Maple Bourbon Aperol - Great Happy Hour co*cktail Recipe (2024)

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It is time for fall co*cktails in our backyard pub, The Grain Shed. As the cool days leave, I like to switch away from refreshing co*cktails like Ranch Water and switch to a delicious co*cktail that is nice to enjoy as we transition into fall. Bourbon co*cktails hit that spot.

You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for a deliciously not-too-sweet drink!

The maple Aperol bourbon co*cktail is the perfect blend of maple syrup’s earthy sweetness and Aperol’s bitter-sweetness. This co*cktail is sure to delight your taste buds. And let’s not forget about the smooth and warm depth of bourbon that ties everything nicely together. So, please sit back, relax, and let’s dive into this heavenly drink.

The first thing you’ll want when making this co*cktail is quality ingredients to make it correctly. You’ll need pure maple syrup, Aperol, bourbon, prosecco, and fresh orange juice. You can use any bourbon you like, but using one that is at least 80-proof is a good idea. For the maple syrup, try to use a pure, grade B one, as it has a more intense flavor that mixes well with the other ingredients. I love vanilla bean-infused organic maple syrup by Wild Four Maple from Vermont. I purchase this at Costco when available, but it can also be purchased directly from Wild Four.

The bourbon Aperol co*cktail is an excellent co*cktail for any season. Switching simple syrup to maple syrup adds a warm sweetness, perfect for fall and winter. The Aperol has a light and refreshing flavor, great for warm spring and summer days. The bourbon creates a depth of flavor that pairs well with the maple and Aperol, making this co*cktail a perfect fit for happy hour any time of the year.

If you’re looking for a twist on this classic co*cktail, try adding a splash of soda water instead of prosecco. The bubbles will give the delicious co*cktail a bit of a lift and will make it even more refreshing. Additionally, adding a sprig of rosemary to the co*cktail will give it an earthy, herbal flavor that perfectly complements this drink’s sweet and acidic flavors.

Here are the ingredients for Maple Bourbon Aperol co*cktail

Bourbon

Use your favorite bourbon. I like to use Buffalo Trace.

Aperol

Italian history with bitter Aperol, the botanical liqueur that’s been enticing tastebuds for over a century.

Invented by Luigi and Silvio Barbieri back in 1919, this vibrant orange botanical liqueur originated in Padua, Italy. It’s not just any liqueur. Aperol falls into the amaro (bittersweet liquor commonly drank as an after-dinner digestif) family, known for its delicious bitterness. Aperol is usually used in the co*cktail world to make the popular Aperol Spitz.

Maple Syrup

Use good quality real maple syrup in this great co*cktail, but simple syrup can be substituted.

Prosecco

Use your favorite Prosecco. If you don’t have prosecco or sparkling wine, use club soda.

Tip: If making only one or two drinks, buy the mini bottle of Prosecco.

Orange

The orange will be used for a good squeeze of juice and an orange peel garnish.

Here is the co*cktail recipe

1 1/2 oz bourbon

1 oz Aperol

1/2 oz maple syrup

3 oz prosecco

Orange wedge

Orange peel garnish

To make the co*cktail, put all the ingredients except orange into a low-ball co*cktail glass filled with ice or one large ice cube. Cut a wedge of orange and squeeze it into the drink, and then gently stir. Garnish with a fresh orange slice, an orange peel twist, or a sprig of rosemary to add even more flavor.

This Maple Bourbon Aperol Spritz is a drink anyone can appreciate as we transition from summer to fall. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a sweet drink but not too sweet. So, try this drink next time you’re in the mood for something special! You won’t regret it. Remember to use quality ingredients, stir it well, and garnish it nicely. You will love its vibrant colors.

Comment at the bottom of this page with your favorite Aperol co*cktail or if you try this recipe.

Cheers!

Yvonne ♥