Name: Aperol Spritz with a Splash of Prosecco
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 oz Prosecco (chilled); 2 oz Aperol; 1 oz soda water (or to taste); Ice cubes (as needed); 1 orange slice (for garnish)

Aperol Spritz with a splash of Prosecco is a refreshing Italian classic that balances bittersweet citrus flavors with lively bubbles. Light, vibrant, and visually stunning, this cocktail is perfect for warm afternoons, casual gatherings, or pre-dinner sipping, offering a crisp and slightly herbal taste that’s both sophisticated and easy to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Aperol Spritz variation is loved for its simplicity and elegance. It requires minimal ingredients yet delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cocktail enthusiasts. The combination of Aperol’s bittersweet orange profile with chilled Prosecco creates a perfectly balanced drink that’s not overly sweet nor too bitter.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can easily adjust the ratios to suit your taste, making it stronger, lighter, or more citrus-forward. The vibrant orange hue makes it visually appealing, adding a festive touch to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, relaxing on a sunny afternoon, or entertaining guests, this drink feels effortlessly luxurious without requiring complicated preparation.

Yield: 1 cocktail

Aperol Spritz with a Splash of Prosecco

A refreshing Italian cocktail blending Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water for a crisp, citrusy, and lightly bitter sparkling drink.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

3 oz Prosecco (chilled)
2 oz Aperol
1 oz soda water (or to taste)
Ice cubes (as needed)
1 orange slice (for garnish)

Instructions

Start by selecting a large wine glass to allow enough space for ice and bubbles to circulate freely.
Fill the glass generously with large, fresh ice cubes to keep the drink well chilled.
Pour the chilled Prosecco into the glass first to preserve its delicate bubbles.
Slowly add the Aperol, allowing it to gently blend with the Prosecco and create a beautiful orange gradient.
Add a splash of soda water to lighten the drink and enhance its refreshing quality.
Using a long spoon, gently stir the mixture once or twice—avoid over-stirring to maintain carbonation.
Take a fresh orange slice and lightly squeeze it over the glass to release natural oils.
Drop the orange slice into the drink for garnish and added aroma.
Taste and adjust if needed—add more soda for a lighter drink or more Aperol for stronger flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy while cold and bubbly for the best experience.

Notes

Always use chilled ingredients to avoid excessive ice dilution. Adjust ratios based on personal preference. Serve immediately for optimal fizz and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 432Total Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gSodium 53mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 3gSugar 16gProtein 2g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use well-chilled ingredients to keep the drink crisp without needing too much ice dilution. Always pour Prosecco first to maintain its effervescence. Use large ice cubes to slow melting. Gently stir instead of shaking to preserve bubbles. Fresh orange slices enhance aroma and presentation.

Ingredients Notes

Aperol is the heart of this cocktail, offering a bittersweet flavor infused with orange, herbs, and roots. Choose a good-quality Prosecco—preferably dry (Brut) for a balanced taste, though Extra Dry works if you prefer slight sweetness. Soda water adds lightness and helps mellow the bitterness.

Fresh oranges are not just garnish—they subtly enhance citrus aroma when squeezed slightly before adding. Ice quality matters too; clear, solid cubes melt slower and prevent watering down the drink too quickly.

Variations and Substitutions

If you prefer a slightly less bitter profile, you can reduce Aperol and increase Prosecco. For a stronger citrus kick, add a splash of fresh orange juice. If Prosecco isn’t available, any dry sparkling wine can work as a substitute.

For a lower-alcohol version, increase soda water and reduce the Aperol and sparkling wine. You can also experiment with flavored sparkling waters like blood orange or grapefruit for a twist. For a more herbal complexity, a dash of bitters can elevate the drink further.

Storage Options

This cocktail is best prepared fresh and consumed immediately. However, you can pre-chill all ingredients in advance. Avoid storing a mixed Aperol Spritz, as it will lose its carbonation and freshness quickly.