Hi friends! Today I’m sharing my Winter Wassail Aperol Spritz Recipe: The Ultimate Holiday Cocktail, and I am fully leaning into the magic of this season. Thanksgiving is next week, early Black Friday sales have already taken over my online shopping carts, and we’ve officially had our first snow — so my holiday switch has been flipped on. This is my time to shine with decor, cozy comfort food, and of course, all the festive drinks. You all know I love creating fun holiday cocktails each year, so naturally I had to bring you my newest obsession: the Winter Wassail Aperol Spritz Recipe that tastes like Christmas in a glass.
Why I Love This Holiday Aperol Spritz
The classic Aperol Spritz had its moment during everyone’s European “hot girl summer,” but I’m proudly carrying that energy straight into the holidays. This winter version is cozy, crisp, a little tart, and completely magical thanks to the winter wassail.
Plus, it’s the easiest thing ever to batch when I’m hosting — and y’all know hosting is basically my personality this time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Feel free to screenshot this for later!)
- 3 oz Aperol
- 3 oz Winter Wassail (Trader Joe’s or similar spiced punch)
- 3–4 oz Champagne or Prosecco
- Fresh orange slices
- Fresh cranberries
- Fresh rosemary sprig
- Ice
How to Make a Winter Wassail Aperol Spritz
This takes literally less than two minutes — which is exactly what I need when I’m running around prepping for the girls, hosting, or trying to get a holiday movie started before everyone loses interest.
Step-by-Step:
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Pour in the Aperol and the winter wassail.
- Top with champagne or prosecco until it reaches the level you like.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices, cranberries, and a rosemary sprig.
- Give it a gentle stir and enjoy your beautiful, festive masterpiece.
Tips to Make It Extra Fun
Because I can’t help myself:
- Freeze cranberries in advance so they double as ice cubes.
- Add a cinnamon stick if you want a stronger holiday vibe.
- Rim your glass with sugar + orange zest for a little sparkle.
- Want it sweeter? Add a splash of simple syrup.
When to Serve This Cocktail
Honestly? Whenever. But it’s perfect for:
- Holiday parties
- Tree decorating night
- Christmas Eve cocktail hour
- Girls’ night in
- Hosting your in-laws
- Watching holiday movies in pajamas
Basically, anytime you want to feel festive with zero effort.
I can’t tell you how obsessed I am with this Winter Wassail Aperol Spritz Recipe. It’s easy, it’s pretty, it feels special, and it instantly puts me into my happiest holiday mood. If you make one festive cocktail this season, let it be this one, and tag me because I want to see all your holiday moments.
Cheers to snow days, sparkly decor, and cozy nights at home with a delicious spritz in hand.
Happy holidays, friends! ❤️🎄