Apple Cider Aperol Spritz

The first cool sip of fall always seems to slow things down. You hear the ice clink in your glass and catch the scent of spice before you even taste. That’s when the Apple Cider Aperol Spritz shines. It’s familiar, but there’s a twist. Sweet apple cider blends with gentle bitterness, and the bubbles keep it light. This is the drink to pour when the afternoon turns into evening, and everyone can relax.

This spritz is a classic with a seasonal update. Spiced apple cider brings warmth, while Aperol adds a gentle bitter orange note to balance the sweetness. Champagne gives a dry sparkle, and soda water finishes it clean. It’s balanced for slow sipping and still feels refreshing.

The Apple Cider Aperol Spritz stands out because it fits so many occasions. It’s great for fall brunch, early holiday get-togethers, or quiet nights when you want something simple but thoughtful. Rim the glass, add ice, pour, and take a moment to enjoy. This drink is about slowing down and appreciating the moment.

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Why You’ll Love This

This spritz combines cozy comfort with refreshing brightness, making it an easy choice for any occasion.

• The apple cider brings gentle sweetness and spice.
• Aperol adds balance without overpowering.
• Champagne keeps the drink crisp and dry.
• Soda water lightens the finish.
• The garnish adds aroma and color with little effort.
• It feels festive without being heavy.

All in all, the Apple Cider Aperol Spritz is always a good choice.

Ingredients

This recipe uses only a few ingredients, so each flavor stands out.

• 1 ounce Aperol
• 2 ounces spiced apple cider
• 2 ounces Champagne
• a splash of soda water
• apples garnish
• thyme leaf, garnish
• cinnamon sticks garnish
• cinnamon sugar for rimming the glass

Aperol adds structure and a hint of orange bitterness. Spiced cider brings warmth and a seasonal feel. Champagne keeps it dry and lively, while soda water lightens it. The cinnamon-sugar rim adds gentle spice, and the garnish adds aroma and texture.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Choosing the right ingredients helps the Apple Cider Aperol Spritz stay balanced and enjoyable.

• Aperol is the best choice for this recipe, as it keeps the bitterness gentle.
• Any dry Champagne works well, but Prosecco can be used as a substitute.
• Use fresh spiced apple cider rather than shelf-stable juice for better flavor.
• Sparkling wine can replace Champagne if that’s what you have on hand.
• Club soda works best, but plain sparkling water is fine too.

If you want a slightly sweeter drink, use a semi-dry sparkling wine instead of Champagne.

Equipment and Glassware

You don’t need much for this drink, so it’s easy to make.

• Rocks Glass
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon

A stemless wine glass gives you plenty of room for ice and garnish. Fill it with lots of ice to keep your drink cold. For extra chill, put the glass in the fridge for a few minutes before rimming it.

How to Make It

The Apple Cider Aperol Spritz is quick to make. Just handle it gently to keep the bubbles fresh.

1. Rub the rim of a stemless wine glass with a lemon slice.
2. Dip the rim into cinnamon sugar and set aside.
3. Fill the glass almost to the top with ice.
4. Pour in the spiced apple cider, Aperol, and Champagne.
5. Add a splash of soda water.
6. Gently stir to combine.
7. Garnish with an apple slice, cinnamon stick, and thyme leaf.

Once you’ve made it, you can easily adjust the sweetness or fizz to suit your taste.

Pro Tips

A few small touches can make the Apple Cider Aperol Spritz taste brighter, look polished, and feel festive without extra effort.

• Chill all ingredients before mixing.
• Use fresh ice for the cleanest taste.
• Stir gently to protect the bubbles.
• Go light on the cinnamon sugar if you prefer less sweetness.
• Choose crisp apple slices for garnish.
• Clap the thyme lightly to release aroma.
• Serve right away for the best texture.

These small details make the drink feel polished without taking extra time.

Variations

This spritz is easy to adjust to your taste or the season.

• Use pear cider instead of apple cider for a softer fruit note.
• Swap Champagne for sparkling rosé for extra color.
• Add a thin orange slice for more citrus aroma.
• Skip the rim and add a cinnamon stick directly to the glass.
• Increase cider slightly for a sweeter finish.

Each variation keeps the base familiar but changes the mood a little.

When to Serve and Pairings

The Apple Cider Aperol Spritz works well during daytime gatherings and early evenings. It’s light enough to serve before dinner or as a snack.

It pairs nicely with cheese boards, roasted nuts, and light appetizers. Try it with sharp cheddar, baked brie, or flatbread. The bitterness helps balance richer bites without overpowering them.

Serve it when you want something seasonal that still feels fresh.

Storage and Serving Notes

This drink is best mixed fresh. You can pre-rim glasses and slice garnishes a few hours ahead, then store them covered in the fridge. Keep the cider and Champagne chilled. Once mixed, the Apple Cider Aperol Spritz should be enjoyed right away to keep the bubbles lively.

FAQs

Can I make an Apple Cider Aperol Spritz ahead of time?
It’s best mixed per glass. You can prep garnishes and rim the glasses ahead, but add bubbles just before serving.

Is this drink sweet?
It’s balanced. If you prefer it drier, reduce the cider slightly and add more Champagne.

What kind of apple cider works best?
Fresh spiced apple cider gives the best flavor. Avoid overly sweet versions.

Can I make this alcohol free?
Yes. Use non alcoholic sparkling wine and skip the Aperol, adding a splash of orange soda instead.

How strong is this drink?
It’s light to moderate, making it easy to sip.

More Cocktails to Try

If the Apple Cider Aperol Spritz feels right, these drinks are worth mixing next.

• Cognac Apple Cider Cocktail
• Apple Cider Cinnamon Whiskey
• Apple Cider Mimosas
• Peach Aperol Spritz
• Sparkling Spiced Pumpkin Punch

Each one keeps things simple while offering a fresh direction for your next pour.