Strawberry Aperol Cocktail

This Strawberry Aperol Cocktail is fruity, refreshing, and beautifully balanced with floral and citrus notes. I love how the strawberry infusion softens the bitterness of Aperol, while the gin and elderflower liqueur add depth. A touch of lemon juice and syrup ties it all together for a bright, elegant drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it turns Aperol into something softer and more versatile by infusing it with strawberries. The result is a cocktail that feels summery and vibrant but still refined. I also enjoy how it’s easy to make in advance since the infused Aperol and syrup can be prepared ahead of time.

Ingredients

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

Strawberry Infused Aperol
▢1 ½ cups sliced strawberries
▢750 ml Aperol

Simple Syrup
▢½ cup sugar
▢½ cup water

Strawberry Aperol Cocktail
▢1 oz Strawberry Infused Aperol
▢1 oz gin
▢½ oz elderflower liqueur
▢½ oz simple syrup
▢½ oz lemon juice
▢fresh strawberries, for garnish

Directions

1. To make the infused Aperol, I combine sliced strawberries and Aperol in a jar, seal it, and let it sit for 24–48 hours. I strain out the fruit before using.
2. For the simple syrup, I combine sugar and water in a small saucepan, heating until the sugar dissolves. I let it cool completely.
3. To make the cocktail, I add infused Aperol, gin, elderflower liqueur, simple syrup, and lemon juice to a shaker filled with ice.
4. I shake until well chilled and strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.
5. I garnish with a fresh strawberry for a vibrant finish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one cocktail. The infusion takes me 1–2 days, but the actual mixing only takes about 5 minutes once everything is prepared.

Variations

Sometimes I top the cocktail with prosecco or soda water for a spritz-style version. If I want more floral notes, I increase the elderflower liqueur slightly. For a tarter drink, I add a splash of grapefruit juice.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the strawberry-infused Aperol sealed in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The simple syrup also stores well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The cocktail itself should always be made fresh.

FAQs

How long should I infuse the Aperol?

I usually infuse it for 24–48 hours longer makes the flavor stronger but can also darken the color.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the infusion?

Yes, frozen strawberries work just as well and sometimes release flavor even faster.

What type of gin works best?

I like a dry gin that balances the sweetness and floral notes, but a more botanical gin also works well.

Can I skip the elderflower liqueur?

Yes, but I find it adds a delicate floral touch that really elevates the cocktail.

Can I make this as a batch cocktail?

Yes, I multiply the recipe, mix in a pitcher, and keep it chilled until serving.

Can I make it less sweet?

Yes, I reduce the simple syrup or increase the lemon juice for more tartness.

What glass should I serve it in?

I prefer a coupe or Nick & Nora glass, but a rocks glass over ice also works.

Can I garnish with something other than strawberries?

Yes, I sometimes use a lemon twist or even edible flowers for a pretty finish.

How do I make it sparkling?

I top the finished cocktail with prosecco or soda water for a bubbly variation.

Can I use Aperol without infusing it?

Yes, but the strawberry infusion adds a unique sweetness and fruity note that makes the drink special.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Aperol Cocktail is one of my favorite ways to enjoy Aperol in a new and refreshing way. I love how the infusion highlights the fruit while balancing with gin, elderflower, and citrus. It’s a beautiful cocktail for warm weather, celebrations, or anytime I want something elegant and bright.

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