20 Unique Aperol Recipes Beyond the Classic Spritz

These Aperol recipes go way beyond the classic spritz. From bold sippers and playful twists to citrusy desserts and cocktail-hour favorites, this collection shows just how versatile the iconic Italian aperitif really is. Think large batch party cocktails, easy mixed drinks, and even a cake that channels your favorite happy hour.

From vibrant spritzes to jello shots, boozy desserts, and drinks that lean more toward gin or vodka than prosecco, there’s something here for every kind of Aperol drinker. You’ll also find refreshing cocktails for warm days, fall Aperol spritzes for cooler nights, and enough garnish inspiration to carry you straight through your next gathering.

Aperol Isn’t Just for Cocktails

Most people stop at the spritz, but this roundup goes way beyond the basics. You’ll find classic Italian cocktails, vodka cocktails with a bitter-citrus edge, and even a fall Aperol spritz that leans into cozy. But it doesn’t stop there.

Aperol also shines in jello shots, cake glaze, BBQ sauce, and marinades — making it a surprise player in liqueur recipes that don’t even require a shaker. These ideas work for small gatherings or big-batch pours, and they’re packed with garnish ideas and drink garnishing details that level up your serving game. If you’re into aperitif drinks with a twist, these are the ones to save.

Cranberry Aperol Spritz

This Cranberry Aperol Spritz is bubbly, bold, and made for celebration. This is one of those Aperol recipes that belongs on your holiday drink list. With tart cranberry juice, sparkling prosecco, and a splash of Aperol, it’s a holiday-ready drink that’s as easy to make as it is eye-catching. This fizzy favorite deserves a spot on your list, whether you’re hosting brunch or a winter gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Aperol
• 2 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
• 3 oz prosecco (chilled)
• 1 oz soda water
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice, fresh cranberries, and rosemary sprig (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a stemless wine glass with ice. Pour in the Aperol and cranberry juice. Top with prosecco and a splash of soda water. Stir gently to combine.
2. Garnish with an orange slice, a few whole cranberries, and a small rosemary sprig. Serve immediately and enjoy the festive sparkle.

Frozen Aperol Spritz Slushie

When the temperature climbs, this Frozen Aperol Spritz Slushie is exactly what you want in your glass. Blending Aperol, prosecco, and orange juice into a frosty mix, it delivers big flavor with an icy punch. It’s bright, refreshing, and just the thing for pool days, porch hangs, or any sun-drenched afternoon. Add this to your summer Aperol recipes list!

Ingredients

• 3 oz Aperol
• 3 oz orange juice
• 4 oz prosecco
• 1 cup ice
• Optional: splash of soda water
• Orange slice and fresh mint, for garnish

Instructions

1. Add Aperol, orange juice, prosecco, and ice to a high-powered blender. Blend until slushy and smooth, adding a splash of soda water if needed to help blend.
2. Pour into a tall curved or stemless glass. Garnish with an orange slice and a few mint leaves. Serve immediately with a straw.

Autumn Aperol Spritz

Autumn Aperol Spritz blends crisp apple cider, bitter Aperol, and sparkling prosecco into a cozy cocktail that still feels light and refreshing. It’s the kind of drink you’ll want to sip on during golden hour, wrapped in a light sweater and surrounded by fall leaves. With apple slices and cinnamon stirred in, this version brings seasonal flair without losing that signature spritz sparkle. Perfect for fall get-togethers or slow weekends at home.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Aperol
• 2 oz apple cider
• 3 oz prosecco (chilled)
• Splash of soda water (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices and cinnamon stick, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a wine glass with ice. Add Aperol and apple cider, then top with prosecco and a splash of soda water if using. Stir gently to combine.
2. Garnish with a few apple slices and a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately and enjoy the fall vibes.

Peach Aperol Spritz

This Peach Aperol Spritz brings together the sweetness of ripe peaches, the citrus of Aperol, and the sparkle of prosecco in one golden-orange glass. It’s fruity without being too sweet, and perfect for easy summer sipping. Fresh peach slices and a sprig of thyme add just enough flair to feel special without the extra effort. Serve it at golden hour and let the vibes take care of themselves.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Aperol
• 2 oz peach juice or purée
• 3 oz prosecco (chilled)
• 1 oz soda water (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Peach slices and thyme sprig, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a stemless wine glass with ice. Add Aperol and peach juice or purée. Top with prosecco and a splash of soda water. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with fresh peach slices and a thyme sprig. Serve right away.

