This Cranberry Aperol Spritz is a fun twist on the classic drink! With bright cranberry juice and bubbly prosecco, it brings a cheerful splash of color and flavor to your glass.
It’s refreshing and perfect for parties or a cozy night in! I love to sip it on warm days and watch the sunlight sparkle through the glass. Who can resist a drink that looks this pretty? 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Aperol: This bright orange liqueur adds a unique bitter-sweet flavor. If you don’t have Aperol, try using Campari for a more robust bitterness, or even elderflower liqueur for a sweeter option.
Prosecco: This sparkling wine gives the drink a lovely fizz. If Prosecco is unavailable, you can use any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne. Just make sure it’s not too sweet!
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice keeps the drink tart. For a sweeter taste, you can substitute with cranberry cocktail juice, but keep in mind it may change the flavor balance.
Club Soda or Sparkling Water: These are key for adding a refreshing fizz. If you’re avoiding carbonation, you could leave it out, but the drink will be richer.
How Do I Mix the Ingredients Without Losing the Bubbles?
Maintaining the fizz is crucial for a bubbly drink like this one! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by filling your glass with ice. This keeps the drink cold and helps layer your ingredients.
- Pour the Aperol and cranberry juice over the ice first. This lets them blend while minimizing the disturbance to the bubbles.
- When adding the Prosecco, pour it gently down the side of the glass. This helps preserve its bubbles.
- Finally, add the splash of club soda or sparkling water, again pouring it slow.
- Use a bar spoon to stir gently. A light touch is key to keeping that effervescence alive!
Following these steps will help you create a beautiful, bubbly Cranberry Aperol Spritz every time!
Cranberry Aperol Spritz
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz Aperol
- 3 oz Prosecco or other sparkling wine
- 2 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened)
- Splash of club soda or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Orange slices or wedges (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing drink takes just about 5 minutes to prepare! Perfect for those quick get-togethers or a cozy evening treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by grabbing a large wine glass or tumbler. Fill it up with ice cubes to keep your drink nice and cold and refreshing.
2. Mix the Aperol and Cranberry Juice:
Next, pour the Aperol into the glass, followed by the cranberry juice. This combo gives your drink a beautiful color and delicious flavor!
3. Add the Sparkling Wine:
Now it’s time to gently pour in the Prosecco or sparkling wine. Be careful, as you want to preserve those lovely bubbles!
4. Add a Splash of Soda:
Top it all off with a nice splash of club soda or sparkling water for that extra fizz. This makes the drink light and refreshing!
5. Stir Gently:
Using a long spoon, stir the drink gently to mix all the ingredients together without losing the bubbles. We want it to be fizzy and fun!
6. Garnish Your Drink:
To finish, garnish your drink with fresh cranberries and an orange wedge or slice. This not only looks pretty but adds a delightful aroma too!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cranberry Aperol Spritz immediately. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the burst of refreshing flavors in every sip!
Can I Use Other Types of Juice?
Yes! While cranberry juice gives a lovely tartness, you can experiment with other juices like orange, pomegranate, or even blood orange juice for a different twist. Just keep in mind that it may change the overall flavor of the drink.
Can I Make This Drink Pre-Made?
It’s best to mix this drink just before serving to maintain its fizz. However, you can prepare the Aperol and cranberry juice mixture ahead of time and chill it in the fridge. Just add the Prosecco and club soda right before serving for that bubbly effect!
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can use sweetened cranberry juice, or add a splash of simple syrup or elderflower liqueur. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
Can I Use a Different Garnish?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Other great garnish options include fresh mint leaves, a twist of lemon or lime, or even edible flowers for a more decorative touch!
