Autumn Aperol Spritz Recipe: A Refreshing Citrus Twist

The first time I tried an Aperol Spritz cocktail, I was sitting on my back porch during a late summer evening. The sun was dipping low, the air was warm, and that bright orange drink in my glass tasted like pure sunshine.

Since then, it’s become one of my go-to cocktails when I want something light, refreshing, and just a little fancy without any fuss.

I was also surprised when I learned how to make this cocktail. Now I realize that it is a beautiful cocktail drink without any hassle.

This version of the Aperol Spritz recipe is extra special because I’ve added blood orange juice and apple cider—giving it a citrusy, crisp fall flavor that’s perfect for brunch, happy hour, or even holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving.

If you’ve never made one at home, you’re going to be surprised at how easy it is—no fancy tools needed, just a glass, ice, and a quick pour. Before I show you how to make it, let’s answer some quick questions I get all the time:

What is Aperol?

Aperol is an Italian bitter orange aperitif. It has a bright orange color and a slightly bitter, citrusy flavor with hints of herbs.

What is an Aperol Spritz drink?

The Aperol Spritz drink is a classic Italian cocktail made with Aperol, prosecco, and soda water. It’s light, bubbly, and perfect for sipping.

What is Aperol Spritz made of?

Traditionally, an Aperol Spritz recipe 3-2-1 means: 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 splash of soda water. My version adds blood orange juice and apple cider for a seasonal twist.

What Do Aperol Spritz Taste Like?

It tastes citrusy, slightly bitter, lightly sweet, and wonderfully bubbly—like a refreshing mix of oranges and herbs with a sparkling finish.

How to Make Aperol Spritz Recipe?

Recipe Overview

This Aperol Spritz recipe is a bubbly, citrus-forward cocktail made with Aperol, blood orange juice, apple cider, and a splash of soda or prosecco. It’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for gatherings.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Cuisine: Italian / Cocktail
• Course: Drinks / Cocktails
• Difficulty: Easy
• Yield: 10 servings (pitcher version)
• Serving Size: 1 cocktail
• Calories per Serving: ~150

Equipment Needed:

• Large pitcher (if making for a crowd)
• Cocktail glass or wine glass
• Stirrer or spoon
• Measuring jigger (optional)

Aperol Spritz Ingredients

• 3 ounces Aperol
• 2 ounces blood orange juice
• 2 ounces apple cider
• 1 splash soda water or prosecco
• 1 ounce club soda
• Ice
• 1 slice blood orange (for garnish)

Ingredient Notes

• Aperol: The star of this cocktail—bright orange and slightly bitter.
• Blood orange juice: Adds a gorgeous color and sweet-tart citrus flavor. If you can’t find blood oranges, use regular orange juice.
• Apple cider: Brings in cozy fall vibes, especially for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving.
• Prosecco: If you like extra bubbles, swap soda water for prosecco. Champagne works too.
• Club soda: Keeps the drink lighter if you don’t want extra alcohol.
• Garnish: A blood orange slice makes it picture-perfect.

Instructions

1. Fill your glass with ice. Don’t skimp—this cocktail tastes best very cold.

2. Pour in 3 ounces of Aperol.

3. Add 2 ounces blood orange juice and 2 ounces apple cider.

4. Top with a splash of soda water or prosecco, then add 1 ounce of club soda.

5. Stir gently to mix.

6. Garnish with a slice of blood orange.

👉 Pro tip: If you’re making a pitcher for 10 people, just multiply the ingredients by 10 and mix in a large jug. Add soda or prosecco right before serving so the bubbles don’t go flat.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Alcohol: ~11% ABV (depending on soda vs prosecco)

Tips and Variations

🟠 Make it lighter: Use club soda instead of prosecco for a lower-alcohol version.

🟠 Holiday version: Add a cinnamon stick to the glass for a warm fall twist.

🟠 Mocktail Aperol Spritz: Swap Aperol for a non-alcoholic bitter orange soda and use sparkling apple cider.

🟠 Citrus swap: Try lemon juice instead of blood orange for a sharper bite.

Serving Suggestions

This Aperol Spritz cocktail pairs perfectly with:

• Cheese boards and appetizers
• Light pasta dishes
• Fresh salads
• Brunch spreads with pastries and fruit

Storing Tips

✔️ Make ahead: Mix Aperol, cider, and juice in a pitcher ahead of time. Keep in the fridge up to 24 hours.

✔️ Don’t add bubbles until serving—this keeps it fizzy and fresh.

Helpful Tips

✅ Always use plenty of ice. The drink tastes best super chilled.

✅ If you want a stronger cocktail, use more prosecco and less club soda.

✅ Serve in a large wine glass for the classic Aperol Spritz look.

Recipe Notes

• This is my fall-inspired twist on the classic Aperol Spritz recipe.
• The blood orange gives a bold citrus kick.
• Apple cider makes it perfect for holidays and cooler months.
• You can make a single glass or a whole pitcher for parties.

FAQ

Conclusion

I can’t tell you how many times this Aperol Spritz recipe has saved me when I wanted something simple but special for guests.

It’s light, refreshing, and always a hit at brunch, happy hour, or holiday gatherings. Try it, make it your own, and let me know how you liked it!