Find a few of our favorite Aperol cocktails, including refreshing spritzes, festive margaritas, and other boozy, delicious, mixed drinks.
In the world of apéritifs, Aperol has made its mark as a summertime spritz.
But this refreshing Italian aperitivo can do much more than provide pre-meal refreshments on a hot day.
Aperol’s low alcohol content means it can be used in all sorts of cocktails, both long and short, without completely taking over the drink.
And its light, slightly bitter flavor is the perfect complement to all sorts of spirits, from gin to vodka.
So, if you’re looking for some new cocktail inspiration that shifts the spotlight to Aperol, look no further.
I’ve done the grunt work for you and gathered up 25 of the best Aperol cocktails from some of my favorite bartenders, mixologists, and food bloggers.
#23 is a tasty treat, so be sure to keep an eye out for that one.
The signature bright orange color of Aperol is the perfect match for bourbon’s amber hue.
And these two ingredients come together beautifully in this beverage that’s equal parts rich and refreshing.
The added Prosecco in this recipe gives the drink a nice effervescence, while the oranges provide a bit of depth and complexity.
Cosmopolitan drinks used to be all the rage back in the ’90s, and for a good reason.
They’re tart, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
This Aperol version keeps the same citrusy flavor profile but swaps out the cranberry juice for Aperol, resulting in a drink that’s more bitter but a lot more interesting.
You can even bring out the martini glasses to really get into the ’90s spirit.
Tequila and Aperol might not be the first combination you think of, but trust me, it works.
Aperol’s bitterness helps to cut through the sweetness of the tequila, while the orange flavor complements the sugar syrup superbly.
Just follow the recipe, and you’ll be sipping on this boozy concoction all night long.
4. Aperol Sour
Whiskey sour may be the most popular sour cocktail out there, but it’s not the only one.
This Aperol Sour swaps out whiskey for gin and features lemon juice and egg whites to really give it that classic sour flavor.
And, of course, the addition of Aperol gives it that beautiful orange hue.
Top this with a foamy head of egg whites, and you’ve got a real winner.
You can’t write an article about Aperol cocktails without including the drink that made this aperitivo so popular in the first place.
The Aperol Spritz is incredibly simple, which is part of its appeal.
All you need is Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, and you’re good to go.
Add a squeeze and a slice of orange, and you’ve got a classic summertime refresher.
The juniper-forward flavor of gin pairs works seamlessly with the bitter, herbal notes of Aperol.
And when you add in some fresh grapefruit juice and a bit of simple syrup, you’ve got a well-rounded cocktail that you’ll want to sip on all day long.
Aperol and tequila come together once again in this delicious twist on the classic Paloma.
The addition of Aperol gives this drink vibrancy, while the Thai chile provides just the right amount of heat.
And, as always, fresh grapefruit juice ties everything together nicely.
Whether you like your boozy blends on the sweeter side or with a bit of a kick, this cocktail has got you covered.
This seasonal twist on the classic Aperol spritz is perfect for cooler weather.
It exchanges the soda water for hard apple cider, giving the drink a bit more of an autumnal flavor.
And, of course, it’s still got that signature bitterness from the Aperol that we all know and love.
Here’s another great seasonal twist on the Aperol spritz.
Only this time, it features all your favorite winter flavors.
Cranberry juice gives this drink a festive flavor, while the rosemary sprig provides a nice garnish and a bit of earthiness.
As always, the Aperol gives it that perfect bitter edge.
10. New Friend
If you want to branch out with your Aperol creation, this is just what you need.
Rye whiskey and Aperol might not be a combination you’re familiar with, but trust me, it works.
The rye provides a lovely base for the drink, while the Aperol adds just the right amount of bitterness.
Mix in Cocchi Americano, and you’ve got a cocktail that’s sure to please.
This smoky, sweet cocktail is perfect for anyone who loves Mezcal.
Adding Aperol helps cut through the sweetness of the honey, while the lime juice provides a lovely acidic contrast.
It’s a complex drink, but it’s well worth the effort.
Another smoky, sweet cocktail to try–but this time, featuring bourbon and maple syrup.
Maple syrup is a great way to add sweetness without making the drink too cloying, while the bourbon provides a lovely smoky flavor.
13. Aperol & Soda
This is the simplest cocktail on this list, but that doesn’t make it any less delicious.
