There’s something undeniably refreshing about a spritz, and when strawberries are involved, it’s pure magic. Our Strawberry Spritz is a vibrant twist on the classic, combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries with a bubbly, citrusy kick. It’s the perfect companion for sunny afternoons, brunch gatherings, or simply unwinding after a long day.
This drink takes inspiration from Italian aperitivo culture, where spritzes are a staple for their light, effervescent charm. By adding fresh strawberries, we’ve given it a fruity flair that feels both indulgent and approachable. It’s easy to make and even easier to sip, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
So whether we’re hosting friends or treating ourselves, this Strawberry Spritz is our go-to for a refreshing, elegant drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s dive in and create a cocktail that’s sure to impress.
Strawberry Spritz Recipe
Creating the Strawberry Spritz at home is both simple and rewarding. This refreshingly fruity cocktail comes together in minutes with just a few high-quality ingredients. Let’s dive straight into the steps to craft a vibrant and bubbly drink that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s what we need for one serving of our Strawberry Spritz:
- 3-4 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced.
- 1 oz (30 ml) strawberry puree, prepared fresh or store-bought.
- 2 oz (60 ml) Aperol or any orange-flavored liqueur.
- 3 oz (90 ml) Prosecco, chilled.
- 1 oz (30 ml) soda water, chilled.
- Ice cubes, enough to fill the glass.
- Fresh mint leaves and a strawberry slice for garnish (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the base:
Place the hulled, sliced fresh strawberries and strawberry puree into the bottom of a large wine glass or spritz glass. Muddle gently with a muddler or spoon to release the flavors.
- Add Aperol:
Pour the Aperol into the glass over the muddled strawberries. This step gives the drink its signature orange-citrus undertone.
- Incorporate the bubbles:
Slowly pour in the chilled Prosecco, ensuring it retains its effervescence. Then, add the soda water for extra fizz.
- Add ice:
Drop in enough ice cubes to fill the glass to the top. This keeps the drink refreshing and perfectly chilled.
- Garnish and serve:
For a pop of color and aroma, garnish with a fresh mint leaf and a slice of strawberry on the rim of the glass.
Quick Notes
| Component | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries | Adds natural sweetness and fruitiness. |
| Strawberry puree | Enhances the berry flavor. |
| Aperol | Provides an orangey bitterness for balance. |
| Prosecco | Supplies the drink’s sparkling essence. |
| Soda water | Adds lightness and refreshment. |
| Mint leave/garnish | Aesthetic and aromatic enhancement. |
Enjoy our stunning Strawberry Spritz that embodies the bubbly charm of every joyous moment! Tailor it by adjusting strawberry puree for more sweetness, or swap Prosecco for a non-alcoholic option for a delightful mocktail version.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Strawberry Spritz, we need fresh and high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the fruity, bubbly, and refreshing essence of this cocktail. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 fresh strawberries, washed and hulled (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 oz strawberry puree (store-bought or homemade for optimal flavor)
- 3 oz Aperol or any orange-flavored liqueur
- 3 oz chilled Prosecco, for that signature sparkling kick
- 1 oz soda water, to add a crisp and light fizz
- Ice cubes, enough to fill your glass
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the Aperol with orange juice and the Prosecco with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
Each ingredient is thoughtfully incorporated to balance sweetness, acidity, and effervescence, giving the Strawberry Spritz its signature taste.
Tools And Equipment
To make the perfect Strawberry Spritz, we need to gather the right tools and equipment. These will ensure smooth preparation and help us achieve the drink’s vibrant visual appeal and refreshing taste. Here’s what we’ll need:
Equipment List
- Cocktail Shaker – For mixing and chilling ingredients evenly.
- Muddler – To crush and release the juices from fresh strawberries.
- Jigger – For accurate measurement of liquid ingredients.
- Bar Spoon – For gentle stirring without losing bubbles from the Prosecco and soda water.
- Fine Mesh Strainer – To strain the muddled fruits and remove any pulp (optional for a smoother finish).
- Serving Glasses – We recommend large wine glasses or spritz glasses to showcase the cocktail’s vibrant colors.
- Cutting Board & Knife – Essential for slicing strawberries for garnish.
- Ice Cube Tray – To keep the drink chilled while adding a crisp texture.
