3-Ingredient Aperol Spritz Recipe for Summer Cocktails

I ordered an Aperol Spritz every single day while I was in Italy, and now I make them at home all the time. They’re bubbly, bright, and effortless — just three ingredients and no special tools required.

If you want to experiment, try a strawberry variation or a non-alcoholic version for a zero-proof option. There are also plenty of other spritz ideas and a fun Aperol sour to try.

Classic Aperol Spritz cocktail with orange slice in wine glass over ice.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Simple to make, refreshing and delicious. Thank you for this recipe!”
— Sara

Why This Is My Go-To Aperol Spritz

  • Aperol dates back to the early 1900s and remains an iconic Italian aperitif.
  • This recipe stays classic: bubbly Prosecco, a splash of Aperol, and a touch of soda water.
  • I always serve mine over plenty of ice with a juicy orange slice — simple, fresh, and charming.
  • It’s perfect for golden-hour gatherings, backyard dinners, or a quick escape to an Amalfi Coast vibe at home.

Aperol Spritz Ingredients

Wine glass filled with ice and a bottle of Aperol.
  • Aperol — a bright orange apéritif that defines the spritz.
  • Prosecco — an Italian sparkling white wine for effervescence.
  • Club Soda — unflavored sparkling water to top and lighten the drink.
  • Orange Slice — the classic garnish that adds aroma and color.

Simple Steps to Making an Aperol Spritz

Pouring Aperol into a glass filled with ice.
Prosecco in an Aperol Spritz.
  1. Fill a large wine glass with ice.
  2. Pour in Aperol, add Prosecco, then top with a splash of club soda.
  3. Give it a gentle stir and garnish with a fresh orange slice.

That’s it — easy, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Eden’s Aperol Spritz Tips

Want it less bitter? Reduce the Aperol slightly and add a splash more Prosecco, or squeeze in a bit of fresh orange juice or simple syrup to soften the edge.

Prefer it lighter? Use 1 oz Aperol and top with extra club soda for a lower-alcohol spritz that’s still flavorful.

Make it extra bubbly: Chill the Aperol, Prosecco, and soda beforehand so you keep more fizz when pouring.

Serve with snacks: Aperol Spritz pairs beautifully with marinated olives, a cheese board, whipped ricotta, or crunchy chips — simple and elegant accompaniments.

Hosting a group? Set up a DIY spritz bar with ice, Aperol, chilled Prosecco, club soda, and garnishes so guests can build their own cocktails.

FAQs

What flavor is Aperol?

Aperol tastes bright and citrusy with a sweet start and a gentle herbal bitterness. It’s refreshing on its own and pairs beautifully with sparkling wine.

Is Aperol a wine or a liquor?

Aperol is a low-proof aperitif with about 11% ABV. It sits between wine and spirits in style: lighter than most liquors but higher than many wines.

Is Aperol the same as Campari?

No. Aperol is lighter, sweeter, and more citrus-forward. Campari is darker, much more bitter, and has a higher alcohol content. They each bring different profiles to cocktails.

What can I use instead of Aperol?

Substitutes include other Italian aperitifs like Cappelletti or Select Aperitivo, or try a mix of orange liqueur with a dash of bitters for a similar vibe.

How long does Aperol last once opened?

Aperol keeps well for months. For best flavor, aim to use it within 6–8 months of opening and store it capped in a cool, dark place.

What’s the difference between Aperol and Campari?

Aperol is lighter, sweeter, and citrus-led with an 11% ABV. Campari is more bitter, deeper red, and stronger (around 24% ABV). Use Aperol for a light spritz and Campari for bolder cocktails like a Negroni.

Close-up of fizzy Aperol Spritz with orange garnish on a summer table.

More Spritz Recipes

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If you try this Aperol Spritz, leave a comment — I love hearing your feedback.

Feeling inspired? Explore more brunch cocktails, gin cocktails, vodka recipes, and tequila drinks for more mixing ideas.

Aperol Spritz recipe.

Aperol Spritz

A simple, refreshing three-ingredient Aperol Spritz that’s perfect year-round. This classic cocktail is quick to assemble and delicious.
Prep:
2 mins
Cook:
0 mins
Total:
2 mins
Servings:
1 Cocktail

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces Aperol
  • 3 ounces Prosecco, chilled
  • 1 ounce Club soda
  • 1 Orange slice

Instructions

  • Fill a large wine glass with ice.
  • Add Aperol, then Prosecco, and top with club soda.
  • Gently stir and garnish with an orange slice. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Adjust the bitterness: Use less Aperol and more Prosecco or add fresh orange juice to sweeten.
  • Chill everything: Keep Aperol, Prosecco, and club soda cold to preserve bubbles.
  • Serve immediately: Assemble just before serving so the spritz stays fizzy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 Cocktail
Calories: 213 kcal
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 1 g
Fat: 1 g
Sugar: 22 g

Nutrition information is an approximation.



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