I have a soft spot for Aperol Spritz, and I’ll never turn down a classic margarita. So, when I discovered the Aperol Margarita, it felt like discovering a hidden gem in my own backyard!
This delightful cocktail combines the bright, zesty flavors of a traditional margarita with the bitter-sweet charm of Aperol. The result is a refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re unwinding after a long day or celebrating with friends.
Imagine the vibrant orange notes of Aperol mingling with the tangy kick of lime and the smoothness of tequila. It’s a match made in cocktail heaven that’s as fun to make as it is to sip. Cheers to blending the best of both worlds!
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Can You Use Aperol in a Margarita?
The Aperol Margarita is a vibrant twist on the classic margarita, adding the unique flavor of Aperol to the mix. Here’s what you need to make it:
- Tequila – Start with a good-quality blanco tequila. It’s the base of this cocktail, so choose one you enjoy drinking on its own. Lalo Blanco Tequila is one of my go-to’s.
- Aperol – This bright orange liqueur brings a bitter-sweet, slightly herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with the tang of lime. It’s the star of the show in this recipe!
- Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice adds the perfect amount of tartness. It balances out the sweetness of the Aperol and the richness of the tequila.
- Simple Syrup – A touch of simple syrup or Agave Nectar helps to sweeten the drink and mellow the flavors. Adjust the amount to your taste, but start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Orange Liqueur – Adding a splash of orange liqueur (like Cointreau or triple sec) enhances the citrus notes and complements the Aperol.
- Salt – For rimming the glass! Coarse sea salt or margarita salt adds a nice touch of flavor and texture. You can also use kosher salt.
- Ice – This cocktail is best served chilled, so fill your glass with ice before pouring in your ingredients.
To make your Aperol Margarita, rub the rim of your glass with a lime wedge, then dip it in a small plate of salt. In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, Aperol, lime juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into your prepared glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wheel or an orange twist. Enjoy this delightful blend of citrusy, sweet, and slightly bitter flavors!
Find the full recipe with measurements below.
Aperol Margarita Variations
Aperol Margarita Variations:
- Strawberry Aperol Margarita: Muddle fresh strawberries in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. This will infuse the cocktail with a sweet, fruity flavor that complements the Aperol and lime, creating a vibrant and refreshing drink.
- Coconut Aperol Margarita: For a tropical twist, add a splash of coconut cream to your mix. This creamy addition pairs nicely with the bitter-sweet Aperol and adds a rich, smooth texture to your margarita.
- Peach Aperol Margarita: Use fresh peach juice or muddle ripe peaches in the shaker. This variation brings a juicy, sweet flavor that blends perfectly with the Aperol and lime, making for a fruity and delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Aperol margarita
Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 1 oz Aperol
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur (Cointreau or triple sec)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Salt for rimming the glass
- Ice
Instructions
- Rub the rim of your glass with a lime wedge and dip it in salt to coat.
- In a shaker, combine tequila, Aperol, lime juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup with ice.
- Shake well and strain into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or an orange twist.
Cheers! Enjoy your refreshing cocktail!