Quantities at a Glance
| Tool/Equipment | Quantity Needed | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cocktail Shaker | 1 | Combine and chill ingredients. |
| Muddler | 1 | Muddle fresh strawberries for flavor. |
| Jigger | 1 | Measure precise liquid ingredients. |
| Bar Spoon | 1 | Gently stir to integrate bubbles. |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Optional | Strain pulp for a refined finish. |
| Serving Glasses | 1 per drink | Showcase the Strawberry Spritz beautifully. |
| Cutting Board & Knife | 1 set | Prepare garnishes, like strawberry slices. |
| Ice Cube Tray | Enough cubes for chilling each glass | Keep the cocktail cold. |
Practical Tips
- Chill the Glasses: Before assembling the drink, place your serving glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes. This step enhances the spritz’s refreshing, chilled quality.
- Opt for Quality Tools: Using a well-built muddler or high-quality shaker can make the process easier and more enjoyable.
- Prepare in Advance: Have everything set up before starting, so the preparation flows smoothly and efficiently.
Directions
Let’s bring this vibrant cocktail to life step by step. Follow these precise instructions to craft the perfect Strawberry Spritz.
Prepare The Strawberry Syrup
- Start by cutting 3 fresh strawberries into small slices for easy muddling.
- In a small bowl, mash the strawberries using a muddler or the back of a spoon until a slightly chunky puree forms.
- If you prefer a smoother syrup, pass the mashed strawberries through a fine mesh strainer to remove seeds and pulp. This step is optional based on your texture preference.
- Combine the mashed or strained strawberries with 2 oz of strawberry puree in the same bowl, and mix well.
Tip: For an extra burst of sweetness and vibrancy, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey into the syrup and stir until dissolved.
Assemble The Spritz
- Fill your serving glass to the brim with ice cubes to keep the drink perfectly chilled.
- Add 3 oz of Aperol or another orange-flavored liqueur to the glass.
- Pour the prepared strawberry syrup over the liqueur for a rich, fruity base.
- Slowly add 3 oz of chilled Prosecco, letting the bubbles develop naturally. Avoid vigorous stirring to preserve carbonation.
- Top off the drink with 1 oz of soda water for a light, effervescent touch.
Tip: Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without flattening the bubbles.
Garnish And Serve
- Finish your Strawberry Spritz with a garnish of fresh mint leaves. Lightly slap them between your palms to release their aroma before placing them on the drink.
- Add a slice of fresh strawberry to the rim or float it in the cocktail for visual appeal.
- If desired, serve in chilled glasses for an extra refreshing experience.
Tips For The Perfect Strawberry Spritz
Creating the perfect Strawberry Spritz involves attention to detail, quality ingredients, and a few game-changing tricks. Here are our expert tips to elevate your spritz-making skills:
1. Choose Fresh, Ripe Ingredients
- Always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries as they provide maximum sweetness and flavor. Strawberries in peak season offer the best results in both taste and presentation.
- If fresh strawberries are not available, frozen ripe strawberries can work as an alternative—just thaw them for a vibrant puree.
2. Balance is Key
To ensure a beautifully balanced cocktail:
- Use a jigger for accurate measurements. Exact proportions of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water are crucial for a harmonious flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a touch of simple syrup or honey during the muddling step. Test and adjust sweetness according to your taste.
3. Chill Everything
- Start with chilled Prosecco and keep all ingredients as cold as possible to preserve the spritz’s refreshing essence.
- Chill the serving glasses in the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes before assembling your drink. This step enhances the cocktail’s crispness from the first sip.
4. Perfect Garnishing
Presentation matters—a visually appealing cocktail enhances the drinking experience:
- Garnish with whole strawberries or fan-sliced strawberries for extra flair.
- Add fresh mint leaves to boost aroma and vibrant color contrast. Gently slap the mint to release its essential oils before use.
5. Maintain Effervescence
- Combine Prosecco and soda water gently using a bar spoon. Over-stirring disrupts the carbonation, making the spritz less effervescent. Always pour Prosecco slowly to maintain its bubbles.
6. Experiment with Variations
- For a non-alcoholic Strawberry Spritz, substitute Aperol with fresh orange juice and Prosecco with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
- Infuse the cocktail with additional flavors by muddling basil leaves with strawberries for an earthy twist or adding a splash of elderflower syrup for floral notes.
