The Cranberry Aperol Spritz is a vibrant, festive twist on the beloved Italian aperitif, blending zesty Aperol with sparkling prosecco and a splash of cranberry juice. Its irresistible ruby hue, lively bubbles, and refreshing bittersweet flavor make it ideal for everything from sun-dappled summer afternoons to cozy holiday gatherings. This easy sipper delivers pure joy in a glass, inviting you to slow down, savor, and toast with friends—no mixology degree required!

Cranberry Aperol Spritz Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes the Cranberry Aperol Spritz so alluring is just how few ingredients go into creating something so gorgeous. Each element has a part to play: vibrant color, balanced sweetness, uplifting fizz, and eye-catching garnishes. Here’s what you’ll need and why each matters:

Prosecco (3 ounces, chilled): Brings gentle bubbles, light sweetness, and an irresistibly festive sparkle—choose one that’s dry for best balance.
Aperol (2 ounces): The heart of the drink—this vivid orange, bittersweet liqueur offers a punch of citrus and herbs with signature complexity.
Cranberry Juice (2 ounces, chilled): Supplies tartness and a beautiful red color—look for unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties to keep the flavors crisp.
Soda Water (1 ounce, chilled): Adds lift and effervescence that lightens every sip.
Ice: Essential for keeping everything frosty and refreshing, especially on warm days or during a party.
Garnishes (fresh cranberries, orange slice, rosemary sprig): These are more than just decorative—they amplify aroma, color, and even a hint of herbal flavor.

How to Make Cranberry Aperol Spritz

Step 1: Fill the Glass with Ice

Begin by grabbing your favorite rocks or wine glass, and fill it about two-thirds full with ice cubes. Chilling the glass ensures the Cranberry Aperol Spritz stays cold and refreshing from your first sip to your last—plus, that clinking sound is a prelude to relaxation.

Step 2: Add Aperol, Cranberry Juice, and Prosecco

Pour in the Aperol first for its cheerful hue, then add cranberry juice to build the drink’s signature color and tart edge. Next, slowly top with chilled prosecco—the bubbles should mingle beautifully with the other ingredients, creating an inviting fizz.

Step 3: Top with Soda Water and Gently Stir

To finish, add soda water for a sparkling lift. Give the drink one gentle stir with a bar spoon (or whatever you have on hand)—this is just enough to combine everything without losing too much carbonation.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Adorn your Cranberry Aperol Spritz with a few fresh cranberries, a slice of orange, and, if you like, a sprig of rosemary. These thoughtful touches make the drink feel special and add inviting aromas as you sip. Serve immediately—cheers!

How to Serve Cranberry Aperol Spritz

Garnishes

No Cranberry Aperol Spritz is complete without the finishing flourish of garnishes. A handful of fresh cranberries floats like jewels atop the ice, while a bright orange slice underscores the citrus notes of the Aperol. A rosemary sprig is the cherry on top, lending subtle piney aromas and an unmistakable elegance—perfect for both holidays and sunny patios.

Side Dishes

This spritz pairs beautifully with a range of simple bites. Think marinated olives, salty prosciutto, herbed crostini, or even light cheeses like goat cheese and ricotta. The bittersweet, sparkling flavors of the Cranberry Aperol Spritz act as a palate cleanser, making every snack taste even better.

Creative Ways to Present

Unleash your creativity when serving a Cranberry Aperol Spritz by using vintage coupes for a retro vibe or large wine glasses for that classic look. Present a tray of pre-garnished glasses for parties, or set up a DIY spritz station with all the fixings so guests can customize their drinks. For holidays, add sugared cranberries or gold cocktail picks for extra dazzle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Cranberry Aperol Spritz (which happens rarely!), store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The soda and prosecco will lose some fizz, but you can always refresh each glass with a splash of fresh bubbles before serving. For best results, keep garnishes separate until ready to serve again so everything stays vibrant.

Freezing

While freezing the complete Cranberry Aperol Spritz isn’t recommended due to the alcohol and carbonation, you can freeze the cranberry juice in ice cube trays for future cocktails. These cubes chill your drink without diluting it, and they make any glass look extra special.

Reheating

This drink is best enjoyed ice-cold and freshly made, so there’s no need to reheat—simply stir in some new prosecco and soda if it’s been sitting, load up on fresh ice, and finish with a garnish to revive the original magic.

FAQs

Can I use a different sparkling wine instead of prosecco?

Absolutely! While prosecco is the classic choice for a Cranberry Aperol Spritz, cava or other dry sparkling wines work well, too. Just aim for something crisp and not too sweet to keep the drink balanced.

Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes, you can create a delicious mocktail version by using a non-alcoholic bitter aperitif, sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine, and cranberry juice. The vibrant flavors and festive looks stay the same!

What type of cranberry juice works best?

Go for unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice to keep the spritz lively and tart. If your cranberry juice is very sweet, use less or balance it with a squeeze of fresh lime.

How do I scale the recipe for a party?

Simply multiply the ingredients for however many servings you need and mix in a large pitcher—just wait to add the prosecco and soda water until you’re ready to serve so the spritz stays bubbly.

Can I prepare the Cranberry Aperol Spritz in advance?

You can pre-mix the Aperol and cranberry juice and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add the prosecco, soda water, and ice just before serving for maximum sparkle and freshness.

Final Thoughts

However you decide to enjoy it, the Cranberry Aperol Spritz brings effortless charm to any gathering. Its blend of tart, bubbly, and bittersweet flavors is simply irresistible—so don’t hesitate to gather your ingredients and invite someone to raise a glass with you. Here’s to unforgettable moments, big or small!