I was lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun, when a thought struck me: why not bring the joy of happy hour into frozen form? These delightful Aperol Spritz Pops are my answer. This boozy dessert captures the vibrant punch of my favorite summer cocktail, combining the bittersweet notes of Aperol with bubbly Prosecco and a splash of fresh orange juice. Not only are they super easy to whip up, but they also promise to impress your friends at any summer gathering. Perfect for cooling off on a scorching day, these pops are a refreshing treat that will have you savoring every bite. Curious about how to make these fun popsicles that keep the summer spirit alive? Let’s dive in!

Why try these Aperol Spritz Pops?

Refreshing addition to your summer lineup: Light and bubbly, these pops are the ultimate way to cool down on a hot day.

Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that rivals your favorite frozen treats.

Perfect for parties: Impress your friends with a sophisticated dessert that brings a touch of cocktail fun indoors or poolside.

Boozy flavor: Each bite bursts with the iconic taste of Aperol and fresh citrus, offering a delightful twist on the classic spritz.

Versatile: With simple variations, you can get creative—try blending fruit or experimenting with different liquors for a unique twist!

For more summer inspirations, check out these fun Oreo Cake Pops to sweeten your celebrations!

Aperol Spritz Pops Ingredients

A refreshing treat to savor!

For the Pops
• Aperol – Defines the pops’ taste with its unique bittersweet flavors; don’t skip this ingredient!
• Prosecco – Adds a sweet, bubbly lift; feel free to substitute with any sparkling wine you like.
• Sparkling Water – Provides extra fizz and lightness; club soda can work as a substitute for more bubble action.
• Fresh Orange Juice – Infuses a bright, fruity flavor; bottled juice can be used, but fresh is always better!
• Simple Syrup – Sweetens the mix to balance the bitterness; can be omitted or swapped for honey/agave for a different sweetness.
• Lemon Juice – Boosts overall flavor brightness; fresh is preferred, but bottled in a pinch works too.
• Thinly Sliced Orange – Garnishes the molds and adds a lovely touch; any citrus slice can work beautifully.
• Popsicle Sticks – Essential for easy handling; any food-safe stick will do the trick.

Enjoy the delightful boozy experience of these Aperol Spritz Pops this summer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Aperol Spritz Pops

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of Aperol, 1 cup of Prosecco, 1 cup of sparkling water, 1 cup of fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup of simple syrup, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Whisk gently until everything is well blended and the mixture is a vibrant color. This will create the flavorful base for your Aperol Spritz Pops.

Step 2: Prepare the Molds
Take your popsicle molds and place a thin slice of orange inside each one, allowing the bright color and citrus aroma to infuse the pops. Make sure the orange slices sit upright without spilling in the mixture. This adds a beautiful presentation when you enjoy your frozen treats.

Step 3: Fill the Molds
Carefully pour the Aperol mixture into each popsicle mold, being cautious not to overfill to avoid spillage during freezing. Leave about 1/4 inch of space at the top of each mold to allow for expansion as the pops freeze. With vibrant hues, the molds should look enticing already!

Step 4: Insert Popsicle Sticks
After filling the molds, gently insert a popsicle stick into each one, ensuring it’s centered. This will help you hold onto the Aperol Spritz Pops once they’re frozen and ready to enjoy. If the sticks wobble, allow the mixture to set for about 30 minutes before returning to the freezer.

Step 5: Freeze the Pops
Transfer the filled molds to the freezer and let them freeze for at least 8 hours, or until they are completely solid. Check for doneness by gently pressing against the sides of the mold; they should feel firm. This long freeze ensures that the Aperol Spritz Pops maintain their refreshing texture.

Step 6: Release from Molds
To serve your Aperol Spritz Pops, run warm water gently over the outside of the molds for about 10 seconds. The warmth will help release the pops from the molds without breaking them. Carefully pull them out, and you’ll see the gorgeous orange slices peeking through each delightful pop.

Expert Tips for Aperol Spritz Pops

• Don’t Overfill Molds: Leave some space at the top of the molds for expansion while freezing. This avoids messy spills and ensures perfectly shaped pops.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh orange juice and lemon juice when possible. They enhance the vibrant flavor of your Aperol Spritz Pops immensely!

• Give it Time: Freeze the pops for the full 8 hours for the best texture. Rushing can lead to slushy pops instead of solid, refreshing treats.

• Mix Thoroughly: When combining the ingredients, ensure everything is well blended for even flavor distribution. Stir gently but well to mix the boozy goodness!

• Serve with Style: For added fun, serve your Aperol Spritz Pops in a bowl filled with ice, and pair them with an extra glass of Prosecco for a festive vibe.

Aperol Spritz Pops: Creative Twists

Feel free to personalize your Aperol Spritz Pops with these fun and exciting variations that will tempt your taste buds!