7. The Right Glassware
- Use large wine glasses or spritz-specific glasses to enhance the sensory experience. The wide mouth of these glasses allows the aroma to fully develop.
Visual Summary of Key Tips
| Tip | Details/Action |
|---|---|
| Fresh Strawberries | Always use fresh, ripe strawberries for optimal flavor. |
| Balanced Ingredients | Measure using a jigger and adjust sweetness with syrup or honey if needed. |
| Chilled Ingredients & Glassware | Keep Prosecco, soda water, and serving glasses cold for a refreshing taste. |
| Gentle Mixing | Stir Prosecco and soda water gently with a bar spoon to retain carbonation. |
| Garnish Perfectly | Use fresh mint and strawberry slices to add aroma and visual appeal. |
| Non-Alcoholic Twist | Replace Aperol with orange juice and Prosecco with sparkling water for a mocktail version. |
| Explore New Flavors | Add basil, elderflower syrup, or other seasonal ingredients for creative variations. |
By following these expert tips, we ensure your Strawberry Spritz is consistently delicious, stunning, and perfect for any occasion.
Variations To Try
Why stick to one version when the Strawberry Spritz offers endless opportunities to explore? Here, we can elevate this delightful drink with delicious twists to suit any mood or occasion. Let’s dive into these variations:
1. Herbal Infusion
Add an aromatic flair by introducing fresh herbs like basil, mint, or rosemary. Muddle the chosen herb along with the strawberries to infuse subtle herbal notes into the drink. This pairing works wonders:
- Basil: Enhances the fruity essence and adds depth.
- Mint: Brings a refreshingly cool twist.
- Rosemary: Offers woodsy, sophisticated undertones.
2. Berry Medley
Why stop at strawberries? Turn the spritz into a berry lover’s dream by incorporating a mix of fresh raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries. Swap or mix the strawberry puree with other berry purees for a flavor-packed variation. Use the same process to muddle multiple berries for a colorful upgrade.
3. Floral Elegance
For a gentler, more fragrant cocktail, experiment with floral flavors. Add a splash of elderflower syrup or rosewater to the mix. These additions complement the citrus and strawberry notes, creating an elegant aroma and taste.
4. Citrus Boost
If you love a zestier version, accentuate the citrus. Replace Aperol with grapefruit liqueur or limoncello. Garnish with a twist of orange or lemon peel for a bright and citrusy kick.
5. Spicy Zing
Looking for a bold edge? Add a hint of heat by muddling slices of fresh chili or using a dash of chili-infused simple syrup. The spice pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries and the bubbles of Prosecco.
6. Tropical Escape
Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise by adding pineapple juice, coconut water, or mango puree. This creates a lighter, tropical-inspired spritz perfect for summer evenings. Garnish with a slice of pineapple or shredded coconut for flair.
7. Non-Alcoholic Creativity
Reimagine the drink for those seeking a mocktail version. Replace Aperol with orange juice and swap out Prosecco for sparkling water or alcohol-free sparkling wine. Adding sparkling lemonade is another great option for a zestier non-alcoholic variation.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Herbal Infusion | Mint, basil, or rosemary | Aromatic and refreshing |
| Berry Medley | Raspberries, blackberries, blueberries | Sweet and fruity |
| Floral Elegance | Elderflower syrup, rosewater | Delicate and fragrant |
| Citrus Boost | Grapefruit liqueur, limoncello | Bright and zesty |
| Spicy Zing | Fresh chili, chili syrup | Bold and fiery |
| Tropical Escape | Pineapple juice, coconut water, mango | Light and tropical |
| Non-Alcoholic Creativity | Orange juice, sparkling water | Sweet and refreshing (alcohol-free) |
Each of these variations adds a unique twist to the Strawberry Spritz Recipe, giving us the freedom to innovate based on preference or seasonal ingredients.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing a Strawberry Spritz ahead of time is a breeze and ensures you can spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than mixing drinks. Let’s break it down into manageable steps for a stress-free setup:
Batch Preparation
- Prepare the strawberry puree: Blend 2 cups of fresh, hulled strawberries until smooth. Strain the puree to remove seeds for a silky texture. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Measure the Aperol (or orange-flavored liqueur): Pre-measure the liqueur for multiple servings. Use a sealed bottle or jar to keep it fresh and set aside in a cool, dark spot.
