Rosemary Cranberry Aperol Spritz: The Perfect Festive Cocktail for the Holidays

There are some flavors that just feel like the holidays are knocking on the door. For me, that’s the tart, vibrant taste of cranberry. Last year, my sister hosted a little pre-Thanksgiving get-together. The air was crisp, the house smelled like sage and roasting turkey, and she handed me this gorgeous, sunset-hued drink in a big wine glass. It was an Aperol Spritz, but not like any I’d had before.

She had added a splash of cranberry juice, turning the classic summer sipper into something perfect for fall. I was instantly in love. The tartness of the cranberry cut through the sweetness of the Aperol beautifully. Of course, my mind immediately started tinkering. I went home that night thinking about how I could put my own little spin on this brilliant idea to make a truly special Cranberry Aperol Spritz.

I thought about what pairs well with cranberry. My mind landed on those lovely, woodsy herbs we all use in our holiday cooking. Rosemary was the answer. A homemade rosemary simple syrup would add a fragrant, slightly savory note to balance all that fruity tartness. After a few tries, I landed on this exact recipe. It’s festive, it’s sophisticated, and it’s just the thing to make any gathering feel a little more special.

This drink has become my official kick-off to the holiday season. I hope it becomes one of yours, too.

Skip to My Special Recipe!

Why This Cranberry Aperol Spritz Recipe Works

The classic Aperol Spritz is a beloved Italian cocktail for a reason. Its iconic 3-2-1 formula of Prosecco, Aperol, and soda water is bubbly, refreshing, and has just the right touch of bittersweet orange. It’s the quintessential summer afternoon drink, evoking sunshine and leisurely chats on a patio. It’s simple, elegant, and almost impossible to get wrong. The beautiful orange hue is instantly recognizable and has become a symbol of relaxed sophistication across the globe.

This recipe takes that fantastic foundation and dresses it up for the cooler months. Adding cranberry juice is a game-changer. It introduces a tart, festive flavor that immediately makes the drink feel right at home on a Thanksgiving or Christmas table. The deep red of the cranberry blends with the orange Aperol to create a stunning jewel-toned cocktail that looks as good as it tastes. It bridges the gap between seasons perfectly.

But the real magic, the element that makes this Cranberry Aperol Spritz recipe stand out, is the rosemary simple syrup. This isn’t just a simple mix of sugar and water. Infusing it with fresh rosemary adds an incredible aromatic depth. The piney, herbal notes of the rosemary are a classic companion to cranberry. It cuts through the sweetness of the Aperol and the tartness of the juice, adding a sophisticated, savory layer that keeps you coming back for another sip.

It transforms the drink from a simple mixture into a well-balanced, craft cocktail experience. The subtle hint of rosemary on the finish is unexpected but delightful, making the entire drink more memorable. It’s this thoughtful touch that elevates the recipe from a good idea to an absolute must-try for your next holiday gathering.

Ingredients for Cranberry Aperol Spritz

Gathering your ingredients for this cocktail is like assembling a palette for a beautiful holiday painting. Each component plays a vital role in the final flavor and appearance. Here is everything you will need to create this festive drink.

• For the Rosemary Simple Syrup:
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• For the Spritz:
  • 3 oz Prosecco, chilled
  • 2 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz 100% unsweetened cranberry juice
  • 1/2 oz rosemary simple syrup
  • 1 oz club soda, chilled (optional, for a lighter spritz)
  • Ice
• For Garnish:
  • 1 fresh rosemary sprig
  • A few fresh cranberries
  • 1 thin orange slice

The key ingredient that truly makes this recipe shine is the rosemary simple syrup. Don’t be tempted to skip it or use plain simple syrup. The fresh, earthy aroma of rosemary is essential for balancing the other flavors. Use fresh, green sprigs for the best and most vibrant flavor infusion.

When it comes to the cranberry juice, quality matters. Look for 100% unsweetened cranberry juice, not cranberry cocktail. The cocktail versions are loaded with extra sugar and water, which will throw off the balance of the drink and make it overly sweet. You want that pure, tart cranberry punch.

For the Prosecco, I recommend using a Brut or Extra Dry variety. These are drier and less sweet, which is perfect for a spritz. You want the Prosecco to add crispness and bubbles, not an overwhelming sweetness. Make sure it’s well-chilled before you start building your cocktail to keep everything cold and refreshing.

