of St-Germain beautifully complement the bittersweet orange of Aperol and the bubbles of Prosecco. This creates a sophisticated and aromatic cocktail that’s perfect for special summer occasions. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a lime wheel for an extra layer of freshness.Read the full recipe

11. Aperol Soda with Mint

Keep it incredibly light and refreshing with a simple mix of Aperol and soda water, elevated with fresh mint. The bright, herbaceous notes of mint perfectly complement the bittersweet citrus of Aperol, creating a wonderfully thirst-quenching and aromatic drink. Gently muddle a few mint leaves in the glass before adding the Aperol and soda for maximum flavor infusion.Read the full recipe

12. Frozen Aperol Slushie

Beat the summer heat with a frosty and vibrant Frozen Aperol Slushie. Blend Aperol with Prosecco, orange juice, and ice until smooth and icy. This frozen treat retains the signature bittersweet orange flavor of Aperol in a fun and refreshing format. Garnish with an orange slice and enjoy this delightful adult slushie on a hot day.Read the full recipe