Aperol Substitute for Paper Plane Cocktail: Best Alternatives
Discover the best substitutes for Aperol in the Paper Plane cocktail. Learn about alternative aperitifs and how to recreate this modern classic when you don't have Aperol.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for Aperol in a Paper Plane are Campari (with added sweetness), Aperitivo Select, or a homemade blend of orange liqueur with bitters. Each maintains the bitter-sweet balance essential for this cocktail's success.
Best Substitutes
Campari + Simple Syrup
3/4 oz Campari + 1/4 oz simple syrupCampari with added sweetness to match Aperol's profile
Best for:
The simple syrup balances Campari's extra bitterness
Aperitivo Select
3/4 ozItalian aperitif with similar flavor profile to Aperol
Best for:
Closest commercial substitute with similar sweetness and bitterness
Orange Liqueur + Orange Bitters
1/2 oz triple sec + 1/4 oz orange bittersHomemade blend using triple sec or Cointreau with orange bitters
Best for:
Add a splash of simple syrup for sweetness balance
Cynar + Orange Juice
1/2 oz Cynar + 1/4 oz orange juiceArtichoke-based bitter with added orange for sweetness
Best for:
More herbal than Aperol but creates an interesting variation
Non-Alcoholic Aperitif
3/4 ozAlcohol-free aperitif alternatives for mocktail Paper Planes
Best for:
Look for brands like Lyre's or Seedlip for alcohol-free options
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for Aperol in a Paper Plane?
Campari with added simple syrup is the closest substitute, followed by Aperitivo Select. Both maintain the bitter-sweet profile essential for the Paper Plane's balance.
Can I make a Paper Plane without Aperol?
Yes! Use Campari with simple syrup, Aperitivo Select, or make a homemade blend using orange liqueur, orange bitters, and simple syrup. The key is maintaining the bitter-sweet balance.
What's the difference between Aperol and Campari in a Paper Plane?
Aperol is sweeter and less bitter than Campari. In a Paper Plane, Aperol creates a more balanced, approachable drink, while Campari makes a more intense, bitter cocktail that needs sweetening.
Can I use triple sec instead of Aperol in a Paper Plane?
Yes, but you'll need to add orange bitters and simple syrup to recreate Aperol's bitter-sweet profile. Triple sec alone is too sweet for an authentic Paper Plane.
Why is Aperol important in a Paper Plane?
Aperol provides the perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness that complements the bourbon and Amaro Nonino. It's the key ingredient that makes the Paper Plane so well-balanced and drinkable.
Summary
Discover the best substitutes for Aperol in the Paper Plane cocktail. Learn about alternative aperitifs and how to recreate this modern classic when you don't have Aperol.