And of course, there’s the Aperol. This classic Italian aperitif is the heart of any spritz. Its signature flavor profile of bitter orange, rhubarb, and herbs is irreplaceable. While other aperitifs exist, Aperol provides that specific, familiar taste that makes a spritz a spritz.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Cranberry Aperol Spritz

Making this gorgeous cocktail is incredibly simple. It’s mostly about assembly, but preparing the simple syrup ahead of time is the key. Let’s walk through it step by step, so you can craft the perfect holiday spritz with confidence.

Step 1: Prepare the Rosemary Simple Syrup

This is where the magic begins. In a small saucepan, combine your half cup of water and half cup of granulated sugar. Place it over medium heat. You’ll want to stir it gently with a spoon or a whisk just until you see that all the sugar has completely dissolved into the water. Don’t walk away during this part, as it happens quickly. The moment it’s dissolved and just starting to simmer, remove the pan from the heat. Add your two sprigs of fresh rosemary directly into the hot syrup. Give them a little push to make sure they’re submerged. Now, just let it sit. I recommend letting it steep for at least 30 minutes to get a good rosemary flavor, but if you have an hour, that’s even better. Once it’s cooled to room temperature, you can remove and discard the rosemary sprigs. You can make this syrup a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Step 2: Build Your Spritz

Now for the fun part. Grab a large wine glass or a dedicated spritz glass. The larger size is important because you need plenty of room for ice and all the beautiful ingredients without it overflowing. Fill the glass generously with ice, all the way to the top. This keeps the drink ice-cold and slows down dilution. First, pour in the 2 ounces of Aperol. Next, add the 1 ounce of unsweetened cranberry juice and the half ounce of your beautifully infused rosemary simple syrup. Give these ingredients a quick, gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine them at the bottom of the glass.

Step 3: Top with Bubbles and Garnish

This is the final touch that brings the spritz to life. Gently pour the 3 ounces of chilled Prosecco over the mixture. I like to tilt the glass slightly as I pour, just like you would with a beer, to preserve as many of those lovely bubbles as possible. If you prefer a slightly lighter, less boozy drink, you can add a splash, about 1 ounce, of chilled club soda on top. Do not stir after adding the Prosecco. The act of pouring it in will mix the drink sufficiently. Now, for the garnish. Nestle a fresh sprig of rosemary alongside a few fresh cranberries and a thin slice of orange into the glass. The garnish isn’t just for looks; the aroma of the fresh rosemary and orange will greet you with every sip.

How To Serve Cranberry Aperol Spritz

Serving this Cranberry Aperol Spritz is all about embracing its festive and elegant character. It’s a drink that deserves to be shown off a bit, and the right presentation can make it feel even more special for you and your guests. The best vessel is a large, balloon-style wine glass or a specific spritz glass. This shape provides ample room for ice, allows the vibrant color to shine, and helps concentrate the lovely aromas of rosemary and orange from the garnish right under your nose with every sip.

This cocktail is wonderfully versatile, fitting in perfectly at a variety of occasions. It’s an ideal welcome drink for Thanksgiving dinner, setting a sophisticated tone without being too heavy. It’s also a showstopper at Christmas parties, holiday open houses, or even a festive brunch. I also love making one for myself on a quiet evening at home, curled up by the fire. It feels like a small, personal celebration.

When thinking about what to serve alongside it, think of foods that complement its bittersweet and tart flavors. Salty and savory bites are a perfect match. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• A beautiful charcuterie board with cured meats like prosciutto and salami, along with a variety of cheeses, especially salty ones like parmesan or creamy ones like brie.
• A simple bowl of mixed olives and seasoned nuts.
• Savory appetizers like baked brie with fig jam, sausage-stuffed mushrooms, or crispy bruschetta topped with a simple tomato and basil mixture.
• For a sweeter pairing, try shortbread cookies or a simple pound cake, which won’t compete with the complexity of the drink.

