The Cranberry Aperol Spritz is a refreshing drink that’s perfect for parties or just a cozy afternoon. It’s fruity, bubbly, and has a lovely hint of bitterness from the Aperol!
Mixing sparkling wine, Aperol, and cranberry juice is super easy. I mean, who can resist a drink that’s as pretty as it is tasty? Cheers to that! 🥂
I love serving this spritz with fresh cranberries for a fun touch. It’s so simple to make, and it always impresses guests—even if I forget to wear my fancy clothes! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prosecco: This sparkling wine gives the drink its bubbly and refreshing quality. If Prosecco isn’t available, try using any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne. A non-alcoholic sparkling cider can also work well as a substitute.
Aperol: The star of this drink, Aperol brings a unique bitter-sweet flavor. If you can’t find it, Campari can be a substitute, but it’s a bit more bitter. You could use a sweet vermouth for a different twist.
Cranberry Juice: I suggest using unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice for the best balance. If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to select a sweetened option. Pomegranate juice can also be a great alternative for a similar taste.
Garnishes: While fresh cranberries and orange slices add a nice aesthetic touch, you can also use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. A twist of lemon peel can add a bright note, too!
How Do I Get the Right Balance of Flavors in My Spritz?
The balance of flavors is crucial in this drink. Start by measuring your Aperol and cranberry juice to avoid overpowering the drink with bitterness. Taste it after stirring in the Prosecco to ensure it’s to your liking.
- Use a gentle stirring motion; this keeps the bubbles intact.
- Adjust the soda water to your preference—more if you want it lighter, less for a stronger flavor.
- Don’t skip the garnishes! They elevate the drink visually and aromatically.
Finding the right balance takes practice, but that’s part of the fun—experiment and enjoy!
Cranberry Aperol Spritz
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz Prosecco or any sparkling wine
- 2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- Soda water (to top off)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Orange slice or peel (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cranberry Aperol Spritz takes just about 5 minutes to prepare. With all the vibrant colors and refreshing flavor, it’s perfect for a quick and elegant drink to share with friends or family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by filling a wine glass or a large tumbler with ice cubes. Make sure to leave enough room for the liquids!
2. Mix It Up:
Pour 2 oz of Aperol and 1 oz of cranberry juice over the ice. Then, add 3 oz of Prosecco. This combination will create a beautiful orange-red color. Isn’t that pretty?
3. Combine Gently:
Using a spoon or a stirrer, gently stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as we want to keep the bubbles from the sparkling wine!
4. Add Some Bubbles:
Top off your drink with a splash of soda water. This adds some extra fizz and lightens the drink just right. Adjust the amount to your taste!
5. Dress It Up:
Grab some fresh cranberries and float them on top, and add an orange slice or peel for that pop of color and flavor. It makes the drink look festive too!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve your gorgeous Cranberry Aperol Spritz right away. Sip and enjoy the lovely flavors melding together with every refreshing sip!
Cheers to creating delightful sips and wonderful memories!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sparkling Wine?
Absolutely! While Prosecco is the classic choice, feel free to use any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne. You can even go for a non-alcoholic sparkling cider for a refreshing mocktail.
How Can I Make This Drink Sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can adjust the cranberry juice to a sweetened version or simply add a splash of simple syrup along with the other ingredients. Just stir gently to combine!
Can I Prepare This Drink in Advance?
While this drink is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the Aperol and cranberry juice mixture ahead of time and chill it. Just add the Prosecco and soda water just before serving to keep the bubbles intact!
What Other Garnishes Can I Use?
Besides fresh cranberries and orange slices, try using lemon twists, sprigs of fresh rosemary, or even pomegranate seeds for a unique twist. Get creative with what you have on hand!