Strawberry Aperol Spritz

Strawberry Aperol Spritz is a fruity refresh of the classic with just the right amount of sparkle. Fresh strawberries, citrusy Aperol, and bubbly prosecco come together in a drink that feels like summer in a glass. The basil adds a subtle herbal finish that balances the sweetness without complicating things. Serve it at brunch, bring it to your next cookout, or just make one to toast the sunshine.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Aperol
• 3 oz prosecco
• 1 oz soda water
• 3–4 fresh strawberries, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Add sliced strawberries to a stemless glass filled with ice. Pour in Aperol, then prosecco, then top with soda water. Stir gently to combine.
2. Garnish with a strawberry on the rim and a small basil sprig. Serve right away.

Rosé Aperol Spritz

The Rosé Aperol Spritz takes the classic spritz and softens it with sparkling rosé for a drink that’s light, floral, and subtly bitter. It’s elegant without trying too hard; perfect for afternoon picnics, warm evening toasts, or bridal showers. You don’t need a special occasion to make one, but it sure feels like one.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Aperol
• 3 oz sparkling rosé (chilled)
• 1 oz soda water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon peel and dried rose petals (optional), for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a wine glass with ice. Pour in the Aperol and sparkling rosé. Add a splash of soda water and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon twist and a few dried rose petals if using. Serve immediately and enjoy the floral fizz.

Aperol Margarita

This Aperol Margarita takes the bold tang of a classic marg and adds a bitter-orange twist that makes it stand out. With tequila, lime, and a splash of Aperol, it’s punchy but smooth and easy to sip. The color is bright, the flavor is bold, and it’s perfect for shaking up your next taco night or happy hour. Just salt the rim, squeeze the lime, and pour it up.

Ingredients

• 1½ oz tequila
• 1 oz Aperol
• ¾ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau or triple sec)
• ¼ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge and coarse salt, for garnish

Instructions

1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a short glass and dip it into coarse salt. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
2. In a shaker, combine tequila, Aperol, lime juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. Add ice and shake until chilled. Strain into the prepared glass and garnish with a lime wedge. Serve immediately.

Vodka Martini with Aperol

This Vodka Martini with Aperol puts a citrusy spin on the classic cocktail without complicating the pour. The Aperol softens the sharpness of vodka with a subtle bitter-orange note, making it smoother and more inviting. It’s clean, stylish, and easy to shake up when you’re in the mood for something that feels a little fancy. Serve it and let it speak for itself. This is one of the more unexpected Aperol recipes to try.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• ¾ oz Aperol
• ½ oz dry vermouth
• Ice (for shaking)
• Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions

1. Add vodka, Aperol, and dry vermouth to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until well chilled. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with an orange twist. Serve immediately.

Aperol Gin Fizz

The Aperol Gin Fizz is crisp, aromatic, and ideal for slow afternoons or a refreshing start to cocktail hour. The combination of citrusy Aperol and botanical gin gets a bubbly lift from soda water, while a rosemary sprig adds just the right herbal nudge. It’s one of those drinks that feels both laid-back and a little elevated, easy to make but far from forgettable.

Ingredients

• 1½ oz gin
• 1 oz Aperol
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 2 oz soda water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedge and rosemary sprig, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a tall glass with ice. Add gin, Aperol, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir gently to combine.
2. Top with soda water and garnish with a lemon wedge and rosemary sprig. Serve immediately.

Aperol Paloma

This Aperol Paloma brings a bittersweet edge to the bright, citrusy tequila favorite. The grapefruit and lime keep it punchy and fresh, while Aperol adds a layer of depth that makes every sip a little more interesting. It’s crisp, colorful, and easy to love, especially over ice with a salted rim. Serve it on warm evenings or whenever you’re craving something with a bit more bite.

