Cherry Aperol Margarita

Because one cherry drink is never enough. 🍒
This Cherry Aperol Margarita is tart, bright, and just the right amount of bitter, like your favorite group chat in cocktail form. With tequila as the base, Aperol for that citrusy bite, and cherry syrup to tie it all together, it’s a summer-ready twist on a classic marg.

It’s the kind of cocktail that feels both familiar and totally new and it sips like a dream.

Margaritas are always a good idea, but this version brings something a little different. The Aperol adds a soft bitterness and subtle orange note that plays beautifully with the lime and Cointreau, while the cherry syrup brings a juicy, slightly sweet punch of color and flavor.

The result is layered, refreshing, and absolutely perfect for kicking off a cherry-filled cocktail week (or just any night you’re feeling cute with a shaker).

Cherry Aperol Margarita

This Cherry Aperol Margarita blends tequila, Aperol, cherry syrup, lime, and Cointreau into a tart, citrusy, and lightly bitter twist on the classic. Bright, bold, and ready for summer.

Print Recipe

Servings 1 Margarita

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila blanco recommended
• ¾ oz Aperol
• ¾ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz cherry syrup see recipe below or use store-bought
• ½ oz Cointreau
• Ice
• Garnish: lime wheel or cherry

Instructions

• Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Shake well until chilled.
• Double strain into a coupe or rocks glass over fresh ice.
• Garnish and sip!

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Ingredient Notes

• Tequila – Use a smooth blanco with fresh agave notes. It anchors the drink while letting the cherry and Aperol shine.
• Aperol – Adds bitterness and a touch of citrus, less punchy than Campari, which keeps the drink light.
• Cherry syrup – Make your own by simmering cherries with sugar and water (see recipe below), or use a high-quality bottled version.
• Cointreau – A clean orange liqueur that brings everything together.
• Lime juice – Brightens and balances the sweetness.

Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy – Muddle a jalapeño slice before shaking.
• Add sparkle – Top with a splash of soda water for a spritz-y feel.
• Switch spirits – Mezcal adds smoke, or try vodka for something more neutral.
• Rim it – Salt or sugar? You choose.

When to Serve It

This cocktail is perfect for cherry season and beyond. Serve it at:

• Summer happy hours
• Dinner party aperitifs
• Girls’ night in (or out)
• Any time you want something pretty, tart, and a little unexpected

Xoxo, cheers!