Ultimately, the goal is to let the cocktail be the star. Simple, elegant, and flavorful accompaniments are all you need to create a truly memorable experience for your guests. Present it with a smile, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

How To Store & Reuse Cranberry Aperol Spritz Leftovers

Let’s be honest, a spritz is a drink that’s truly at its best the moment it’s made. The magic is in the fizz from the freshly opened Prosecco, and that’s something that just doesn’t last. Once it’s mixed, a Cranberry Aperol Spritz should be enjoyed right away. Trying to store a fully assembled spritz in the fridge will only lead to a flat, sad version of its former self the next day. So, my primary advice is to make them to order.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t be smart about preparation, especially if you’re hosting a party. You can absolutely prep the components ahead of time to make assembly quick and easy. The rosemary simple syrup is the perfect make-ahead element. It can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container, like a mason jar, in the refrigerator. The flavor will remain potent and delicious.

If you have leftover ingredients that haven’t been mixed, that’s a different story. Here’s how to handle them:

• Rosemary Simple Syrup: As mentioned, this stores beautifully in the fridge. If you have extra, don’t let it go to waste. You can use it to sweeten iced tea, lemonade, or even drizzle it over a fruit salad or pound cake for a unique flavor twist. It’s also fantastic in other cocktails, like a Gin & Tonic or a Vodka Soda.
• Prosecco: The bubbles in an open bottle of Prosecco will dissipate quickly. The best way to preserve them for a day or so is with a specialized sparkling wine stopper. These create a tight seal that helps keep the fizz locked in.
• Aperol and Cranberry Juice: Both of these are shelf-stable before opening. Once opened, they should be stored in the refrigerator with their caps on tightly. They will last for quite some time, ready for your next spritz craving.

For party-prepping, you can mix the Aperol, cranberry juice, and rosemary simple syrup together in a pitcher and keep it chilled. When your guests arrive, simply fill glasses with ice, pour in your pre-mixed base, and top each glass with Prosecco right before serving. This gives you a fresh, bubbly drink for everyone without having to measure out individual ingredients each time.

Substitutions & Variations For Cranberry Aperol Spritz

One of the best things about a great recipe is its ability to be a starting point for your own creativity. While I adore this Cranberry Aperol Spritz just as it is, there are plenty of ways to tweak it to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand. It’s a very forgiving and adaptable cocktail, so don’t be afraid to experiment a little. Whether you’re looking for a different flavor profile or need to accommodate a dietary preference, I’ve got you covered with some wonderful ideas.

If you’re looking to play with the core flavors, there are several fun swaps you can make. The world of Italian aperitifs is vast, and the simple syrup is a blank canvas for herbal infusions. Consider these variations:

• Swap the Aperitif: If you find Aperol a bit too sweet, try using Campari instead. It has a more pronounced bitterness and a deeper red color that would be stunning with cranberry. For a lighter, more floral note, an elderflower liqueur like St-Germain could be used, though you might want to reduce the simple syrup.
• Change the Herb: Rosemary is classic, but other woody herbs work beautifully. Try making your simple syrup with fresh thyme or even a few sage leaves for a different kind of savory, holiday-inspired aroma. A cinnamon stick infused in the syrup would also be a wonderfully warm and spicy variation.
• Try a Different Juice: While cranberry is the star, you could easily substitute it with 100% unsweetened pomegranate juice for a similar tartness and beautiful color. In the deep winter months, blood orange juice would also be a fantastic choice, complementing the orange notes in the Aperol.
• Make it a Mocktail: For a delicious non-alcoholic version, you can replace the Aperol with a non-alcoholic bitter orange aperitif, which are becoming more widely available. Swap the Prosecco for a good quality sparkling cider, sparkling cranberry juice, or a non-alcoholic sparkling white wine. You still get all the festive flavor without the alcohol.

Don’t hesitate to play around with the garnishes as well. A long, elegant orange peel twist or some sugared cranberries can add an extra touch of visual flair. The goal is to make a drink that you truly love to sip and share.

5 FAQs About Cranberry Aperol Spritz

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about this Cranberry Aperol Spritz recipe.

Can I make a large batch of Cranberry Aperol Spritz for a party?

Yes, you absolutely can, and it’s a fantastic idea for streamlining your hosting duties. However, you should not mix the entire batch with the Prosecco ahead of time, as it will lose all its delightful carbonation. The best way to prepare a large batch is to create a “spritz base” in a large pitcher.

To do this, calculate the amount you’ll need based on your number of guests. For example, for 8 servings, you would combine 16 ounces (2 cups) of Aperol, 8 ounces (1 cup) of unsweetened cranberry juice, and 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of your pre-made and cooled rosemary simple syrup in a pitcher. Stir it all together and keep the pitcher chilled in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before your party starts. When guests are ready for a drink, simply fill individual glasses with ice, pour your prepared base to fill the glass about halfway, and then top each one off with chilled Prosecco right before serving. This method ensures every single drink is fresh and bubbly.