Ingredients

• 1½ oz tequila
• 1 oz Aperol
• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz simple syrup (optional)
• 2 oz soda water
• Ice cubes
• Grapefruit wedge and coarse salt, for garnish

Instructions

1. Run a grapefruit wedge around the rim of a short glass and dip into coarse salt. Fill the glass with ice.
2. In a shaker, combine tequila, Aperol, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake briefly, then pour into the prepared glass. Top with soda water and garnish with a grapefruit wedge. Serve immediately.

Bourbon Aperol Cocktail

This Bourbon Aperol Cocktail brings together smoky, bittersweet, and citrusy flavors in one smooth sip. The richness of bourbon balances the bright edge of Aperol, making this drink both cozy and unexpected. It’s the kind of cocktail you pour when the sun dips low, the ice clinks slow, and the night doesn’t need a rush. Just add a big cube, an orange peel, and let the flavors settle in.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz Aperol
• ¼ oz simple syrup (optional, to taste)
• Dash of bitters (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a short rocks glass with ice. Pour in the bourbon and Aperol, then add simple syrup and a dash of bitters if using. Stir gently to chill and combine. Garnish with an orange peel and serve immediately.

Coconut Aperol Punch

This Coconut Aperol Punch is tropical with a twist: smooth, citrusy, and lightly bitter in the best way. Aperol brings its signature brightness, while creamy coconut and fresh lime round it out into something unexpected. It’s fun enough for beachside sipping but polished enough for a dinner party. Served in elegant glasses with a sprinkle of toasted coconut, it’s every bit as pretty as it is punchy.

Ingredients

• 1½ oz Aperol
• 1 oz coconut cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 2 oz pineapple juice
• Ice cubes (for shaking)
• Toasted coconut flakes and lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions

1. Add Aperol, coconut cream, lime juice, and pineapple juice to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled and creamy. Strain into a coupe glass.
2. Garnish with a small lime wheel and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. Serve immediately.

Aperol Tonic

The Aperol Tonic is proof that simple drinks can still feel sharp and satisfying. It’s bubbly, bitter-sweet, and refreshing in every way. Serve it over ice with a wedge of orange or a sprig of thyme for a minimalist happy hour option that always hits the mark. No shaking, no fuss, just pour and sip.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Aperol
• 4 oz tonic water (chilled)
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice and thyme sprig, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass with ice. Pour in the Aperol, then top with tonic water. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with an orange slice and a small sprig of thyme. Serve immediately.

Mocktail Aperol Spritz

This Mocktail Aperol Spritz has all the sparkle and citrusy bite of the original, minus the alcohol. With a non-alcoholic bitter aperitif, a splash of soda, and fresh orange, it’s zesty, refreshing, and just right for sober sipping. This one brings the same vibrant energy as its cocktail cousin, whether you’re skipping the booze for a night or for good. Pour it up, garnish it well, and no one’s missing out.

Ingredients

• 2 oz non-alcoholic Aperol-style aperitif (such as Lyre’s or Wilfred’s)
• 3 oz sparkling water or soda water
• 2 oz non-alcoholic sparkling wine (or more soda water)
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice and rosemary sprig, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a stemless wine glass with ice. Add the non-alcoholic aperitif, sparkling water, and non-alcoholic sparkling wine. Stir gently. Garnish with a fresh orange slice and rosemary sprig. Serve immediately.

Aperol Prosecco Jello Shots

These Aperol Prosecco Jello Shots are a bubbly twist on the classic shot – bright, citrusy, and just a little fancy. With the bittersweet edge of Aperol and the sparkle of prosecco, they bring big cocktail energy in bite-sized form. They’re perfect for brunches, bridal showers, or anytime you want your drinks to look as good as they taste. Jello shots deserve a spot in your Aperol recipes lineup.

Ingredients

• 1 cup prosecco
• ½ cup Aperol
• ½ cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons simple syrup (optional, to taste)
• 2 packets unflavored gelatin (about 1½ tablespoons)
• Orange zest, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine orange juice and simple syrup. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the top. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom. Warm gently over low heat until gelatin dissolves; do not boil.
2. Remove from the heat and stir in Aperol and prosecco. Pour into small shot cups or silicone molds. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until set. Garnish with a pinch of orange zest before serving.

