3 Refreshing & Easy Aperol Tequila Cocktail (Margarita) Recipes

Few cocktails can compete with the delightful fusion of tequila and Aperol when it comes to vibrant and refreshing flavors. This dynamic duo combines tequila’s bold, earthy notes with Aperol’s bittersweet, citrusy charm, creating a cocktail experience perfect for any occasion. If you love the classic Aperol Spritz but want to mix things up, you’re in for a treat.

Get ready to step up your cocktail game with these 3 refreshing and easy Aperol Tequila Cocktail (Margarita) recipes sure to delight your taste buds. Aperol Tequila cocktails are widely loved for their delightful citrusy and slightly bitter flavors. These three recipes from the cocktail cuisine combine culinary creativity and mixing mastery in a delightfully creative way. Whether you’re relaxing at home or hosting a gathering, my cocktail recipes are sure to impress and refresh.

What is Aperol?

Aperol is a vibrant orange Italian liqueur known for its distinctive bittersweet taste, originating from Padua in 1919. Created by the Barbieri brothers, Aperol is characterized by its blend of herbs and roots, featuring notes of bitter orange, rhubarb, and gentian. Despite its bright color, it is relatively low in alcohol, at 11% ABV. Aperol is most famously used in the Aperol Spritz, a refreshing cocktail combining Aperol, prosecco, and soda water. Its balanced flavor profile makes it a versatile ingredient in various cocktails, perfect for aperitifs and casual sipping.

Aperol Tequila Drink With Grapefruit Juice

We all agree that the tequila and Aperol combination is a stroke of genius. Tequila brings its robust, earthy notes, grapefruit juice adds hints of citrus and pepper, while Aperol offers a bittersweet complexity with its blend of herbs and oranges. If you wish to experience the perfect balance between sweet, bitter, and tart – this recipe is a must-try.

Servings: 2 / Prep time: 5 mins

Ingredients

• 3 ounces (90 mL) of reposado tequila or blanco (e.g., Casamigos)
• 1 ounce (30 mL) of Aperol liqueur
• 2 ounces (60 mL) of grapefruit juice
• 1 ounce (30 mL) of fresh lime or lemon juice
• 1 bottle (355 mL) of Topo Chico mineral water or sparkling wine
• Orange slice and twist for garnish

Instructions

Add the Ingredients and Shake:

• Add ice cubes into the cocktail shaker until halfway full. Pour in 3 ounces (90 mL) of blanco or reposado tequila, 1 ounce (30 mL) of Aperol liqueur, 2 ounces (60 mL) of grapefruit juice, and 1 ounce (30 mL) of fresh lime or lemon juice.
• Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the ingredients are well-combined and chilled.

Prepare the Glass:

• Choose a cocktail or wine glass and fill it with fresh ice cubes to ensure your drink stays cold. Strain the shaken mixture into the prepared glass over the ice.

Top with Fizz:

• Open a bottle of Topo Chico mineral water or sparkling wine and top off the cocktail, adding a refreshing fizz to the drink.
• Give the cocktail a gentle stir to incorporate the ingredients evenly.

Garnish:

• Garnish with a slice of orange and an orange twist for an extra burst of flavor and a touch of elegance.

Serve:

• Your Aperol Tequila Fizz is now ready. Serve in a short or tall glass and savor the delightful blend of tequila, Aperol, and refreshing citrus.

This recipe combines the rich flavors of tequila with the light bittersweet taste of Aperol and the refreshing taste of grapefruit and lemon or lime juice, topped with a sparkling finish for an extra refreshing twist.

Frozen Aperol Peach Margarita

I bring to you the tangy zest of a Margarita mixed with the bittersweet charm of Aperol, and the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches – that will leave you craving for more. This recipe takes your Aperol cocktail up a notch. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or someone looking to try something new and exciting, the Frozen Aperol Peach Margarita is a must-try.

Serving: 1 / Prep time: 15 mins / Peach Popsicles freezing: 12 hours

Ingredients

• Tajin, for the rim
• 2 ounces (60 mL) of silver tequila
• 1 ounce (30 mL) of Aperol
• 3/4 ounce (22.5 mL) of Cointreau (orange liqueur)
• 1/2 ounce (15 mL) fresh lime juice
• 3/4 cup (120 g) of frozen peaches
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) honey
• 1 handful of ice
• 3/4 ounce (22.5 mL) of coconut milk

Instructions

Prepare Cocktail Glass:

• Rub the lime wedge around the glass rim, then dip the glass into a dish containing Tajin and rotate it slowly until the rim is coated with Taijan evenly.

Blend the Ingredients:

• In a blender, combine 2 ounces (60 mL) of silver tequila, 1 ounce (30 mL) of Aperol, 3/4 ounce (22.5 mL) of Cointreau, 1/2 ounce (15 mL) of fresh lime juice, 3/4 cup (120 g) of frozen peaches, and 2 teaspoons (10 g) of honey.
• Add a generous handful of ice to the blender. Blend the mixture on high speed until it reaches a slushy consistency.

Add Coconut Milk:

• Pour 3/4 oz (22.5 mL) of coconut milk into the blender and pulse briefly to swirl it through the drink. This will create a beautiful marbled effect and add a creamy texture to your cocktail.

Serve:

• Pour the blended mixture into your prepared glass with the Tajin rim. For an extra touch, you can add a peach popsicle and/or a sprig of mint as a garnish.
• Your Frozen Aperol Peach Margarita is now ready to be enjoyed. Drink up and savor the delightful blend of flavors!

