Looking for the ultimate summer cocktail to elevate your warm-weather gatherings? Meet the Summer Spritz — a vibrant, fruit-forward twist on the classic Aperol Spritz that’s as refreshing as it is eye-catching. This easy-to-make cocktail blends the bittersweet notes of Aperol with the lush, fruity flavor of homemade strawberry syrup and the crisp effervescence of dry prosecco.
Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, the Summer Spritz is a deliciously Instagram-worthy drink that delivers seasonal flair with every sip. Refreshing, slightly sweet, and beautifully balanced — it’s your new go-to summer cocktail.
Why you’ll love the Summer Spritz🍓
- Light & Refreshing: Perfect for hot days, this spritz is crisp, slightly sweet, and wonderfully bubbly.
- Seasonal Flavor: The homemade strawberry syrup adds a fresh, fruity twist that feels just right for summer.
- Simple Ingredients: With just Aperol, strawberry syrup, dry prosecco, and a lemon twist, it’s easy to make but tastes like something you’d order at a high-end cocktail bar.
- Eye-Catching Color: Its vibrant red-orange hue makes it as beautiful as it is delicious — ideal for impressing guests or sharing on social media.
- Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Whether served at brunch, happy hour, or a backyard BBQ, this cocktail is a guaranteed hit.
Ingredients needed
- 2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz strawberry syrup*
- 3-4 oz prosecco
- Club soda, to top off
- Lemon twist
- *strawberry syrup
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 lemon, juiced
Step by step instructions
Note: Find the full ingredient measurements and instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of this page.
For the strawberry syrup:
- Add strawberries, water, sugar, lemon juice to a small saucepan and bring to a boil until sugar has completely dissolved. Reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain into a glass container.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes prior to use in cocktail.
For the cocktail:
- Add ice to cocktail glass.
- Add Aperol and strawberry syrup. Stir to combine.
- Top with prosecco and give it another stir.
- Garnish with a lemon twist. Enjoy!
Frequently asked questions
What kind of prosecco should I use?
For the best balance, choose a dry prosecco (look for “Brut” or “Extra Brut” on the label). The dryness complements the sweetness of the strawberry syrup and the bittersweet Aperol.
Can I use store-bought strawberry syrup?
Yes! While homemade strawberry syrup offers the freshest flavor, a high-quality store-bought version works just fine if you’re short on time.
Is this cocktail very sweet?
Not overly. The Aperol brings a pleasant bitterness, the strawberry syrup adds subtle sweetness, and the dry prosecco balances everything out. You can adjust the syrup amount if you prefer it less sweet.
Can I make this cocktail in a batch for a party?
Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings, mix everything in a large pitcher (except prosecco), and chill. Add prosecco just before serving to keep the spritz bubbly and fresh.
What type of cocktail glass should I serve it in?
A wine glass or stemmed spritz glass works best — it allows the aromas to open up while keeping the presentation elegant and summery.
Tips for the best Summer Spritz
- Chill Everything First
For maximum refreshment, make sure your Aperol, prosecco, and even your glass are chilled before serving. - Use Fresh Strawberry Syrup
Homemade strawberry syrup gives you the brightest, juiciest flavor. - Go Dry with the Prosecco
Choose a dry (Brut) prosecco to balance out the sweetness of the syrup and enhance the bittersweet Aperol. Avoid overly sweet sparkling wines unless you’re aiming for dessert vibes. - Don’t Skip the Lemon Twist
That citrusy twist isn’t just for looks — it adds a zesty aroma that brings the whole drink to life. Use a vegetable peeler for a clean, elegant peel. - Serve Immediately
This drink is best enjoyed right after it’s made while the prosecco is fizzy and the ice is fresh. Make it to order or prep everything in advance and add the bubbly just before serving.
Did you make this?
Please rate the recipe and leave a comment below. This helps other readers decide if this is a great recipe to bake. Be sure to tag me on Instagram using @schmidtybakes so I can see. I love to see what you’re baking!
Summer Spritz
Ingredients
For the cocktail
- 2 oz Aperol
- 1 oz strawberry syrup*
- 3-4 oz prosecco
- club soda (to top off)
- lemon twist
For the strawberry syrup
- 2 cups strawberries (hulled and halved)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 lemon (juiced)
Instructions
For the strawberry syrup
- Add strawberries, water, sugar, lemon juice to a small saucepan and bring to a boil until sugar has completely dissolved. Reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain into a glass container.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes prior to use in cocktail.
For the cocktail
- Add ice to cocktail glass.
- Add Aperol and strawberry syrup. Stir to combine.
- Top with prosecco and give it another stir.
- Garnish with a lemon twist. Enjoy!
The nutrition facts provided are calculated using a third-party tool and are estimates only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, as well as portion sizes. For accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist.
