Strawberry Aperol and Grapefruit Gin Sour
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If you love your cocktails citrusy, slightly sweet, and stunning in the glass — the Strawberry Aperol & Grapefruit Gin Sour is calling your name. This spring-ready sipper combines the soft bitterness of Aperol, the brightness of grapefruit and lemon, and the floral edge of gin — all tied together with the dreamy texture of egg white foam.
It’s balanced, it’s beautiful, and it’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’re sipping sunshine.
This recipe is a riff on the classic gin sour, but with a seasonal twist. The strawberry Aperol adds a fruity bitterness that plays perfectly with the sharpness of grapefruit and the acidity of lemon. A touch of simple syrup keeps things smooth, while the egg white gives the cocktail its signature velvety texture and foamy top.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a sunny afternoon happy hour, or just want to shake something special, this cocktail is a showstopper.
Strawberry Aperol & Grapefruit Gin Sour
Ingredients
- 1 egg white
- ¾ oz grapefruit juice
- ½ oz lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- ¾ oz strawberry-infused Aperol* or regular Aperol
- 1.5 oz gin
- Garnish: half grapefruit slice
- Dust: dried strawberry powder optional but stunning
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker and dry shake (no ice) to emulsify the egg white.
- Add a large ice cube + regular ice and shake vigorously until well chilled and foamy.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with half a grapefruit slice and a dusting of dried strawberry powder.
Ingredient Notes
- Strawberry Aperol – Infuse Aperol with fresh strawberries for a few hours for added fruitiness. Regular Aperol still works beautifully if you’re in a pinch.
- Egg white – Adds creaminess and a rich mouthfeel. You can substitute with aquafaba (¾ oz) if you’re vegan or avoiding raw egg.
- Grapefruit & lemon juice – Fresh is key! These provide structure and balance.
- Gin – A citrus-forward or floral gin (like Bombay Sapphire or Botanist) complements the other ingredients.
Tips & Variations
- Make it zero-proof – Swap gin for a non-alcoholic botanical spirit and Aperol for a NA bitter orange aperitif.
- Batch the Aperol infusion – Soak sliced strawberries in Aperol for 6–12 hours, then strain and store in the fridge.
- Elevate the garnish – A line of strawberry powder across the foam or a dried citrus wheel makes it extra eye-catching.
When to Serve It
This cocktail is light, bright, and totally seasonal. Serve it at:
- Spring and summer brunches – A colorful and citrusy pre-meal drink.
- Garden parties and showers – With that pink hue and foamy top, it looks like celebration.
- Girls’ nights and date nights – Impress your guests with minimal effort.
- Any moment that needs a mood lift – Seriously, this one will make your day.
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