How to Make a Classic Aperol Spritz

Aperol Spritz has become one of the most popular cocktails in the world, with a 35% increase in popularity over the past year. It’s no surprise—this bright orange, bubbly drink is refreshing, slightly bitter, and perfect for any occasion.

So if you're lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard brunch, or simply unwinding after a long day, a homemade Aperol Spritz is your ticket to a bar-quality cocktail with minimal effort. Plus, with just three main ingredients—Aperol, Prosecco, and sparkling water—it’s incredibly easy to make! In this easy Aperol Spritz recipe, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness, bitterness, and fizz. Let’s get mixing!

How to Make a Classic Aperol Spritz

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1 | Course: Drinks/Cocktails

Ingredients

• • Ice
  • 2 ounces Aperol (chilled)
  • 3 ounces Prosecco (chilled)
  • 1 ounce sparkling water
  • Garnish: A fresh orange slice and mint leaves for an extra touch of aroma and flavor.

Zulay Says: Use a high-quality dry Prosecco for the best balance of flavors. The dryness complements the sweetness of Aperol perfectly.

Instructions

Step 1. Fill a large wine glass or highball glass with plenty of ice. The more ice, the slower the dilution!

Step 2. Pour 2 ounces of Aperol over the ice. Give it a gentle stir to coat the ice and slightly chill the liqueur.

Step 3. Slowly add 3 ounces of chilled Prosecco to the glass. Pour gently to maintain its bubbles.

Step 4. Add 1 ounce of sparkling water to balance the drink and enhance its refreshing fizz.

Step 5. Squeeze a fresh orange slice into the drink and stir gently. Garnish with a slice of orange and a sprig of fresh mint leaves for an aromatic finishing touch.

Tips & Variations for the Best Aperol Spritz

1. Adjust the Bitterness

Prefer a stronger Aperol flavor? Increase the Aperol to 2.5 ounces.

Want it less bitter? Add an extra splash of Prosecco or sparkling water.

2. Swap the Sparkling Wine

No Prosecco? Try Champagne, Cava, or another dry sparkling wine for a similar taste.

For a budget-friendly version, a dry sparkling white wine works just as well.

3. Make It a Frozen Aperol Spritz

Blend Aperol, Prosecco, ice, and a little orange juice to create a slushy version of this classic drink—perfect for summer!

4. Try Different Garnishes

Swap the orange slice for grapefruit for a tangier twist.

Add a few pomegranate seeds for extra elegance.

A rosemary sprig gives a subtle herbal aroma.

Make Your Own Aperol Spritz Today!

This Aperol Spritz recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and bubbly. Whether you're making it for a summer party, a quiet evening, or a celebratory toast, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It takes just 5 minutes to make, with no bartending experience required!

So grab your ingredients, pour yourself a spritz, and enjoy a taste of Italy from the comfort of your home. Cheers!

Other Kitchen Tools You Need for the Perfect Cocktail

Making a flawless Aperol Spritz isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s also about using the right tools to get that bar-quality result at home. With these essential cocktail tools from Zulay Kitchen, you’ll mix, measure, and garnish like a pro:

• • Complete Bartender Kit – Everything you need to shake, stir, and impress. This all-in-one set includes a jigger, cocktail spoon, shaker, and more—perfect for both beginners and seasoned mixologists.
  • Citrus Juicer – Fresh orange juice makes all the difference. Our easy-to-use juicer lets you squeeze every drop with zero mess or effort.
  • Square Ice Cube Mold & Ice Ball Mold – Keep your drink chilled without fast melting. These molds create slow-melting, bar-style ice that looks sleek and keeps your spritz perfectly cold and balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aperol Spritz

What’s the best Prosecco for an Aperol Spritz?

Look for a dry (Brut) or extra-dry Prosecco to balance the sweetness of Aperol. Popular choices include La Marca Prosecco, Mionetto Prosecco, and Ruffino Prosecco.

Is Aperol Spritz gluten-free?

Yes! Aperol, Prosecco, and sparkling water are naturally gluten-free, making it a great cocktail option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make an alcohol-free Aperol Spritz?

Absolutely! If you're skipping alcohol but still want that signature bitter-orange flavor, you can easily make a non-alcoholic version of the classic Aperol Spritz. Replace Aperol with a non-alcoholic bitter aperitif such as Lyre’s Italian Spritz or Crodino, which both mimic the herbal and citrus notes of Aperol. For the sparkling element, opt for a non-alcoholic Prosecco or sparkling wine. 

How do I prevent an overly bitter taste?

If your Aperol Spritz is coming off too bitter for your taste, don’t worry—there are a few simple fixes. First, increase the amount of sparkling water or club soda to help mellow out the intensity of the Aperol. You can also add a splash of fresh orange juice to introduce some natural sweetness and balance. Some people even add a bit of simple syrup or honey for extra smoothness. Just remember, Aperol is supposed to have a slightly bitter edge—that’s what gives it its signature flavor—so it’s all about finding the balance that works for you.

What food pairs well with Aperol Spritz?

Aperol Spritz isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience, especially when paired with the right bites. Thanks to its bright, slightly bitter profile, it pairs wonderfully with salty, savory, and citrusy appetizers. Classic options include cheese platters with aged or creamy cheeses, briny olives, prosciutto-wrapped melon, and bruschetta with tomato and basil. 

Can I use Champagne instead of Prosecco?

Yes, you can definitely use Champagne in place of Prosecco for an Aperol Spritz, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Champagne tends to be drier and more complex, which can shift the flavor profile of your cocktail slightly. It also has finer bubbles and comes with a heftier price tag. Prosecco, on the other hand, is more fruit-forward, slightly sweeter, and its gentle bubbles make it a perfect match for Aperol’s zesty bitterness. So while Champagne can make your spritz feel extra fancy, Prosecco is still the best classic choice for that balanced, refreshing taste.