Aperol Mimosa: Your Ultimate Guide to a Sparkling Italian Brunch Cocktail

If you love the effervescent charm of a classic mimosa and are drawn to the signature bittersweet notes of Aperol, then prepare to meet your new favorite brunch cocktail: the **Aperol Mimosa!** This isn’t just a drink; it’s a golden ray of sunshine in a glass, an elegant upgrade that promises to brighten any gathering.

This gorgeous cocktail perfectly blends the sweet, citrusy zest of fresh orange juice with the vibrant bubbles of Prosecco, all uplifted by Aperol’s unmistakable bittersweet, herbal kick. It’s a delightful fusion that elevates the simple mimosa into something truly special and sophisticated, yet remarkably easy to create.

Whether you’re hosting a fabulous Mother’s Day brunch, toasting to National Mimosa Day on May 16, or simply soaking up the sunshine on a leisurely weekend morning, this vibrant cocktail is an absolute **must-try!** Its stunning sunrise-orange hue and refreshing flavor make it an instant showstopper at any occasion.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Aperol Mimosa

What makes this Aperol Mimosa destined to become your new go-to brunch drink? It’s a delightful twist on the classic mimosa, but with an added layer of complexity and a captivating vibrancy:

• Bold and Balanced Flavor: Unlike a traditional mimosa, the Aperol introduces a sophisticated bittersweet edge that perfectly complements the sweetness of orange juice. It’s an intriguing blend that keeps you coming back for more.
• Effortlessly Elegant: With its gorgeous, fiery orange color, this cocktail instantly elevates your brunch table, making any occasion feel more festive and chic.
• Incredibly Easy to Prepare: You don’t need to be a seasoned mixologist to whip up this drink. It’s literally just pour, gently stir, and enjoy! Perfect for entertaining when you want something impressive without the fuss.
• Perfect for Any Celebration: From casual weekend gatherings to special holidays, the Aperol Mimosa is versatile enough to suit any celebratory mood.
• Refreshing and Invigorating: The bubbles from the Prosecco combined with the fresh citrus and herbal notes of Aperol create a truly revitalizing drink that’s perfect for warm weather or simply brightening your day.

One sip, and you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making your mimosas this way all along. It’s a simple upgrade that delivers maximum impact!

Explore More Sparkling Drink Inspiration

Looking for more mimosa inspiration or just love Aperol cocktails? We’ve got you covered!

• Don’t miss my Mixed Berry Mimosa – a fruity, colorful spin on the classic that’s bursting with berry goodness.
• If you’re an Aperol enthusiast, you have to check out my festive Cranberry Aperol Spritz, perfect for Christmas or any winter celebration.
• And, of course, for a refreshing, anytime aperitif, the Classic Aperol Spritz is always a winner.

So, grab your Prosecco, shake up that orange juice, and let’s make a **fabulous Sunny Italian Mimosa** – because brunch should always come with a side of bubbles and a dash of Italian flair! 🥂✨

🎥 Video: Watch How to Make It!

🥘 Key Ingredients for Your Aperol Mimosa

Creating this irresistible Aperol Mimosa requires just a few simple, high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this cocktail lies in its simplicity and the balance of its components. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Aperol: This iconic Italian aperitif is the star of the show. Known for its bright orange color and unique bittersweet taste, Aperol provides the distinct herbal and zesty notes that differentiate this mimosa from the classic. Its lower alcohol content also makes it a perfect choice for daytime sipping.
• Fresh Orange Juice: For the best flavor, opt for freshly squeezed orange juice. It offers a brightness and natural sweetness that store-bought versions often lack. If fresh isn’t an option, choose a high-quality, 100% not-from-concentrate orange juice. You can also swap for **blood orange juice** for a deeper citrus flavor and an even more stunning ruby-orange hue.
• Chilled Prosecco or Champagne: The bubbly element is crucial! Prosecco is typically preferred for mimosas due to its slightly sweeter, fruitier profile and more accessible price point. However, a dry Brut Champagne also works beautifully if you prefer a less sweet drink with finer bubbles. Ensure your sparkling wine is thoroughly chilled to maintain its effervescence and keep your cocktail crisp.

For exact quantities and detailed nutritional information, please refer to the recipe card below.

