This take on a classic Italian Aperol Spritz is a bubbly, orange-flavored cocktail that’s light and fizzy with a slight bitter edge that finishes with the sweetness of blood orange soda. It’s the perfect weekend libation when you want to do a bit of day drinking, but don’t want the intoxication that goes along with it.
I drank more than my fair share of aperol spritz cocktails while vacationing in Venice. I loved them! I continued my obsession while living in Houston and my favorite restaurant, Brasserie 19, would serve them. A great Sunday afternoon with my girlfriends would include the Brasserie 19’s deviled eggs and a few Aperol spritzes. Yum.
I had forgotten how delicious these cocktails were until I noticed my favorite restaurant posting their Aperol spritz on Instagram. Needless to say, it flung a craving on me and I had to indulge.
WHAT IS IN AN APEROL SPRITZ?
- Aperol liquor
- Prosecco – its a matter of taste of how sweet you want your prosecco
- Club soda or blood orange soda
- Orange slices as a garnish
A classic Aperol spritz is half Aperol and half prosecco, which is a bit strong for a daytime cocktail. Most recipes add a splash of club soda.
In preparing to make this recipe, I came across a variation from my friend and fellow blogger, Allison from CelebratingSweets.Com using blood orange soda. I was intrigued and beyond excited. Let me tell you, she is brilliant and this addition makes for the best combination of sweet, and tangy, with just a hint of a bitter bite. I’m a convert. Thank you, Allison!!
APPETIZERS TO ENJOY WITH YOUR ITALIAN APEROL SPRITZ
- Goat Cheese Caprese Bruscetta
- Glazed Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings
- Pickled Deviled Eggs
- Crispy Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
Add a few additional cocktail options for a party to remember. Here are a few ideas:
PrintITALIAN APEROL SPRITZ
This Italian Aperol Spritz is a perfect brunch cocktail. Aperol, prosecco, and blood orange soda make a cocktail that is sweet, tangy, with a hint of bitterness. Delicious.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Starters - Cocktails
- Method: Stir
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
1 part Aperol liqueur
2 parts Prosecco
1 part Blood orange soda or club soda
Slices of fresh orange, for garnish
Instructions
Fill a white wine glass with ice.
Pour in the Aperol, Prosecco, and soda.
Place a slice of orange on the rim of the glass.
Enjoy!