21 Aperol Cocktails: The Best Recipes to Sip and Enjoy

Aperol is the bright, bittersweet Italian aperitif that is known for adding a bold splash of citrus and herb-tinged deliciousness to any cocktail. With its unmistakable vibrant orange hue and zesty mix of bitter orange, rhubarb, and aromatic botanicals, it’s easy to see why it’s been a favorite behind the bar since 1919.

While the Aperol Spritz may be its initial claim to fame, this versatile spirit has plenty more to offer. In this guide, we’re mixing up classic and creative Aperol cocktails, breaking down how to use it in drinks, and sharing a few pairing tips along the way. Ready to shake things up? Let’s get started.

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	Aperol Brand Ambassador, Loris Contro gave us some expert tips tips and the scoop on the latest Aperol trends: “Aperol is an exciting bitter liqueur to use in cocktails because it not only adds additional fruity and floral notes, but also herbaceous notes which enhance all the other flavors and a pleasant mouthfeel due to its higher density.” READ THE FULL ARTICLE, HERE

1. Aperol Spritz

It just wouldn’t be right to start any Aperol cocktail list without a tip of the fedora to this Italian legend. That’s right, the Aperol Spritz is the original lazy day, slow living, countryside cocktail that everyone should try. With just a splash of Aperol, prosecco, and club soda, an Aperol Spritz is born, and with it, greatness is in a glass.   

2. Aperol Sour

Maybe it’s just us, but it’s hard not to smile at the sight of a perfectly chilled cocktail with a frothy top. And if you also happen to be an Aperol lover like us, then you’re in luck. The Aperol Sour cocktail recipe is simple to make and ready in a minute if you have the ingredients handy. An icy shake of Aperol, gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white is all you need to create a tangy cocktail with a velvety texture. Smooth. 

3. Easy Aperol Negroni

The Aperol Negroni is best described as a Negroni lite, but that doesn’t mean it’s light on flavor. Aperol replaces the traditional Campari, which sweetens things up slightly and makes for an easier, smoother drinking experience. It’s a great way to start any cocktail evening, and an even better way to end one.    

Also see: 6 of the Best Gin and Aperol Cocktails to Sip this Summer

4. Raspberry and Aperol Floats

Is it a cocktail or is it dessert? Who cares because it’s absolutely delicious and that’s all that matters! This ice cream float is spiked with juicy raspberries and fresh thyme then topped up with our old friend Aperol and soda. It hits all the right notes of being sweet, sour, and creamy— all at the same time. Whether you’re making this one for date night or a dinner party, it’s always bound to impress. 

5. Aperol Old Fashioned

This bourbon Aperol cocktail recipe takes the Old Fashioned classic you know and love and gives it an Aperol upgrade. The traditional bitters are replaced with Aperol to create a bittersweet flavor profile that complements the oak, vanilla, and caramel flavors of bourbon. Enjoy it on the rocks with an orange twist and remember to sip slowly and enjoy the ride.  

6. Naked and Famous

If the Last Word and the Paper Plane got naked and had a famous love child then the Naked and Famous would be it. It was created by New York bartender Joaquín Simó, and it uses a blend of mezcal, Aperol, chartreuse, and fresh lime juice. It’s a modern take that’s sweet, sour, smoky, and herbaceous all in one and it’s definitely one to look out for. 

7. Aperol Gin cocktail with ginger beer

If a fiery ginger kick to the tastebuds is your thing, then step right up and wrap your lips around the Aperol ginger beer cocktail. It’s a blend of gin, Aperol, fresh lime, and ginger beer and it’s delightfully crisp and refreshing. The bitter orange and spice of Aperol blend perfectly with the gin’s botanicals and spicy ginger bite. Bonus style points are awarded if you use an extra spicy ginger beer.         

8. Aperol Cosmopolitan

The Aperol Cosmopolitan is a simple 3-ingredient take on one of the most famous cocktails in the world. There’s no cranberry juice in this version, but it still has a tart bite from Aperol’s bitter orange flavor and the lime. Just like the classic Cosmopolitan, it’s shaken over ice then strained into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnished with a lime or orange peel.  

9. Bird of Paradise

Just like the name suggests, this modern Tiki Aperol cocktail recipe is packed with tropical flavors. Pineapple and lime juice form a sweet and zesty base, while overproof rum and Aperol add an orange herbaceous kick. The Bird of Paradise is best served over lots of ice around the pool, and it’s even better when shared with friends. 

10. Aperol Margarita

The Aperol Margarita is a Mexi-talian party, and you’re invited. A simple swap of orange liqueur for Aperol and you’ve crossed the border into orange Margaritaville. The spicy, citrus notes of the Blanco tequila sing with the bitter orange while the lime juice adds a refreshing zing. Rim your glass with salt if you want to go traditional or use sugar to sweeten things up.  

Learn more: Discover Venetian Aperitivo Culture with the Aperol Spritz

11. Aperol Paper Plane cocktail

Invented by American bartender Sam Ross, the Paper Plane might look cute, but its flavor profile isn’t playing around. Aperol and Campari join forces to add a bitter-sweet punch to the rich, wooded flavor of bourbon. It’s bright and bitter up front with a long, smooth and sweet bourbon finish.   

12. Winter Aperol cocktail

There seems to be no end to the versatility of the Aperol spritz come rain or shine. This fragrant winter version might be served cold, but its flavor profile will warm your heart. The classic Aperol, prosecco, and soda base are joined with a splash of cranberry juice, fresh cranberries, resinous rosemary, and a cinnamon stick. It’s refreshing yet comforting and perfect for a winter cocktail party. 