Liqueur Swap: Change Aperol for Campari or another flavored liqueur for a different flavor profile. The bitterness will vary, adding a unique depth.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or mint before freezing for a refreshing herbal note that elevates the pops’ complexity. Imagine enjoying a garden-fresh burst with each bite!
Berry Bliss: Blend in fresh strawberries or raspberries to create colorful, fruity pops. The sweetness of the berries complements the citrus perfectly.
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate lime or grapefruit juice in addition to or in place of orange juice for an extra tang. The variety in citrus flavors will surprise and delight your palate.
Sweetener Switch: Swap simple syrup for honey or agave for a more natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the icy treat. Each option offers a unique taste experience!
Frozen Fruit: Add chunks of frozen peaches or pineapples into the mixture for added fruitiness and texture. The bites of fruit will enhance each refreshing lick.

For even more creative inspiration, you can try pairing these pops with elegant treats like Oreo Cake Pops during your next summer gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Aperol Spritz Pops

Fridge: Store any unused pops in the molds or wrapped in cling film for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For long-term storage, keep your Aperol Spritz Pops in the molds and wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container. Enjoy within 3 weeks for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating: These pops don’t need reheating. To serve, briefly run warm water over the molds to easily release the frozen treats, ensuring a smooth pop-out experience.

What to Serve with Aperol Spritz Pops?

These delightful frozen treats are perfect for crafting a refreshing and vibrant summer spread that will keep your guests cool and smiling.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits will enhance the pops’ citrus flavors, making each bite feel like a tropical getaway. Juicy watermelon, tangy pineapple, and sweet berries provide a beautiful spectrum of colors and textures.
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil: The crunchy, toasted bread topped with fresh tomato and fragrant basil pairs beautifully with the pops’ bittersweetness, creating a savory contrast that delights the palate.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: Keep it light and refreshing, serving sparkling water infused with slices of lemon, lime, or orange, echoing the citrusy notes of the Aperol Spritz Pops while providing a bubbly lift.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses, such as goat cheese or brie, alongside some crunchy crackers offers a rich complement to the zesty pops. The mix of textures here is simply divine.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: For a sweet and salty pairing, these crunchy snacks wonderfully balance the pops’ sweetness, creating a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.
Pineapple Coconut Sorbet: A scoop of this tropical sorbet is a cool, creamy addition, enhancing the summery vibe while providing a delightful flavor combination with the Aperol Spritz Pops.
Prosecco Cocktails: Elevate the experience by serving a bubbly cocktail that mirrors the pops. Infuse your Prosecco with elderflower or peach for an elegant touch.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream on the side creates a luscious pairing, adding a smooth and sweet element that perfectly counterbalances the pops’ refreshing zing.
Light Summer Salad: A salad with mixed greens, citrus segments, and a light vinaigrette brings freshness to the table, harmonizing beautifully with the fruity flavors of the Aperol Spritz Pops.

Embrace the summer spirit with these delightful pairings that will surely turn your gathering into an unforgettable occasion!

Make Ahead Options

These Aperol Spritz Pops are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing treat any day of the week. You can prepare the popsicle mixture up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the Aperol, Prosecco, sparkling water, fresh orange juice, simple syrup, and lemon juice. Just refrigerate the mixture until you’re ready to fill the molds. After pouring the mixture into the molds with the slices of orange, insert the popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 8 hours until solid. When you’re ready to serve, simply run warm water over the molds for easy release. With these steps, you’ll have delicious Aperol Spritz Pops ready in no time, making them an effortless treat for busy weeknights or summer gatherings!

Aperol Spritz Pops Recipe FAQs

What are the best oranges to use for the slices in the pops?
Absolutely! For the slices, I recommend using fresh navel oranges or Valencia oranges as they are sweet and juicy, perfect for flavor and presentation. You want firm oranges with vibrant skin; avoid any with dark spots or softness, which may indicate overripeness.

How should I store my Aperol Spritz Pops?
I often store my pops right in the molds wrapped with cling film or foil in the freezer for up to 3 weeks. This helps retain their delightful flavor and texture. If you’re planning to use them within a week, you can leave them in the molds or just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze these pops for a longer duration?
Yes! While I recommend enjoying the Aperol Spritz Pops within 3 weeks for the best taste, they can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months if stored in an airtight container. Just keep in mind that the texture might slightly change over time, but they will still be a delicious treat!

What should I do if my pops are hard to remove from the molds?
The key to easy removal is to run warm water over the outside of the molds for about 10 seconds; this helps the pops loosen without breaking. If they’re still stubborn, gently twist the mold while pulling to release the pops. If you’ve overfilled the molds, they may freeze tightly, so always leave a little space for expansion!

Are these pops suitable for kids or people with allergies?
While these pops are inherently boozy and won’t be suitable for children or those avoiding alcohol, you can definitely make a non-alcoholic version by substituting Aperol with fruit juices like pomegranate or raspberry juice, and using soda instead of Prosecco. Always check for any allergies with the ingredients used, especially citrus, before serving.

Can I make variations of these Aperol Spritz Pops?
Very! You can adjust the flavor profiles by swapping Aperol for other flavored liqueurs, like Campari, or adding fresh herbs like mint for an aromatic twist. Getting creative with fruits like strawberries or raspberries can also enhance the pops’ taste and color, which I often do for added fun!