Apple Cider Aperol Spritz Recipe from Champlain Orchard VT

Fall evenings in Vermont call for something special in your glass. We started experimenting with our fresh-pressed cider in the tasting room last autumn, mixing it with Aperol and prosecco. The result? An apple cider aperol spritz that quickly became our staff's go-to drink after long harvest days.

Image of an Apple Cider Aperol Spritz and a "Fun Fact" stating its cozy fall twist on a classic Italian aperitif.

Our orchard crew first discovered that the natural tartness of our Vermont cider creates the perfect balance with Aperol's bitter-sweet profile. Plus, it's a breeze to make - just what you need when you're craving something a bit more elevated than plain apple cider but don't want to fuss with complicated ingredients. The best part? You can use either a regular cider or our hard cider version for an extra kick.

I. Ingredients & Equipment to Make an Apple Cider Aperol Spritz

A quick note before diving into measurements - you probably have most of what you need in your kitchen already. The only special item here is Aperol, which you'll find at most liquor stores. Let's break this down into exactly what you'll need:

1. The Essentials

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Fresh Apple Cider	2 oz	Room temperature works best
Aperol	2 oz	The bright orange Italian aperitif
Prosecco	3 oz	Any dry prosecco will do
Club Soda	1 splash	Just enough for extra fizz
Ice	As needed	Large cubes preferred

2. For Garnishing

Optional Add-ons	Purpose
Apple Slices	Thin slices from any crisp apple
Cinnamon Stick	Adds aroma and stirring power
Fresh Thyme	For an herbal note
Orange Wheel	Traditional Aperol garnish

3. Tools You'll Need

Must-Haves	Nice-to-Haves
Large Wine Glass	Cocktail Jigger
Long Spoon	Cutting Board & Knife
Ice Bucket	Citrus Peeler

The beauty of this drink lies in its simplicity - no fancy bar tools required. Though if you're planning to make these regularly, a jigger helps with consistent measurements. Keep your cider fresh and your prosecco cold, and you're all set for mixing.

II. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Apple Cider Aperol Spritz

Creating the perfect apple cider aperol spritz is all about the build. We've learned through countless tastings that the order of ingredients matters - it's what keeps the drink layered and beautiful right until the last sip.

1. The Basic Build

Steps	Actions	Pro Tips
1. Prep Your Glass	Fill a large wine glass with ice	Use large ice cubes - they melt slower and won't water down your drink
2. Pour the Base	Add 2 oz Aperol	Pour slowly against a spoon to create a nice layering effect
3. Add the Cider	Pour in 2 oz apple cider	Fresh-pressed cider gives the best flavor
4. Top with Bubbles	Add 3 oz prosecco and a splash of soda	Don't stir yet!
5. Garnish	Add your chosen garnishes	Apple slices and thyme make it distinctly Vermont
6. Final Touch	Gentle stir, just once	This preserves the bubbles

2. Pro Tips from Our Tasting Room

Temperature Matters: Keep your prosecco and soda water well-chilled, but let the cider come closer to room temperature to release its full flavor profile.
Timing is Everything: Mix just before serving - this drink is best enjoyed fresh while the bubbles are lively.
Glassware Guide: A large wine glass isn't just for show - it captures the aromas and lets you appreciate the layers of flavor.

3. Garnish Your Aperol Like a Pro

Garnish	Technique
Apple Slices	Cut paper-thin with skin on
Cinnamon Stick	Place vertically as a stirrer
Thyme Sprig	Gently slap between palms to release oils
Orange Wheel	Float on top for traditional touch

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Too Sweet? Add an extra splash of soda water
Too Bitter? A touch more apple cider balances it out
Lost its Fizz? Start fresh - this cocktail is about the effervescence

Want to make this for a crowd? Just multiply the ingredients, but mix individual glasses to order - it's worth the extra minute to maintain that perfect balance of flavors and bubbles.

Recipe for an Apple Cider Aperol Spritz. Includes ingredient list, preparation instructions, and garnishing options, next to a full glass with orange slices.

III. Customization & Serving Suggestions For Apple Cider Aperol Spritz

After months of serving these at our orchard events, we've discovered some winning variations and food pairings. The apple cider aperol spritz adapts beautifully to different seasons and occasions.

1. Seasonal Adaptations

Season	Special Touch	Notes
Fall	Add a dash of boiled cider syrup	Deepens the apple flavor
Winter	Float a star anise pod	Adds warming spice notes
Spring	Add fresh mint leaves	Brightens the profile
Summer	Freeze cider into ice cubes	Keeps drink cold without diluting

2. Perfect Pairings

The key to pairing food with this cocktail is balancing its sweet-bitter profile. Here's what works best:

Category	Suggestions	Why It Works
Cheese	Sharp Vermont cheddar	Cuts through the sweetness
Savory	Roasted nuts	Complements the bitter notes
Sweet	Apple cider muffins	Echoes the cider notes
Appetizers	Prosciutto-wrapped apples	Sweet-salt balance

IV. Tips for the Perfect Serve

Let's talk about making your apple cider aperol spritz truly memorable:

Glass Prep: Chill glasses in the freezer for 5 minutes
Ice Strategy: Use one large cube plus smaller ones
Timing: Mix just as guests arrive - the first sip should have maximum fizz
Temperature: Keep ingredients cold, but never frozen

1. Make-Ahead Prep

Can Prep Ahead	Must Be Fresh
Sliced garnishes (stored in water)	Prosecco pour
Chilled glasses	Club soda splash
Apple cider syrup reduction	Final mix

Conclusion:

Your perfect apple cider aperol spritz comes down to quality ingredients and careful attention to detail. We've spent years perfecting our cider at Champlain Orchards, pressing apples from our eco-certified orchards to create that ideal balance of sweetness and acidity that makes this cocktail sing.

Calyx Hibiscus Semi-Sweet Hard Cider by Champlain Orchards. Order now!

Ready to craft your own orchard-inspired cocktails? Start with the best ingredients - our fresh-pressed cider makes all the difference. Browse our collection of orchard-fresh products, from classic sweet cider to our award-winning hard ciders. We'll deliver the orchard to your door, so you can focus on the fun part - mixing, garnishing, and enjoying your perfectly crafted drinks.

For more apple cider recipes and cocktail ideas, join our orchard community on Instagram @ChamplainOrchards where we share seasonal recipes and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life on our Vermont farm.

Apple Cider Aperol Spritz Recipe: A 5-Minute Vermont-Inspired Cocktail