This Cranberry Aperol Spritz is a fun twist on the classic drink! With bubbly prosecco, bright Aperol, and a splash of tart cranberry juice, it’s refreshingly delicious.
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening, I love serving this drink over ice with a slice of orange. It’s like a party in a glass—cheers to that! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prosecco: This sparkling wine adds bubbles and a light sweetness to your drink. If you want a drier option, you can use cava or a dry champagne. For a non-alcoholic twist, try a sparkling water with a hint of lemon.
Aperol: This bright orange liqueur brings a unique bittersweet flavor. If you can’t find Aperol, you could substitute with Campari, but note that it’s more bitter. An orange-flavored soda could work for a non-alcoholic version.
Cranberry Juice: I prefer using unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice to keep the drink less sugary. If it’s unavailable, you can use pomegranate juice or even a splash of cranberry syrup mixed with soda water as an alternative.
How Do I Make Sure I Get the Right Bubbles in My Spritz?
Getting those refreshing bubbles is key to a great spritz! Here’s how to achieve that:
- Always use chilled prosecco. This keeps the drink refreshing and the bubbles lively.
- When adding prosecco to your spritz, pour it slowly and gently over the side of the glass. This helps maintain the bubbles.
- Don’t stir too vigorously once you’ve added the prosecco; a gentle stir is sufficient to combine the ingredients without losing all that carbonation.
How to Make a Cranberry Aperol Spritz
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz prosecco (chilled)
- 2 oz Aperol
- 2 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Orange slice (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. With no cooking involved, it’s quick to whip up for yourself or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Fill the Glass:
Start by taking a stemless wine glass or a large rocks glass and fill it with ice cubes. You want it nice and chill to keep your drink refreshing!
2. Add the Aperol and Cranberry Juice:
Pour in the Aperol first. Then, follow it up with the cranberry juice. This layering creates a lovely color gradient, making your drink visually appealing!
3. Combine with Prosecco:
Carefully pour in the chilled prosecco. Do this slowly to maintain those lovely bubbles. Use a spoon to gently stir, mixing the ingredients without losing carbonation.
4. Garnish for Festivity:
Now it’s time to get creative! Scatter some fresh cranberries on top for a festive touch. They not only look great, but they also enhance the flavor!
5. Final Touches:
Add a slice of orange on the rim of the glass for that extra pop of color and a hint of citrus fragrance as you sip. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately to your friends or keep it all for yourself. Enjoy the refreshing taste of your Cranberry Aperol Spritz—you’ve earned it!
Can I Use Different Fruit Juices?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other juices like pomegranate or orange juice for different flavors. Just keep in mind that the overall taste of the drink will change accordingly!
How Do I Make This Drink Less Sweet?
If you find the drink too sweet, opt for an unsweetened cranberry juice and reduce the amount of Aperol slightly. You can also add a splash of soda water to dilute it a bit while maintaining the bubbly texture.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can mix the Aperol and cranberry juice ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge, and add the prosecco and ice just before serving to keep everything bubbly!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover prosecco or Aperol, store them in a cool, dark place. Prosecco is best consumed within a few days of opening, and Aperol can last for several months if sealed tightly. Enjoyed responsibly, they shouldn’t go to waste!
