Aperol Margarita 🍹 — Ex-Bartender’s Twist on a Classic
As a former bartender, I’ve always loved the classic Margarita — crisp, citrusy, perfectly balanced. Ok, I did not always liked to make it, sometimes it can be a bit frustrating, especially when you are very tired. But sometimes you want a softer edge, a splash of color, and a slightly bitter-sweet vibe. That’s where the Aperol Margarita comes in. Think of it as your Margarita with a sunset filter: tequila at its base, citrus for freshness, and Aperol for that unmistakable orange glow. Easy to make, refreshing to sip, and absolutely Instagram-worthy. My Classic Margarita cocktail is here also.
Recipe Details 🕒Paragraph:Preparation Time: ~5 minutesTotal Time: ~5 minutesServings: 1 cocktailCalories (approx.): 280–320 kcal per servingDifficulty (1–5): 2 (easy — just a shaker and jigger needed)
Ingredients 🧾🫰
🍸 45 ml (1.5 fl oz / ≈3 tbsp) tequila blanco
🍊 30 ml (1 fl oz / ≈2 tbsp) Aperol
🍶 20 ml (0.67 fl oz / ≈1 1/3 tbsp) Cointreau or triple sec
🍋 20 ml (0.67 fl oz / ≈1 1/3 tbsp) freshly squeezed lime juice
🍯 10 ml (≈2 tsp / 0.33 fl oz) agave syrup or simple syrup (to taste)
🧂 salt or sugar for rimming the glass (optional)
🍈 lime wedge for garnish
🧊 ice — enough for shaking and serving.
How to Make Aperol Margarita 🧪
1. Prepare the glass: lightly rub a lime wedge along the rim and dip into salt or sugar if desired. 🍋
2. In a shaker, add 45 ml tequila, 30 ml Aperol, 20 ml Cointreau, 20 ml lime juice, and 10 ml agave/simple syrup. Add ice. ❄️
3. Shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds — as an ex-bartender, I can tell you: quick, firm shakes make the perfect chill and dilution. 💪
4. Double strain (fine strainer + shaker strainer) into a chilled glass with fresh ice for a smooth texture. 🥂
5. Garnish with a lime wedge or a twist of peel. Serve immediately. 🍈
Pro Tips for the Best Aperol Margarita 🍸🔥
Use agave syrup instead of simple syrup — it blends naturally with tequila.Hosting a party? Pre-batch by multiplying the ingredients x6, store in the fridge, and shake with ice before serving.
🧊Double-straining removes ice shards and pulp, giving a polished, bar-quality drink.
📷Adjust balance: if too bitter, add 5–10 ml agave; if too sweet, add 2–3 ml lime juice.
⚖️Always use fresh lime juice — bottled juice kills the freshness. 🍋
Best Ways to Use Aperol Margarita 🍽️🍹
As a refreshing aperitif before dinner. I would reccommend our Pasta Arrabbiata.
Perfect for summer gatherings — batch it up in bottles and chill.As a signature cocktail for parties — its bright color and lower alcohol make it crowd-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions ❓💬
Q: Can I substitute Aperol with Campari?A: Yes, but Campari is stronger and more bitter. Use less and add extra agave for balance.
Q: How far in advance can I prep the mix?A: Up to 24 hours in the fridge. Just don’t add ice until serving.
Q: Should I use a salted rim like the classic Margarita?A: You can, but a sugar-salt mix works beautifully with Aperol’s bittersweet profile.