The Cranberry Aperol Spritz is a festive twist on the classic Italian cocktail, combining the bitter orange notes of Aperol with the tartness of cranberries for a perfect seasonal refreshment. This cocktail is ideal for holiday gatherings or whenever you’re craving something light, bubbly, and refreshingly bitter-sweet.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Aperol
- 2 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 3 oz Prosecco (or any sparkling wine)
- 1 oz club soda
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish
- Sprig of rosemary (optional, for extra aroma)
Directions
- Prepare the Glass:
Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes to the top. - Add Aperol & Cranberry Juice:
Pour 2 oz of Aperol and 2 oz of cranberry juice over the ice. - Top with Prosecco & Soda:
Slowly add 3 oz of Prosecco and 1 oz of club soda to give it that fizzy kick. - Garnish:
Add a handful of fresh cranberries and a slice of orange for garnish. For a more festive touch, you can also add a sprig of rosemary. - Serve & Enjoy:
Stir gently and enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Aperol Spritz!
Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Variations
- Blood Orange Aperol Spritz: Replace cranberry juice with blood orange juice for a vibrant twist.
- Cranberry Aperol Spritz Punch: Multiply the recipe to create a large batch for parties, serving it in a punch bowl with extra cranberries and orange slices for decoration.
- Alcohol-Free Version: Replace Aperol with a non-alcoholic bitter orange soda and use sparkling water instead of Prosecco.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cranberry juice?
Yes! You can use pomegranate or raspberry juice for a different flavor profile, though cranberry juice gives it that classic tart taste.
What type of sparkling wine should I use?
Prosecco is ideal for its light, fruity flavor, but any dry sparkling wine works well in this spritz.
Is this cocktail sweet or bitter?
It’s a balance of both! The Aperol brings a pleasant bitterness, while the cranberry juice adds a tart and slightly sweet element.
Enjoy this Cranberry Aperol Spritz at your next holiday gathering—it’s a bright, bubbly, and festive drink that’s sure to impress!
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Cranberry Aperol Spritz
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Cocktails
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A festive twist on the classic Aperol Spritz, this cranberry version is the perfect cocktail for holiday gatherings or any winter celebration. It combines the tangy sweetness of cranberry juice with the bright, citrusy flavor of Aperol, balanced by sparkling prosecco and a splash of soda water. This refreshing, slightly bitter drink is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 3 oz Aperol
- 2 oz cranberry juice (100% juice, unsweetened)
- 3 oz prosecco
- 1 oz soda water (or club soda)
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Orange slices, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the Aperol and cranberry juice over the ice.
- Add prosecco and gently stir to combine.
- Top with soda water for a refreshing fizz.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and an orange slice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your festive spritz!
Notes
- For extra sweetness, you can use sweetened cranberry juice or add a splash of simple syrup.
- For a lower alcohol version, reduce the prosecco and add more soda water.