13. Aperol Orange Juice Spritz

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it would be like to dive face-first into a swimming pool of oranges, then this is your chance. This orange flavor blast leans into the iconic bitter orange flavor of Aperol, but it’s tempered with freshly squeezed orange juice. The prosecco adds lightness and texture as well as another layer of complex fruit flavors.     

14. Bourbon Aperol cocktail

In this edition, the mellow flavors of oak jump into the prosecco jacuzzi. It sounds like a strange combination but the lightness of the spritz elevates the wooded notes of the bourbon. The result is an airy drinking experience with a long, rich finish. You can also switch out the prosecco for club soda to make the bourbon more pronounced. 

15. Eclipse cocktail

Named after the color of a New York eclipsed moon, this rusty red Aperol cocktail recipe blends tequila and mezcal. The result is a complex yet approachable cocktail. Aperol and cherry liqueur sweeten it up and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice balances the flavor profile. So next time there’s a lunar eclipse on the horizon, why not throw an eclipse cocktail party?       

16. The Confident Man

The Confident Man was made famous by the American restaurant owner, Joe Campanale. It’s his take on a classic Paloma cocktail and it features vodka, Aperol, elderflower liqueur, and fresh grapefruit juice. It’s bright, fresh, and punchy with huge citrus notes and floral sweetness from the liqueur. It’s also a stunning shade of pink which belies its bold character.

17. Aperol Mist

This Aperol beer cocktail recipe is a perfect example of its extraordinary flavor flexibility. Paired with a splash of lemon juice and a Belgian wheat beer, the Aperol’s orange flavor shines. It picks up on the spice and orange peel flavors of the wheat beer, while complementing the overall profile. Another bonus is that it looks like a sunset, so pairing it with one is always a good idea.   

How to Enjoy Aperol this Winter: Aperol Spritz Gift Guide

18. Dead Man’s Handle

Hailing from Houston in the great state of Texas, the Dead Man’s Handle was created by Tiffany Kirk from Miss Carousel. It’s a tequila, Aperol, and lime concoction with almond and orange flower syrup. The Aperol balances and enhances the syrup and the cocktail is garnished with chili flakes for added cowboy kick.    

19. Aperol Americano

The Aperol Americano is one of the most uncomplicated Aperol cocktail recipes out there. With Aperol as the hero and sweet vermouth as its sidekick, it’s all about the bitter orange and botanicals. Top it up with club soda and a squeeze of lemon and you’ve got yourself a low-alcohol sipping cocktail for any occasion—day or night.   

20. Fizzy Aperol Grapefruit cocktail

This Aperol spritz cocktail recipe is not only a play on the fruity Italian prosecco spritz classic, but it’s also a meeting of bitter-sweet titans. Aperol’s blend of flowers, herbs, and roots collides with the tart, sweet, and sometimes sour flavor profile of grapefruit. The result is one of the most refreshing cocktails you’ll ever drink. We think it might even rival the classic, but don’t tell the Italians we said that. 

21. Aperol Boulevardier

This riff on the Boulevardier dials back the intensity for a smoother, more easygoing take on the classic. To make one, combine 3 oz Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon, 1 oz Cinzano Vermouth Rosso, and 1 oz Aperol in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Finish with an orange twist for that extra burst of citrus.

How to pair Aperol cocktails with food

Aperol’s bittersweet, citrusy kick makes it a dream to pair with food. That hint of orange and herbal depth plays beautifully with salty, cheesy, and tangy flavors, making it a go-to for easy, crowd-pleasing pairings. Whether you’re setting out snacks for aperitivo hour or planning a full meal, here’s how to make the most of Aperol cocktails at the table.

Classic Aperol pairings

If you’re keeping it simple, Mediterranean-style bites are the way to go. The Aperol Spritz is practically made for aperitivo hour, so lean into that Italian flair with:

• Briny olives. Their saltiness balances Aperol’s bittersweet edge.
• Crispy bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil add a bright contrast.
• Prosciutto and parmesan. Salty, nutty flavors bring out Aperol’s herbal side.
• Marinated artichokes. The slight acidity works like a charm with Aperol’s citrus notes.

TOP TIP! For richer cocktails like an Aperol Boulevardier, go for bold, umami-packed bites like blue cheese-stuffed dates or crispy pancetta-wrapped figs.

Seasonal & occasion-based pairings

Aperol cocktails shine year-round, but a little seasonal pairing can take things to the next level:

• Warm weather? Keep it light with fresh seafood—grilled prawns, citrusy ceviche, or burrata with peaches all work beautifully.
• Chilly evenings? Lean into heartier dishes like risotto, creamy pasta, or even a salty, crispy roast chicken to balance out the bittersweet notes. Or how about a stone-ground pizza fresh from the oven…
• Brunch-ready? Aperol plays well with buttery pastries, smoked salmon, or a zesty fruit salad to kick things off right.

Whether it’s bringing a citrusy kick to a Boulevardier, adding a bittersweet edge to a Spritz, or rounding out a Negroni with a smooth, herbal touch, Aperol has a way of making every cocktail shine. With 21 delicious drinks to explore, there’s no shortage of ways to mix things up. Try a new recipe, experiment with your own twist, and share your favorite Aperol cocktails with us on social media! For more Aperol inspiration, visit the Aperol website and check out the latest merch at Aperol’s official store.