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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.

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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 syrup

Campari with added sweetness to match Aperol's profile

Best for:

Paper Plane cocktailbitter-sweet cocktailsmodern classics

The simple syrup balances Campari's extra bitterness

Aperitivo Select

3/4 oz

Italian aperitif with similar flavor profile to Aperol

Best for:

Paper Plane cocktailaperitif cocktailsItalian cocktails

Closest commercial substitute with similar sweetness and bitterness

Orange Liqueur + Orange Bitters

1/2 oz triple sec + 1/4 oz orange bitters

Homemade blend using triple sec or Cointreau with orange bitters

Best for:

Paper Plane cocktailcustom drinksexperimental cocktails

Add a splash of simple syrup for sweetness balance

Cynar + Orange Juice

1/2 oz Cynar + 1/4 oz orange juice

Artichoke-based bitter with added orange for sweetness

Best for:

Paper Plane cocktailherbal cocktailscomplex drinks

More herbal than Aperol but creates an interesting variation

Non-Alcoholic Aperitif

3/4 oz

Alcohol-free aperitif alternatives for mocktail Paper Planes

Best for:

mocktail Paper Planenon-alcoholic drinksdaytime drinking

Look for brands like Lyre's or Seedlip for alcohol-free options

Frequently Asked Questions

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.