- Pre-chill the Prosecco and soda water: Keep them in the refrigerator. Serving chilled beverages is crucial to maintain the drink’s effervescence.
Pre-Assembly Recommendations
- To preserve the carbonation, add the Prosecco and soda water just before serving. Mixing them too early may compromise the fizz that makes the Strawberry Spritz invigorating.
- Slice your garnishes (such as strawberries, orange slices, or herbs) in advance and store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator. For maximum freshness, place a damp paper towel inside the container to prevent drying out.
Serve in Style
Use a serving station to keep everything within arm’s reach when it’s time to assemble. Place the pre-made puree, chilled mixers, measured liqueur, garnishes, and ice in separate areas for smooth preparation.
Quick Assembly Ratios
| Ingredient | Ratio (per glass) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Strawberry Puree | 2 tablespoons | Use fresh for optimal flavor. |
| Aperol | 3 ounces | Substitute with orange juice if needed. |
| Prosecco | 3 ounces | Chill in advance for crisp taste. |
| Soda Water | 1–2 ounces | Add last for fizz. |
| Ice | Fill to glass height | Use crushed or cubed as preferred. |
Pro Tip: If you’re hosting a larger gathering, consider creating a “DIY Strawberry Spritz Bar” with these pre-chilled components. Guests can customize their drinks, simplifying the process while adding an interactive element to your event.
By incorporating these make-ahead methods, we ensure the Strawberry Spritz remains freshly crafted yet conveniently stress-free.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Spritz is more than just a cocktail; it’s a celebration of flavor, creativity, and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment, this vibrant drink brings a touch of elegance to any occasion.
With its endless variations and easy preparation, it invites us to experiment and make it uniquely ours. Let’s raise a glass to the perfect blend of fruity freshness and sparkling sophistication. Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Strawberry Spritz?
A Strawberry Spritz is a refreshing cocktail inspired by Italian aperitivo culture. It combines ripe strawberries, Aperol or an orange-flavored liqueur, chilled Prosecco, soda water, and ice for a bubbly, fruity drink perfect for sunny afternoons or casual gatherings.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of Strawberry Spritz?
Yes! To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute Aperol with orange juice and replace Prosecco with sparkling water. You’ll still enjoy the fruity and bubbly essence of the drink without the alcohol.
What ingredients are essential for a Strawberry Spritz?
The essential ingredients include fresh strawberries, strawberry puree, Aperol (or a similar liqueur), chilled Prosecco, soda water, and ice. High-quality, fresh ingredients are key to achieving the perfect flavor.
What tools do I need to make a Strawberry Spritz?
You’ll need a muddler, a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, and the appropriate glassware, such as a wine or spritz glass. Additionally, have a spoon for gentle stirring and a knife for garnishes.
How can I enhance the flavor of a Strawberry Spritz?
Use fresh, ripe ingredients and measure each component carefully to balance the sweetness, citrus, and fizz. Chilling the ingredients and gently stirring the cocktail will also preserve its refreshing taste and effervescence.
Can I customize the Strawberry Spritz recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with variations such as adding fresh herbs (basil, mint), other fruits (raspberries, pineapple), or flavored syrups like elderflower. These additions can help tailor the drink to your taste or occasion.
How do I garnish a Strawberry Spritz?
Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice, a citrus peel, or a sprig of mint for enhanced aroma and a visually appealing presentation.
Can I prepare a Strawberry Spritz in advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the strawberry puree, measure the liqueur, and pre-chill your mixers ahead of time. Keep ingredients separate to maintain carbonation and assemble the drink just before serving.
What’s the best type of glassware for a Strawberry Spritz?
A large wine glass or traditional spritz glass works best. The wide bowl of the glass allows room for ice, garnishes, and the drink’s effervescence to shine.
Is a Strawberry Spritz suitable for large gatherings?
Absolutely! For group settings, consider setting up a DIY Strawberry Spritz Bar with pre-made components like strawberry puree and chilled mixers, allowing guests to customize their drinks easily.