Apple Cider Spritz: Crisp & Bubbly

Apple spritz with wine and apple cider

One of my favorite ways to embrace the cozy charm of autumn is with an Apple Cider Spritz. There’s something about the crispness of apple cider mixed with a touch of bubbly that perfectly captures the essence of the season.

Apple cider spritz recipe

Apple Cider Spritz is a refreshing cocktail that combines the autumnal warmth of apple cider with the effervescence of sparkling wine or water. You can taste the sweetness from the apple cider and the bitterness of Aperol, complemented by the effervescence of Prosecco.

An Apple Cider Spritz for autumn season

This drink has become a staple of fall festivities, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and bubbles. You can also make this drink without Aperol:

  • With Aperol: Adding Aperol introduces a bittersweet, citrusy flavor with notes of orange and rhubarb. Aperol’s slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the apple cider, making the drink more complex and sophisticated.
  • Without Aperol: Without Aperol, the Apple Cider Spritz remains on the sweeter, fruitier side. This version is lighter, more refreshing, and less bitter, appealing to those who prefer a straightforward, sweet autumn beverage.

Here’s how to make the apple cider spritz:

Apple spritz with wine and apple cider

Apple cider spritz

A refreshing and festive apple cider spritz combines the cozy warmth of autumn's favorite beverage with the effervescent charm of prosecco.
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Prep Time 6 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine Italian
Servings 1
Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients
  

With Aperol

  • 2 oz apple cider
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 3 oz prosecco or sparkling wine
  • 1 oz club soda
  • Ice
  • Apple slices and cinnamon stick optional garnish

Without Aperol

  • 1 cup chilled apple cider
  • 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
  • 1/2 cup Prosecco optional for a boozy version
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cinnamon stick for garnish
  • Apple slices for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Instructions
 

With Aperol

  • Fill a wine glass with ice.
  • Pour in the apple cider and Aperol, stirring gently.
  • Add the Prosecco and top with club soda.
  • Stir once more to combine, and garnish with a slice of apple and a cinnamon stick if desired.

Without Aperol

  • Fill two glasses with ice cubes.
  • In each glass, pour 1/2 cup of chilled apple cider.
  • Add 1/4 cup of sparkling water and 1/4 cup of Prosecco (if using) to each glass.
  • Stir in 1/2 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice per glass.
  • Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slices.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing autumn drink!

Notes

The recipe with Aperol will have more calories (140) than the one without Aperol (120)

Nutrition

Calories: 130kcal
Keyword alcoholic drinks, apple cider drink, Apple cider spritz, autumn recipes, cocktail recipes, easy recipes
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Variations

1. Hard Apple Cider Spritz

For those seeking a more potent libation, the Hard version offers an elevated alcoholic content while maintaining the familiar apple-forward flavor profile. Its recipe might include:

  • 4 oz Hard Apple Cider
  • 2 oz Prosecco
  • 1 oz Bourbon optional, for extra warmth
  • Dash of Angostura bitters
  • Apple fan and cinnamon stick for garnish

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Spritz

To make this recipe, adjust the following ingredients:

  • Replace 2 oz apple cider with 1 oz apple cider vinegar (to keep the acidity balanced).
  • Increase club soda from 1 oz to 3 oz to dilute the vinegar and balance the flavors.
  • Optionally, add a sweetener like 1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup to soften the sharpness of the vinegar.

3. Non-Alcoholic Version

The Sparkling Apple Cider Spritz provides an alcohol-free alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or sophistication. This version is a crowd-pleaser that ensures everyone can partake in the festivities.

To create a delightful non-alcoholic Apple Cider Prosecco Spritz:

  1. Combine 3 oz apple cider with 2 oz sparkling water
  2. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness
  3. Sweeten with a touch of honey if desired
  4. Garnish with thin apple slices and a sprig of fresh thyme

How to pair

1. Food Pairings

The Apple Cider Aperol Spritz complements a wide array of cuisines due to its balanced flavor profile. Here’s a list of food pairings you can try:

  • Charcuterie boards with aged cheeses and cured meats: The meats’ saltiness and the cheeses’ creaminess balance the sweetness of the cider.
  • Roasted root vegetables with herbs
  • Pork dishes, especially those with fruity glazes
  • Cranberry and prosciutto crostini: The tartness of cranberries and the savory prosciutto complement the drink’s apple notes while adding a crunchy texture.
  • Butternut squash soup
  • Apple and walnut salads
  • Toast cups: Filled with savory fillings like mushroom or spinach, these can provide a hearty bite that pairs well with the refreshing qualities of the cocktail.
  • Grilled chicken with apple chutney
  • Caramel apple desserts

2. Seasonal Pairing Suggestions

As the seasons change, so too can the perfect pairings for your apple cider spritz.

SeasonPairing Suggestions
FallPumpkin pie, roasted turkey, harvest salads
WinterGingerbread cookies, roasted chestnuts, fondue
SpringAsparagus quiche, lemon tarts, fresh berries
SummerGrilled peaches, light pasta salads, fruit sorbets

Troubleshooting and tips

1. Adjusting Sweetness and Acidity

The balance of sweetness and acidity is crucial for achieving a harmonious Apple Cider Spritz. If your spritz:

  • Too sweet: Add a splash of lemon juice or use drier sparkling wine
  • Too tart: Incorporate a touch of honey or maple syrup
  • Too strong: Increase the ratio of sparkling water
  • Too weak: Add an extra splash of apple cider or opt for a higher-proof spirit
  • Lack of depth: Add a dash of bitters or a sprinkle of cinnamon

2. Maintaining Carbonation in Your Spritz

A flat spritz loses much of its charm and appeal. To ensure your spritz maintains its enthusiasm from the first sip to the last, try these tips:

  1. Use chilled ingredients to reduce the speed of CO2 escape
  2. Pour sparkling components gently down the side of the glass
  3. Stir minimally and with a bar spoon to avoid agitating the bubbles
  4. Consider using larger ice cubes, which melt more slowly and cause less fizz-disturbing movement
  5. Serve in tall, narrow glasses to preserve carbonation longer
  6. If preparing in advance, add sparkling components just before serving

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