Aperol Spritz Fall Cocktail

This Aperol Spritz Fall Cocktail is my favorite seasonal twist on the classic spritz. The addition of blood orange juice and apple cider brings warmth and autumnal flavors, while the sparkling wine keeps it crisp and refreshing. It’s a festive drink that feels cozy yet still light and bubbly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this cocktail because it takes the well-known Aperol spritz and gives it a seasonal makeover. The Aperol provides that familiar bitter-sweet base, while the apple cider adds a hint of spice and sweetness. The blood orange juice gives it a gorgeous color and deeper citrus flavor. It’s a drink that feels just right for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

½ cup ice
3 ounces Aperol
2 ounces blood orange juice
2 ounces Apple Cider
1 splash soda water or Prosecco, Champagne optional
3 ounces Prosecco Champagne, or any sparkling wine
1 slice blood orange – garnish

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I fill a large wine glass or stemless glass with ice.
2. I pour in the Aperol, blood orange juice, and apple cider.
3. I add the Prosecco (or champagne/sparkling wine).
4. I finish with a splash of soda water or extra bubbles if I want more fizz.
5. I stir gently to combine and garnish with a blood orange slice before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one cocktail. It takes me about 5 minutes to prepare, making it quick and perfect for entertaining.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the blood orange juice with regular orange juice when blood oranges aren’t in season. I also like to add a cinnamon stick or star anise to the glass for a spiced fall flavor. If I want a sweeter version, I add a touch of simple syrup. For a lighter option, I skip the sparkling wine and just use soda water.

Storage/Reheating

This cocktail is best made fresh and doesn’t store well since the bubbles fade. If I want to prep ahead, I keep the Aperol, cider, and juice mixed together in the fridge and top with sparkling wine and soda just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this cocktail without Prosecco?

Yes, I sometimes use just soda water for a lighter version.

Can I use regular orange juice instead of blood orange?

Yes, but I love how blood orange adds color and a richer citrus flavor.

Does it matter what type of apple cider I use?

I use fresh, non-alcoholic apple cider, but sparkling cider also works.

Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?

Yes, I replace Aperol with a non-alcoholic aperitif and use sparkling apple cider instead of wine.

What type of glass should I use?

I prefer a large wine glass so there’s room for ice and bubbles.

Can I batch this cocktail for a party?

Yes, I mix the Aperol, juice, and cider in a pitcher, then top each serving with sparkling wine.

How do I make it sweeter?

I add a splash of simple syrup or honey to taste.

Can I make it stronger?

Yes, I reduce the soda water and add a little more sparkling wine.

What garnishes work well besides blood orange?

I like adding a cinnamon stick, apple slice, or rosemary sprig.

Can I use champagne instead of Prosecco?

Yes, champagne works perfectly and makes the cocktail feel extra festive.

Conclusion

The Aperol Spritz Fall Cocktail is a refreshing yet cozy seasonal drink I love making when the weather cools down. The balance of Aperol, cider, and blood orange with sparkling wine makes it festive and flavorful, while the garnish gives it a beautiful finish. It’s quick to mix, delicious to sip, and always a hit at autumn gatherings.

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