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Aperol Mimosa

Making an Aperol Mimosa is incredibly simple, ensuring you spend more time enjoying and less time mixing. Follow these easy steps for a perfectly vibrant and delicious cocktail:

Step 1: The Flavor Foundation

Carefully pour the Aperol and fresh orange juice into a chilled champagne flute. Chilling your glass beforehand helps keep your drink colder for longer and preserves the bubbles. This vibrant duo forms the flavorful heart of your Aperol Mimosa, setting the stage for its unique taste.

Step 2: Add the Fizz

Gently top off the Aperol and orange juice mixture with chilled Prosecco or Champagne. Pour slowly and steadily to minimize foam and preserve as many bubbles as possible. Watch those delicate bubbles dance and transform your drink into a vibrant, sparkling masterpiece! The fizz adds that delightful sparkle and lightness we all love in a mimosa.

Step 3: Gentle Stirring

Give the cocktail a gentle stir using a bar spoon. Stir just enough to combine the Aperol and orange juice with the sparkling wine, but be careful not to over-stir, as this can cause the precious effervescence to dissipate too quickly. A few light swirls are all it takes!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your beautiful Aperol Mimosa with a fresh slice of orange or a delicate twist of orange peel. This not only adds an extra pop of color but also releases a lovely citrusy aroma, enhancing the overall drinking experience. The visual appeal is almost as important as the taste!

Step 5: Sip and Savor

Your elegant Aperol Mimosa is now ready! Serve immediately to enjoy its peak effervescence and vibrant flavors. Sip, enjoy, and let the delightful brunch vibes begin! 🥂✨ This simple ritual is perfect for starting your weekend on a high note.

Expert Tips for the Best Aperol Mimosa

While the Aperol Mimosa is wonderfully easy, a few simple tips can elevate your drink from good to absolutely fantastic:

• Chill Everything: This is paramount for any sparkling cocktail. Ensure your Aperol, orange juice, and especially your Prosecco or Champagne are thoroughly chilled. Even your champagne flutes can be placed in the freezer for 5-10 minutes before serving. This prevents dilution from ice and keeps your drink refreshingly cold and bubbly.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: Since there are only three main ingredients, the quality of each significantly impacts the final taste. Use freshly squeezed orange juice if possible, and a Prosecco you genuinely enjoy drinking on its own.
• The Perfect Ratio: The classic mimosa ratio is often 1:1 orange juice to sparkling wine. For an Aperol Mimosa, a common starting point is 1 part Aperol, 2 parts orange juice, and 3 parts Prosecco. However, feel free to adjust to your personal preference. If you like it less sweet, add more Aperol or use a drier Prosecco. If you prefer it sweeter, a splash more orange juice can help.
• Pour Gently: When adding the sparkling wine, tilt the glass slightly and pour slowly down the side. This technique helps preserve the carbonation, keeping your mimosa bubbly and lively.
• Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the garnish! An orange slice or twist not only looks beautiful but also adds an aromatic element that enhances the drinking experience.

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about the Aperol Mimosa is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or occasion:

• Blood Orange Mimosa: As mentioned, using blood orange juice adds a deeper, slightly tarter citrus note and a stunning, richer color.
• Grapefruit Aperol Mimosa: For a more tart and sophisticated twist, swap orange juice for fresh grapefruit juice. The bitterness of grapefruit pairs wonderfully with Aperol.
• Pineapple or Mango Mimosa: If you prefer a tropical sweetness, pineapple or mango juice can be a delightful substitute for orange juice.
• Herbaceous Twist: Muddle a few fresh mint leaves or a sprig of rosemary in the Aperol and orange juice before adding the Prosecco for an extra aromatic dimension.
• Stronger Kick: For those who prefer a more potent cocktail, add a small splash of vodka or gin to the Aperol and orange juice before topping with sparkling wine.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: To make a mocktail, simply omit the Aperol and use sparkling cider or sparkling water mixed with orange juice. You can also add a splash of non-alcoholic bitters for a similar complex flavor.
• Sugar Rim: For an extra touch of sweetness and sparkle, moisten the rim of your champagne flute and dip it in granulated sugar before pouring the drink.