Steps To Make Peach Popsicles for Garnish

Ingredients

• 6 cups (900 grams) of chopped peaches
• 1/2 cup (120 mL) of mango juice
• 1/2 cup (120 mL) of pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup (120 mL) of orange juice

To make the peach popsicles, follow these simple steps.

Instructions

Blend the Fruit:

• In a blender combine 6 cups of chopped peaches with 1/2 cup (120 mL) of mango, pineapple, or orange juice. Blend the mixture until it is smooth.

Freeze:

• Divide the peach puree evenly among 6 popsicle molds or Dixie Cups. Insert popsicle sticks into the molds. Place the molds in the freezer and freeze until solid, typically for several hours or overnight.

These peach popsicles can be used as a delightful garnish for your Frozen Aperol Peach Margarita or enjoyed on their own as a refreshing treat.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Perfect Aperol Tequila Cocktail

Creating a delicious Aperol tequila cocktail involves balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to make the best Aperol tequila cocktail:

• Balance the Sweetness: Aperol is slightly bitter and sweet, so balance it with the sweetness of other ingredients like fruit juices (e.g., orange juice) or a touch of simple syrup. Tequila also adds its own sweetness depending on the type (blanco, reposado, or añejo).
• Choose the Right Tequila: The type of tequila you use will significantly impact the cocktail’s flavor. A blanco tequila’s crispness works well with the brightness of Aperol, while a reposado or añejo can add depth and complexity.
• Consider the Mixing Technique: Aperol and tequila cocktails can be stirred or shaken, depending on the ingredients and desired texture. Stirring maintains clarity and smoothness, while shaking can introduce aeration and a slightly different mouthfeel.

Other Tequila Cocktails and Drinks for Summer Season

A tequila Aperol cocktail containing tequila, Aperol, lemon juice, and elderflower liqueur is a great alternative to traditional margaritas and is perfect for warm weather. The combination of tequila, Aperol, and lemon juice creates a unique and refreshing flavor profile. If you liked this Aperol Tequila cocktail, you may also enjoy an Aperol Spritz. Here are 5 indulgent recipes to make the best ever Aperol Spritz. Both are incredible for summer sipping; however, the main difference is that Tequila Aperol Spritz contains club soda which is not added while preparing an Aperol Margarita.

Another great summer cocktail is the visually stunning and delightfully refreshing Tequila Sunrise – made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine is one of my favorite drinks. The grenadine sinks to the bottom, creating a beautiful gradient of colors that resembles a sunrise. It’s sweet, citrusy, and perfect for sipping while enjoying the summer sun. If you want a refreshing drink without alcohol in this hot weather do check this article What Sonic Slush Flavors Are The Best? to find an incredibly refreshing slush to beat summer heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Italian Aperitif?

An Italian aperitif, or “aperitivo,” is a pre-dinner drink intended to stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for the upcoming meal. Typically enjoyed in the early evening, these drinks are often light and refreshing, with a balanced blend of bitter and sweet flavors. Popular Italian aperitifs include classic cocktails like the Aperol Spritz, made with Aperol, prosecco, and soda water, and the Negroni, which combines gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.

Do You Need to Refrigerate Aperol?

Aperol does not need to be refrigerated. Like many spirits and liqueurs, Aperol can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. However, refrigerating Aperol after opening can help maintain its flavor and freshness, especially if you don’t use it frequently. Many people also prefer to refrigerate Aperol because it’s typically served chilled in cocktails like the Aperol Spritz, and keeping it cold can make preparation quicker and easier.

Is It Okay to Add Añejo Tequila In Tequila Aperol Cocktail Recipe?

Añejo tequila, which means “aged” or “vintage” in Spanish, is aged for a minimum of one year but less than three years in oak barrels. This extended aging period allows tequila to develop a deep, complex flavor profile. It offers a sophisticated drinking experience with its rich and layered flavors. Add it to you tequila cocktail to enhance the smoothness and depth of your classic cocktail.

Can I Use Bottled Juice Instead of Fresh Lime Juice?

Yes, you can use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice to prepare an Aperol Tequila cocktail. However, it is not considered desirable because bottled juice contains preservatives and has a slightly different flavor profile compared to fresh lemon juice. If possible, opt for fresh lime juice for the best taste.

What Not to Mix Tequila With?

The margarita stands out as the top choice for mixing tequila, but you can also combine it with grapefruit juice for a paloma or orange juice and grenadine for a Tequila sunrise. However, it’s strongly advised against mixing tequila with milk or dairy products. From a digestion perspective, combining these could upset your stomach significantly. Tequila’s high alcohol content doesn’t complement milk well, and your body is likely to react poorly to such a combination.

What Kind of Alcohol Is Aperol?

Aperol is a special kind of Italian liqueur produced for more than a hundred years now. It was created back in 1919 by two brothers, Luigi and Silvio Barbieri, in Padua, Italy. This bright orange drink belongs to a category of liqueurs known as amaro, which are known for their bitter flavor (the word “amaro” actually means bitter in Italian). Even today, Aperol maintains its original, secret recipe despite being refreshing and low in alcohol (11% abv).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Aperol Tequila Cocktail recipe is the perfect tequila cocktail for any season. There are only a few ingredients in these easy-to-make cocktail recipes – including tequila, Aperol, and fresh citrus juice. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, these easy-to-make cocktails are sure to be a hit with your guests and loved ones. You can make a large batch of this Aperol Tequila Cocktail for special occasions and parties.

Once you’ve given them a try, I would love to hear about your experiences. Feel free to share your thoughts, pictures, and any tweaks you made to the recipes. Also, don’t forget to rate and review recipe of your favorite cocktail. Here’s to having a fun time mixing up these Aperol Tequila cocktails with your friends and creating delightful experiences!