What is the best type of Prosecco for a Cranberry Aperol Spritz?

The choice of Prosecco can have a noticeable impact on the final taste of your spritz. I strongly recommend using a “Brut” or “Extra Dry” Prosecco. These terms can be a little confusing, but in the world of sparkling wine, Brut is drier than Extra Dry, and both are drier than “Dry.” You want a drier Prosecco because the Aperol and the simple syrup already contribute sweetness to the cocktail. A dry, crisp Prosecco will provide a clean, bubbly lift and balance, preventing the drink from becoming cloyingly sweet.

Look for a bottle from the Valdobbiadene region in Italy for a high-quality option, but any well-regarded Brut Prosecco will work wonderfully. The key is to avoid sweeter sparkling wines like Asti Spumante, as they will throw off the delicate sweet-bitter-tart balance we’re aiming for in this recipe.

Is Aperol very bitter, and what does it taste like in this Cranberry Aperol Spritz?

Aperol is classified as a bitter aperitif, but it’s on the much milder and sweeter end of the spectrum compared to its more intense cousin, Campari. Its dominant flavors are bright, zesty orange, along with hints of rhubarb, gentian root, and other botanicals. The bitterness is present, but it’s more of a pleasant, palate-cleansing note rather than an overwhelming or aggressive flavor. Many people describe it as a “gateway” bitter liqueur because it’s so approachable.

In this Cranberry Aperol Spritz, the Aperol’s bitterness is beautifully balanced. The tartness of the 100% cranberry juice cuts through its sweetness, while the rosemary simple syrup adds an herbal sweetness that complements the botanical notes in the Aperol itself. The result is a wonderfully complex but harmonious drink. You get the orange notes from the Aperol, the sharp fruitiness from the cranberry, and a fragrant, earthy finish from the rosemary. The bitterness is there, but it’s just one part of a much larger, delicious picture.

Can I make this Cranberry Aperol Spritz recipe without the rosemary simple syrup?

You can certainly make a version of this drink without the rosemary simple syrup, but it will be a different experience. If you’re short on time, you could use a plain simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) or even a small amount of agave nectar or maple syrup to add a touch of sweetness to balance the tart cranberry juice. Your drink would still be a tasty cranberry spritz.

However, I have to say that the rosemary-infused syrup is what truly elevates this recipe and makes it special. The aromatic, slightly piney, and savory notes of the rosemary are the “secret ingredient” that adds a layer of sophistication and a distinct holiday feel. It’s that unexpected herbal note on the finish that makes people say, “Wow, what is in this?” If you have the extra 30 minutes to let the rosemary steep, I highly encourage you not to skip this step. It’s worth the small amount of effort.

What food pairs well with a Cranberry Aperol Spritz?

This cocktail is a fantastic aperitif, which means it’s designed to be enjoyed before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Its bittersweet and bubbly nature makes it a perfect partner for a wide array of appetizers and snacks, particularly those that are salty, fatty, or savory. The saltiness of food is a wonderful counterpoint to the bittersweet character of the drink.

Think about a classic cheese and charcuterie board. Cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and soppressata are excellent pairings. For cheeses, try creamy brie or camembert, sharp aged cheddar, or salty bites of Parmesan. Olives, roasted nuts, and savory crackers are also a great match. For something a little more substantial, consider fried appetizers like arancini (fried risotto balls) or crispy calamari. The spritz’s acidity and bubbles will cut right through the richness. It’s also delightful with baked brie topped with fig jam or small crostini with various savory toppings.

Try These Recipes Next

If you loved the festive flavors in this spritz, I think you’ll really enjoy some of my other holiday-inspired cocktail creations.

• Easy Cranberry Margarita: A tart and tangy twist on the classic margarita, perfect for Thanksgiving.
• Spiced Cranberry Yule Mule: A warm and spicy version of a Moscow Mule, full of Christmas cheer.
• Strawberry Lime Mint Spritzers: When you’re ready for warmer weather again, this bright and refreshing spritzer is just the ticket.

I hope you have fun mixing up these drinks for your friends and family!