This refreshing Cranberry Aperol Spritz is perfect for any gathering! It combines the bubbly goodness of prosecco with cranberry juice and a splash of Aperol for a lovely twist.
It’s such a fun drink to serve with friends, and the vibrant color always gets smiles. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—I just mix, pour, and enjoy the cheers! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prosecco: This dry sparkling wine adds a lovely effervescence. If you can’t find Prosecco, any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne works well too. I sometimes use Spumante for a slightly sweeter twist.
Aperol: The key ingredient that gives the drink its unique flavor and color. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic alternative, try using orange-flavored soda along with some bitters for complexity.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend using unsweetened cranberry juice for a more authentic taste. If you prefer it sweeter, choose a lightly sweetened version. Pomegranate juice can also be a great substitute for a different flavor profile.
Soda Water: Topping off with soda water adds extra fizz. If you like a bit of flavor, flavored sparkling waters can be a fun alternative!
How Do You Make the Perfect Spritz Without Losing Fizz?
The key to keeping your Cranberry Aperol Spritz bubbly lies in how you mix the ingredients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a glass full of ice to keep everything chilled.
- Pour the Aperol and cranberry juice first, then gently add the Prosecco. This layering helps maintain the bubbles.
- Top with soda water last, and give it a light stir. Stir too vigorously, and you risk losing that sparkly fizz!
Enjoy your drink with fresh garnishes to really bring out the flavors and visuals!
How to Make a Cranberry Aperol Spritz
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz Prosecco or any dry sparkling wine
- 2 oz Aperol
- 2 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- Soda water or sparkling water, to top off
- Fresh cranberries (a handful)
- Ice cubes
- Orange slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cranberry Aperol Spritz will take you about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy drink to whip up for parties or just a relaxing evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by taking a large wine glass or a stemless glass and fill it with ice cubes. You want it chilled so your drink stays refreshing!
2. Add the Base Ingredients:
Next, pour the Aperol and cranberry juice over the ice. Watch the gorgeous colors mix together!
3. Incorporate the Bubbles:
Now it’s time to add the Prosecco gently to the glass. Tilt the glass slightly while pouring to help keep the bubbles intact.
4. Top Off with Soda:
Add a splash of soda water or sparkling water to top off your drink. This gives it that lovely fizz that makes the spritz so special!
5. Gentle Stir:
Give your drink a gentle stir to combine everything without losing the bubbles. You want it mixed but still sparkling!
6. Garnish for Presentation:
To finish, garnish your spritz with fresh cranberries and an orange slice on the rim of the glass to add that extra flair.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your vibrant, refreshing Cranberry Aperol Spritz immediately and enjoy the cheers from your friends!
Can I Substitute Prosecco with Another Wine?
Absolutely! If you can’t find Prosecco, feel free to use any dry sparkling wine like Cava, Champagne, or even a dry rosé. Just ensure it’s not overly sweet for the best flavor balance.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter drink, choose a lightly sweetened cranberry juice or add a splash of simple syrup to taste. You can also use a sweet vermouth in place of Aperol for a different sweetness profile.
Can I Make This Drink in a Pitcher?
Yes! To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you’d like. Mix everything in a pitcher up to just before adding the soda water. Add the soda right before serving to maintain the fizz!
How Should I Store Leftover Ingredients?
For any leftover Aperol or cranberry juice, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Prosecco should be kept sealed and used within a few days for the best bubbles!
