Aperol Spritz Without Prosecco: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Cocktail

The Aperol Spritz is one of the most iconic and refreshing cocktails around, typically made with Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda water. However, what if you’re craving this delicious drink but don’t have Prosecco on hand, or maybe you prefer a different twist on the classic recipe? Aperol Spritz without Prosecco is the perfect solution to mix things up, and there are several ways to create a delicious variation of this popular cocktail. In this post, we’ll explore how to make an Aperol Spritz without Prosecco, alternative ingredients to use, and some fun variations that will keep your summer sipping exciting.

What is an Aperol Spritz?

Before diving into how to make an Aperol Spritz without Prosecco, let’s take a quick look at the classic Aperol Spritz. This cocktail originated in Italy and has become a beloved summer drink worldwide. The traditional recipe is simple: equal parts Aperol and Prosecco, topped with soda water, and garnished with an orange slice. The result is a light, refreshing drink that’s slightly bitter from the Aperol and bubbly from the Prosecco, with a lovely citrusy finish from the orange.

While Prosecco is a key component of the classic Aperol Spritz, there are many ways to get creative with the recipe, making it even more versatile for those who want to try something different.

Why Make an Aperol Spritz Without Prosecco?

There are several reasons why you might opt to make an Aperol Spritz without Prosecco:

1. No Prosecco Available: You may not have Prosecco on hand but still want to enjoy the refreshing flavors of an Aperol Spritz.
   
   

2. Non-Alcoholic Option: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version of the cocktail, skipping the Prosecco is a great way to create a delicious, sparkling drink without the booze.
   
   

3. Dietary Preferences: Some people might be avoiding the sugars or alcohol content in Prosecco but still want the classic Aperol flavors. A substitute can help cater to these preferences.
   
   

4. Exploration of Flavors: Substituting Prosecco allows you to experiment with different flavors and textures, creating a customized Aperol Spritz that suits your tastes.
   
   

Now that we know why you might want to skip the Prosecco, let’s look at how to make the perfect Aperol Spritz without Prosecco.

How to Make an Aperol Spritz Without Prosecco

Making an Aperol Spritz without Prosecco is easy, and the great thing is that you can substitute Prosecco with a variety of ingredients, each creating a different flavor profile. Here are a few options:

1. Use Sparkling Water or Club Soda

One of the simplest substitutes for Prosecco is sparkling water or club soda. This option retains the effervescence of the original drink, but without the alcohol or sweetness of Prosecco. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Aperol
  
  

• 4 oz sparkling water or club soda
  
  

• Orange slice (for garnish)
  
  

• Ice
  
  

Instructions:

1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
   
   

2. Pour in the Aperol.
   
   

3. Top with sparkling water or club soda.
   
   

4. Stir gently and garnish with a fresh orange slice.
   
   

This version is crisp, light, and perfect for a refreshing, alcohol-free option. The sparkling water brings the fizz, while the Aperol provides the signature bittersweet taste.

2. Use a Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine

If you're looking for something closer to the original Aperol Spritz without Prosecco but without the alcohol, a non-alcoholic sparkling wine can work wonders. Non-alcoholic sparkling wines have become more widely available, and they mimic the fizzy, bubbly texture of Prosecco without the booze. Simply replace Prosecco with a non-alcoholic sparkling wine in your recipe for a delightful alternative.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Aperol
  
  

• 4 oz non-alcoholic sparkling wine
  
  

• Orange slice (for garnish)
  
  

• Ice
  
  

Instructions:

1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
   
   

2. Pour in the Aperol.
   
   

3. Top with non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
   
   

4. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
   
   

This variation is perfect if you’re looking for a sophisticated, non-alcoholic version of the Aperol Spritz without Prosecco, as the sparkling wine adds depth and flavor while keeping the drink refreshing and bubbly.

3. Use Lemon-Lime Soda

For a sweeter, more vibrant alternative, consider substituting Prosecco with lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up). The sweetness of the soda balances the bitterness of the Aperol, giving the drink a fun twist that’s still refreshing. This is a great option if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile without completely losing the essence of the original cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Aperol
  
  

• 4 oz lemon-lime soda
  
  

• Orange slice (for garnish)
  
  

• Ice
  
  

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice.
   
   

2. Pour in the Aperol.
   
   

3. Top with lemon-lime soda.
   
   

4. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
   
   

The soda adds an extra level of sweetness, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a fruity, easy-to-drink variation of the Aperol Spritz.

4. Try Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer

For a spicier version, swap Prosecco with ginger ale or ginger beer. The subtle spiciness from the ginger ale or the stronger kick from ginger beer complements the Aperol's bitterness, creating a unique and flavorful drink. Ginger beer is particularly great if you enjoy a more robust flavor with a slight bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Aperol
  
  

• 4 oz ginger ale or ginger beer
  
  

• Orange slice (for garnish)
  
  

• Ice
  
  

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice.
   
   

2. Pour in the Aperol.
   
   

3. Top with ginger ale or ginger beer.
   
   

4. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
   
   

This variation of Aperol Spritz without Prosecco offers a spicy twist that adds depth and complexity to the drink, making it a great option for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Tips for Making the Best Aperol Spritz Without Prosecco

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh oranges add a nice touch of citrus and brighten up the drink, making it feel more refreshing.
  
  

• Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on the substitute you choose, you might want to adjust the sweetness. If the alternative is too sweet, try adding a splash of soda water to balance it out.
  
  

• Chill Your Ingredients: For the best experience, ensure your Aperol and substitute are chilled before mixing. This keeps the drink cold and refreshing without having to overload it with ice.
  
  

• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding a sprig of rosemary or mint as a garnish. The herbs bring an aromatic element that complements the Aperol’s bitterness.
  
  

Conclusion

If you’re craving the taste of an Aperol Spritz without Prosecco, you have plenty of options to create a refreshing, delightful drink. Whether you choose to substitute with sparkling water, non-alcoholic wine, lemon-lime soda, or even ginger ale, each variation offers a new twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. You can make the drink lighter, sweeter, or spicier, depending on your preference.

For more creative cocktail ideas, recipes, and entertaining tips, visit Scrappy Geek. Cheers to a perfect Aperol Spritz, no Prosecco required!