The Cranberry Aperol Spritz is a fun and fruity twist on the classic spritz! With bubbly Prosecco, bright orange Aperol, and tart cranberry juice, this drink is perfect for any celebration.
It’s like a party in a glass! I love making this for friends because it’s easy and looks fantastic. Plus, it’s refreshing enough to sip all afternoon. Cheers to good times! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prosecco: This bubbly wine gives the drink its fizzy character. If you can’t find Prosecco, you can use any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne. Just choose a bottle you enjoy drinking!
Aperol: This vibrant orange liqueur adds a unique flavor. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, consider using a blend of orange juice and a splash of soda for a similar color without the alcohol.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend unsweetened cranberry juice for a tart taste, but if you prefer a sweeter drink, go for lightly sweetened juice. You could also use pomegranate juice as a fun twist!
Club Soda: This adds a refreshing bubbly finish. Swap it for tonic water if you like a slightly different flavor, or even use flavored sparkling water for an extra kick.
How Do You Assemble the Perfect Cranberry Aperol Spritz?
The key to a great garnished spritz is layering the flavors without losing the bubbles. Here are some tips:
- Start with plenty of ice to keep your drink cold and refreshing.
- Pour the cranberry juice and Aperol first, then gently add the Prosecco. This helps maintain the bubbles and prevents the drink from becoming too flat.
- Top with club soda at the end for that final fizz. Stir gently to keep it bubbly.
- Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh cranberries and an orange slice not only look beautiful but also add extra flavor.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a delightful Cranberry Aperol Spritz—perfect for any occasion!
How to Make a Cranberry Aperol Spritz
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz Prosecco (chilled)
- 2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 oz club soda or sparkling water
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Orange slices (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful drink takes just about 5 minutes to prepare! It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. Plus, no complicated steps mean you can whip it up in a flash!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by grabbing a large glass and filling it with ice cubes. This will ensure your drink stays nice and cold while you mix the ingredients.
2. Mix the Base:
Pour the cranberry juice over the ice first, followed by the Aperol. This combination gives your drink a lovely color and tart flavor right from the start.
3. Add the Bubbles:
Next, slowly pour in the chilled Prosecco. Pouring it gently helps keep the bubbles intact and gives you that refreshing spritz experience!
4. Finish with Fizz:
Top off your drink with club soda or sparkling water. This will add a nice fizz and lighten up the drink, making it even more refreshing.
5. Give it a Gentle Stir:
Using a spoon, stir gently to combine all the ingredients without losing all that lovely fizz. This step ensures that every sip is balanced and flavorful!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Now for the fun part! Garnish your drink with fresh cranberries and a slice of orange for a pop of color and extra flavor. It makes the drink look festive and inviting.
7. Enjoy!
Your refreshing Cranberry Aperol Spritz is ready! Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in each sip. Cheers!
Can I Use a Different Sparkling Wine Instead of Prosecco?
Absolutely! If Prosecco isn’t available, you can use any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne. Just choose a wine that you enjoy for the best flavor!
How Can I Make This Drink Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet drink, opt for unsweetened cranberry juice and consider reducing the amount of Aperol. You can also add a splash more club soda for extra dilution and fizz without the sweetness.
Can I Prepare This Drink in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can mix the cranberry juice, Aperol, and Prosecco in advance, but add the club soda just before serving to keep it bubbly. Garnish when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Other Garnishes Can I Use?
In addition to fresh cranberries and orange slices, you can try lemon slices, rosemary sprigs, or even pomegranate seeds for a festive touch. Get creative with your garnishes to suit the occasion!