Aperol and soda water is all you need for this refreshing drink.
It’s perfect for a hot summer day or any time you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a bite.
By now, you might be sensing a theme–Aperol and cider are just a great combination.
This time, we’re using pear cider to give the drink a bit of sweetness and an extra festive flavor.
Here’s a simple, but delicious, twist on the classic Gin and Tonic.
Aperol provides a lovely bitter contrast to the sweetness of the tonic, while the gin ties everything together nicely.
There’s no need to complicate things–sometimes, the drinks that are the easiest to make are the best.
Also known as Cinco De Cuatro Margarita, this delightful cocktail was created to celebrate the release of Arrested Development.
It’s a play on the classic Aperol spritz, and it uses elderflower cordial instead of soda water.
A huge celebration isn’t necessary to enjoy this delicious drink–although it certainly doesn’t hurt.
Grapefruit and Aperol are a match made in heaven, and this margarita is living proof.
It’s got all the tartness of a classic margarita, with an added bitter edge from the Aperol.
You won’t be able to resist taking another sip.
18. El Chipilo
For this beverage, think spicy margarita that’s perfect for any party.
It’s made with tequila, Aperol, tabasco, and lime juice, so it packs a bit of a punch.
But the addition of agave syrup helps to balance out the heat.
19. Aperol Americano
Traditionally, the Americano is made with Campari and sweet vermouth.
But this version switches out the Campari for Aperol, giving it a slightly different flavor profile.
It’s still got that signature bitterness, but it’s a bit lighter and more refreshing.
20. Unusual Negroni
Here’s another take on a well-known beverage, as it is aptly named.
This cocktail features Aperol, gin, and Lillet Blanc, which is a French aperitif wine.
It’s a bit sweeter than a traditional negroni, but it still has that lovely bitter edge.
21. Fade To Pink
This one’s pretty as a picture, and it tastes even better.
It’s made with Aperol and a red and pink gin, which gives it its beautiful hue.
Serve it on a girl’s night in or any time you’re in the mood for something special.
22. Nordic Summer
This combination is ideal for anyone with a taste for Scandinavian flavors.
The combination of botanical flavors with aquavit and Aperol makes it taste like a summer day in the Nordics.
A name like this has to be on a list of Aperol cocktails, right?
It’s got all the familiar flavors–bourbon, amaro, and lemon juice–and Aperol.
But it’s the addition of Aperol that gives this cocktail its unique flavor.
This cocktail is as fun to make as it is to drink.
It’s a play on a classic piña colada, but with the addition of Aperol.
The result is a drink that’s equal parts sweet, tart, and tropical.
25. Aperol Cocktail
The name may not be very creative, but this cocktail is guaranteed to please.
It’s got all the classic ingredients–Aperol, rum, pineapple, and lime juice–what could be better?
You’ll get sour, sweet, and boozy all in one delicious beverage.
The bottom line
No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s an Aperol cocktail out there that will hit the spot.
With its easily recognizable orange color and bitter-sweet flavor, it’s no wonder that this Italian aperitif has become so popular.
So next time you’re looking to mix things up, be sure to give one of these Aperol cocktails a try.
There’s sure to be one that’s perfect for you.
Have fun bringing out your inner mixologist!
EASY Aperol Cocktails
Find a few of our favorite Aperol cocktails, including refreshing spritzes, festive margaritas, and other boozy, delicious, mixed drinks.
Ingredients
- Bourbon Aperol Cocktail
- Aperol Cosmopolitan
- Aperol Tequila Cocktail
- Aperol Sour
- Aperol Spritz
- Aperol Gin Cocktail With Grapefruit
- Spicy Aperol Paloma Cocktail
- Autumn Aperol Spritz
- Winter Aperol Spritz
- New Friend
- Aperol Cocktail With Mezcal & Honey Simple
- Maple Bourbon Aperol Spritz
- Aperol & Soda
- Aperol Pear Cider Spritz
- Aperol Tonic Cocktail
- Aperol & Elderflower Margarita
- Aperol Grapefruit Margarita
- Chipilo
- Aperol Americano
- Unusual Negroni
- Fade To Pink
- Nordic Summer
- Paper Plane Cocktail
- Pineapple Princess
- Aperol Cocktail
Instructions
- Find your favorite recipe from our Aperol Cocktails list.
- Gather all the ingredients needed.
- Start making and make us proud!