blood orange aperol spritz drink on wooden table

🍹 Blood Orange Aperol Spritz (Bright, Citrusy & Perfectly Refreshing)

If you love a classic Aperol spritz but want something a little more elevated and eye-catching, this Blood Orange Aperol Spritz is the perfect upgrade.

With its deep citrus flavor, vibrant sunset color, and light bubbly finish, this cocktail is as beautiful as it is refreshing. The addition of blood orange juice brings a slightly sweeter, richer citrus note that pairs perfectly with the bittersweet Aperol and crisp prosecco.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, lounging by the pool, or planning a girls’ night, this cocktail is guaranteed to impress.

✨ Why You’ll Love This Blood Orange Aperol Spritz

Stunning color = Pinterest-perfect 🧡
Light, bubbly, and refreshing
Easy to make in under 5 minutes
A fun twist on a classic spritz
Perfect for spring, summer, and holiday gatherings

🛒 Ingredients

2 oz blood orange juice
1.5 oz Aperol
3 oz prosecco
1–2 oz sparkling water
Ice

Garnish:

Blood orange slices
Fresh orange wheel or twist

🍊 Ingredient Breakdown (Why This Cocktail Works)

Blood Orange Juice
Adds a naturally sweet, slightly berry-like citrus flavor and gives the drink its rich, vibrant hue.

Aperol
Brings a signature bittersweet flavor with hints of orange, herbs, and a touch of complexity.

Prosecco
Adds lightness, crispness, and those signature spritz bubbles.

Sparkling Water
Balances the drink and keeps it refreshing without overpowering the flavors.

👩‍🍳 How to Make a Blood Orange Aperol Spritz

Step-by-Step Instructions

Fill a large wine glass with ice.
Pour in the blood orange juice.
Add the Aperol.
Slowly pour in the prosecco.
Top with sparkling water.
Gently stir to combine.
Garnish with a blood orange slice.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

💡 Pro Tips for the Perfect Spritz

Always use chilled prosecco
Pour prosecco slowly to preserve bubbles
Use fresh blood orange juice for best flavor
Don’t over-stir—keep that light, airy texture

🍹 Variations to Try

Sparkling Blood Orange Mocktail

Skip Aperol and use sparkling orange soda or flavored sparkling water.

Blood Orange Rosé Spritz

Swap prosecco for rosé wine for a deeper flavor.

Frozen Blood Orange Spritz

Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy version.

Citrus Spritz Twist

Add a splash of lemon or lime juice for extra brightness.

🎉 Perfect Occasions for This Cocktail

Summer parties ☀️
Brunch with friends 🥂
Holiday gatherings (especially winter citrus season!)
Valentine’s Day or date nights 💕
Outdoor entertaining

🍽️ What to Serve With a Blood Orange Spritz

This cocktail pairs beautifully with:

Charcuterie boards
Bruschetta
Light pasta dishes
Seafood
Fresh salads
Citrus desserts

Blood oranges have become incredibly popular thanks to their unique flavor and stunning color. They offer a deeper, slightly berry-like citrus taste that elevates traditional cocktails.

From a content perspective, blood orange drinks:

Stand out visually (great for Pinterest + Instagram)
Feel seasonal and elevated
Pair beautifully with trending spritz recipes

If you are a fan of the popular Aperol Spritz Cocktail, well then there’s no doubt you will be in love with this Blood Orange Aperol Spritz Recipe! The freshly squeezed blood orange juice is 100% what makes this as amazing at it is! Just take the normal ingredients in Aperol Spritz and add this fresh juice! If you are getting sick of this cold winter, and looking for something to brighten up your days, well then this may be just what you need!

What Is An Aperol Spritz?

An Aperol Spritz is one of the most popular cocktails in Italy. It consists of Aperol Liqueur as well as prosecco and sparkling water. It’s bitter orange taste blends perfectly with the subtle sweetness of prosecco along with the bubbles from the sparkling water. This spritz recipe is one of a kind. It’s refreshing, subtly sweet and bitter and crisp all in one.

aperol spritz recipe in a glass on a wooden table

What Is Aperol?

Aperol is a delicious orange flavored liqueur. It is an aperitivo liquid that is distinct in color and taste. It is the perfect blend of sweet and bitter all together. The flavor is very delicious, but strong, so when using it in cocktails make sure to be very sparing with the amount!

Ingredients In Aperol Spritz

This is one of the easiest cocktails to make! It only requires 3 ingredients, Aperol, Prosecco and Sparkling Water. If this is the first time you will be making an Aperol Spritz Cocktail, then I suggest you add small amounts of Aperol at a time. This liqueur is delicious but bitter. Some people LOVE the taste of it, and some need it to be diluted. I personally like just only one ounce of Aperol in my spritz. I suggest starting with that before using more.

pouring blood orange juice into a glass on a table

What Blood Orange Juice Should I Use?

I always suggest using freshly squeezed blood orange juice in any cocktail. Make sure to buy ripe blood oranges as they will have the highest level of sweetness to them. However, if you cannot find blood oranges where you live, or if they are out of season, then of course you can always buy an already made juice from your local grocery store!

❓ FAQ

What is a blood orange Aperol spritz?
It’s a twist on the classic Aperol spritz made with blood orange juice for added flavor and color.

Can I use regular orange juice instead?
Yes, but blood orange juice gives a richer, more unique flavor.

What’s the best prosecco to use?
A dry (brut) prosecco works best to balance sweetness.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Prep ingredients ahead, but assemble right before serving.