Serving Suggestions: When and What to Pair It With

The Aperol Mimosa is incredibly versatile and shines in various settings. Here are some ideas for when and what to pair it with:

• Brunch Extravaganza: This is its natural habitat! Serve it with sweet brunch items like pancakes, waffles, and fruit tarts, or savory dishes such as quiches, eggs Benedict, and avocado toast.
• Special Celebrations: Elevate any event, from birthdays and anniversaries to bridal showers and graduations. Its vibrant color makes it perfect for a festive toast.
• Summer Refreshment: On a hot day, this bright and bubbly drink is incredibly refreshing, making it a fantastic choice for poolside lounging or patio parties.
• Light Appetizers: Pair it with light bites like bruschetta, mini caprese skewers, or a fresh fruit platter. Its bittersweet profile can cut through richer flavors and complement lighter ones.

Batching for a Crowd

Hosting a large brunch? You can easily prepare Aperol Mimosas for a crowd, but a little planning is key to keeping them bubbly and fresh:

• Pre-Mix the Aperol and Juice: In a large pitcher, combine the Aperol and orange juice. Do this up to a few hours in advance and keep it well-chilled in the refrigerator.
• Sparkling Wine Last: Do NOT add the Prosecco or Champagne until just before serving. Carbonation dissipates quickly, so adding it too early will result in flat mimosas.
• Set up a Mimosa Bar: For a fun and interactive approach, set out individual bottles of chilled Prosecco, your pre-mixed Aperol and orange juice, and a variety of garnishes (orange slices, berries, fresh herbs). Let your guests mix their own!

🍽 Essential Equipment

You don’t need a professional bar setup to make this cocktail. Here’s what will come in handy:

• Champagne glasses: Flutes or coupes are ideal for showing off the bubbles and color.
• Measuring tools / Jigger: For precise measurements, ensuring a balanced cocktail every time.
• Bar spoon: Essential for a gentle stir without losing carbonation.
• Sharp knife & cutting board: For preparing your orange garnishes safely and neatly.

If you make this Aperol Mimosa recipe, please let me know how you liked it by ★★★★★ star rating it and leaving a comment below. Your feedback is truly awesome and helps others discover delicious recipes! You can also sign up for our Newsletter or follow me on Pinterest or Instagram and share your creation with me. Just tag me @combinegoodflavors and hashtag #combinegoodflavors, so I don’t miss it!

📖 Recipe: Aperol Mimosa

Aperol Mimosa – The Ultimate Brunch Upgrade

Nora

This Aperol Mimosa is a vibrant and refreshing spin on the classic mimosa! With its stunning orange hue, this cocktail combines Aperol, fresh orange juice, and bubbly Prosecco for a bittersweet, citrusy delight. Whether you’re celebrating Mother’s Day, brunching with friends, or toasting to National Mimosa Day, this easy-to-make drink is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

5 from 4 votes

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Alcoholic beverage, Cocktails

Cuisine Italian

Servings 1 Servings

Calories 268 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Champagne Glass
• Measuring tools / Jigger
• Bar spoon
• Sharp knife & cutting board

Servings 1 Servings

Calories 268 kcal

⛑️ Food Safety Guidelines

While making cocktails is generally low-risk, it’s always good practice to keep food safety in mind, especially if you’re preparing for guests or handling fresh ingredients:

• Cleanliness is Key: Always start with clean hands, utensils, and a clean workspace, particularly when handling fresh fruits.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh orange juice for the best taste and to avoid any spoilage risks associated with older juices.
• Temperature Control: Ensure all ingredients, especially sparkling wine and juice, are kept chilled until immediately before serving. This maintains freshness and prevents bacterial growth.
• Handle Glassware Safely: Be mindful when handling champagne flutes, as they can be delicate. Avoid using chipped or cracked glasses.
• Alcohol Awareness: Consume alcoholic beverages responsibly. Do not drink and drive.
• Allergy Considerations: Be aware of any potential allergies among your guests, especially if you plan to introduce variations with different juices or garnishes.
• Proper Storage: If you’re pre-mixing juice and Aperol, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator and consume within 24-48 hours. Leftover sparkling wine should be recorked and consumed within a day or two to maintain fizziness.

For further information on general safe food handling practices, check Safe Food Handling – FDA.