Aperol Spritz Cake

Aperol Spritz Cake turns the iconic cocktail into a soft, citrusy dessert with major brunch appeal. Infused with orange zest, prosecco, and a splash of Aperol, the cake bakes up golden and moist, then gets topped with a glossy glaze and garnishes that echo the drink’s bold style. It’s zippy, a little boozy, and just sweet enough to make every slice feel like a celebration. If you’re exploring Aperol recipes beyond cocktails, this citrus-glazed cake is a must.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
  • 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • ¼ cup Aperol
  • ¼ cup prosecco
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Glaze:
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp Aperol
  • 1–2 tsp prosecco or orange juice (to thin)
  • For Garnish (optional):
  • Thin orange slices
  • Edible flowers and citrus zest

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350℉. Grease and line a round 8-inch cake pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add orange zest, Aperol, prosecco, orange juice, and vanilla.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
4. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with Aperol and prosecco until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake. Garnish with orange slices and edible flowers just before serving.

Aperol-Glazed Donuts

Some of the best Aperol recipes are the ones you can snack on. These Aperol-Glazed Donuts are fluffy, golden, and topped with a citrusy glaze that channels the bold, bittersweet vibes of your favorite spritz. The glaze gets its punch from a mix of Aperol and orange juice, creating a shiny finish that’s zesty, eye-catching, and totally addictive. Bake them for brunch or just to level up your donut game – this twist is worth it.

Ingredients

• For the Donuts:
  • 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm milk
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 egg
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp Aperol
  • 1 tbsp orange juice
  • Zest of ½ an orange (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix yeast, warm milk, and sugar. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead until smooth, then cover and let rise for 1 hour.
3. Roll out dough to ½-inch thick, cut into donut shapes, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
4. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350℉ and fry donuts until golden, flipping once. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, Aperol, orange juice, and zest. Dip warm donuts into the glaze or drizzle them with it. Let them set on a rack.

Aperol Poached Pears

Aperol Poached Pears turn a simple fruit into a show-stopping dessert. Slowly simmered in a mix of Aperol, orange juice, and sugar, the pears soak up color and flavor while staying tender and glossy. They’re bright, bittersweet, and served with their own sticky syrup: just spoon it over and you’re done. Elegant enough for a dinner party but easy enough for a make-ahead treat.

Ingredients

• 4 firm pears, peeled with stems intact
• 1 cup Aperol
• 1 cup water
• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 small sprig of rosemary (optional)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine Aperol, water, sugar, orange juice, zest, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add the pears, lower the heat, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pears are tender and evenly colored.
3. Remove pears and simmer the liquid for another 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve the pears warm or chilled with a drizzle of syrup.

Aperol Marinated Chicken Skewers

These Aperol Marinated Chicken Skewers pack a punch of citrus and smoke with every bite. Aperol brings just the right amount of brightness to the marinade, balancing the garlic, spices, and a splash of citrus. The result? Juicy, tender chicken with caramelized edges that’s perfect for grilling season or anytime you want to bring bold flavor to the table. This is one of those Aperol recipes that proves it’s not just for drinks.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• ¼ cup Aperol
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp orange juice
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Bell peppers and onions, cut into chunks (optional, for skewering)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together Aperol, olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or overnight for more flavor).
2. Thread chicken onto skewers, alternating with veggies. Grill over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and fully cooked. Serve hot with your favorite sauce or citrus wedges.

Aperol BBQ Sauce

Aperol BBQ Sauce brings a zesty twist to your cookout lineup. It’s smoky, sweet, and tangy with a bittersweet kick from the Aperol that makes it stand out. Use it as a glaze, marinade, or dipping sauce; it clings beautifully and caramelizes like a dream. Slather it on chicken, brush it over veggies, or serve on the side for a bold, citrus-forward finish – this is one of the most unique Aperol recipes you will try.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup Aperol
• 2 tbsp each of brown sugar and apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp each of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp each of garlic powder and onion powder
• Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Let it cook for 10–15 minutes, until slightly thickened.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cool slightly, then store in a jar or an airtight container. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.