Name: Aperol Spritz with a Twist of Orange
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 oz Prosecco (chilled); 2 oz Aperol; 1 oz soda water; Fresh orange slice or orange twist; Ice cubes

Aperol Spritz with a Twist of Orange is a vibrant, refreshing cocktail that balances bittersweet citrus flavors with sparkling elegance. Perfect for warm afternoons or casual gatherings, this Italian classic gets an extra burst of fresh orange aroma, making every sip crisp, lively, and irresistibly smooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the definition of effortless sophistication. You don’t need advanced bartending skills or hard-to-find ingredients—just a few quality components and a glass of ice. The addition of fresh orange elevates the traditional spritz, giving it a brighter, juicier profile that feels both refreshing and slightly indulgent.

It’s perfect for entertaining because it looks stunning in the glass and can be prepared in minutes. Whether you’re relaxing after a long day or hosting friends, this drink brings a touch of European café culture right to your home. Plus, it’s light, bubbly, and not overly strong, making it ideal for slow sipping.

Yield: 1 serving

Aperol Spritz with a Twist of Orange

A refreshing Italian cocktail combining Aperol, Prosecco, soda, and fresh orange for a bright, bubbly, citrus-forward drink.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

3 oz Prosecco (chilled)
2 oz Aperol
1 oz soda water
Fresh orange slice or orange twist
Ice cubes

Instructions

Begin by selecting a large wine glass to allow space for ice and proper mixing of flavors.
Fill the glass generously with fresh ice cubes to keep the drink well chilled.
Pour in the chilled Prosecco first to create a light, bubbly base.
Slowly add the Aperol over the Prosecco, allowing it to gently blend and create a beautiful gradient.
Add a splash of soda water to lighten the drink and enhance its refreshing quality.
Take a fresh orange slice or twist and gently squeeze it over the glass to release natural oils.
Drop the orange garnish into the drink for added aroma and visual appeal
Using a long spoon, gently stir the mixture once or twice to combine without losing carbonation.
Taste and adjust slightly if needed, adding a touch more soda for a lighter version.
Serve immediately while cold and bubbly, and enjoy slowly for the best experience.

Notes

Avoid over-stirring as it reduces carbonation. Always use chilled ingredients to maintain the crispness. Fresh citrus enhances both aroma and flavor significantly.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 70Sodium 7mgCarbohydrates 2gSugar 1gProtein 0g

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

Always use plenty of ice to keep the drink chilled without diluting it too quickly. Pour the ingredients in the correct order—Prosecco first, then Aperol, then soda—to maintain the perfect balance and visual layering.

Use a large wine glass for presentation and aroma. Fresh orange slices or twists make a big difference, so avoid skipping them. Choose a good-quality Prosecco for the best taste. Gently stir instead of shaking to preserve the bubbles. Serve immediately for optimal freshness and fizz.

Ingredients Notes

Aperol is the star of this cocktail, offering a signature bittersweet orange flavor with herbal undertones. Prosecco adds lightness and effervescence, so selecting a dry (brut) variety helps balance the sweetness of Aperol.

Soda water provides a refreshing lift without overpowering the drink. Fresh orange slices or twists are essential—they enhance aroma and deepen the citrus experience. Ice should be clean and solid to avoid quick dilution. Each ingredient plays a simple yet crucial role, so quality matters more than quantity.

Variations and Substitutions

If you prefer a slightly sweeter profile, use a semi-dry Prosecco instead of brut. For a less bitter taste, reduce the Aperol slightly and increase soda water. Blood oranges can replace regular oranges for a richer color and flavor.

You can experiment with sparkling wine instead of Prosecco for a different texture. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Aperol with a non-alcoholic bitter aperitif and use sparkling grape juice or soda. Adding herbs like rosemary or mint can introduce a fresh aromatic twist.

Storage Options

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh and should not be stored once mixed, as it will lose its carbonation and vibrancy. However, you can prepare ingredients in advance—slice oranges and chill the Prosecco and soda. Keep everything refrigerated until ready to assemble for quick serving.