A Slightly Sweet Version Of A Classic Paper Plane
When winter rolls around and citrus is at its peak, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a vibrant, citrusy cocktail. Enter the Blood Orange Paper Plane—a refreshing twist on the classic bourbon-based drink, swapping out lemon juice for the rich, slightly sweet, and beautifully hued juice of blood oranges.
This cocktail is as stunning as it is delicious, making it the perfect sip for cozy nights, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Seasonal Twist: Blood oranges add a touch of natural sweetness and a gorgeous deep red hue.
- Balanced Flavors: The bittersweet blend of Aperol and Amaro Nonino perfectly complements the warmth of bourbon and the brightness of citrus.
- Easy To Make: Just shake, strain, and enjoy–no complicated steps required.
Craving more easy cocktail recipes? Try my pomegranate tequila cosmo, a classic margarita, or this light, refreshing French 75 next!
What You’ll Need
Same as with a classic paper plane cocktail, you’ll need a bourbon you love, Aperol, and Amaro Nonino. The variation is that instead of fresh lemon juice, we’re using fresh blood orange juice—yum!
If you want, it could be fun to add a blood orange slice for garnish, but totally optional!
Substitutions & Variations
- No Blood Oranges? Use fresh lemon juice for a more traditional Paper Plane or try Cara Cara oranges for a slightly sweeter twist.
- Different Amaro? If you can’t find Amaro Nonino, try substituting with another amaro like Montenegro for a similar depth of flavor.
- Make it a Mocktail: Replace bourbon with a zero-proof whiskey alternative and swap amaro for a non-alcoholic aperitif.
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh blood orange juice.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a coupe or rocks glass.
- Garnish with a slice of blood orange and serve immediately.
Expert Tips!
- Use fresh juice: Freshly squeeze blood orange juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor and vibrancy.
- Chill your glass: For an ultra-refreshing cocktail, place your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before serving.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink at a touch of simple syrup.
- No cocktail shaker? Use a mason jar with a lid. Just add the ingredients, shake well, then strain into your glass.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail, pears, beautifully with charcuterie boards, savory appetizers, or a spicy main course like roasted harissa chicken.
This cocktail feels both familiar and exciting, making it an instant favorite for citrus season. If you make this Blood Orange Paper Plane recipe, please let us know by leaving a review and rating below!
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4-Ingredient Blood Orange Paper Plane Cocktail
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 oz bourbon,
- 3 oz aperol
- 3 oz amaro nonino
- 3 oz fresh blood orange juice
- blood orange slices or segments, optional garnish
Instructions
- To make the cocktail: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in bourbon, aperol, amaro nonino, and freshly squeezed blood orange juice. Place top on and shake for about 1 minute. Pour over a large ice cube, garnish with blood orange, and enjoy!
Let us know your thoughts!