18 Refreshing Paper Plane Cocktail Recipes for Every Occasion

There’s something undeniably magical about the Paper Plane cocktail—its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and citrus notes makes it a standout drink for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a lively summer barbecue or seeking a cozy winter warmer, our roundup of 18 refreshing variations will inspire your next mixology adventure. Dive in to discover your new favorite twist on this modern classic!

Classic Paper Plane Cocktail

Fancy a cocktail that balances sweet, sour, and bitter with precision? The Classic Paper Plane is your go-to, blending bourbon, Aperol, and more for a refreshing sip.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 3/4 oz bourbon
  • 3/4 oz Aperol
  • 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• For serving:
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
2. Add 3/4 oz bourbon, 3/4 oz Aperol, 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino, and 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist by twisting it over the glass to release its oils, then placing it on the rim.

Silky smooth with a vibrant hue, the Classic Paper Plane offers a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve it as a sophisticated aperitif or a bold nightcap.

Bourbon Paper Plane Variation

Kick off your evening with this Bourbon Paper Plane Variation, a bold twist on the classic cocktail that balances sweet, sour, and bitter notes perfectly.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill the ingredients effectively.
2. Pour 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, and 1 oz fresh lemon juice into the shaker.
3. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to mix and chill the cocktail thoroughly.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass for a sleek presentation.
5. Garnish with a thin lemon twist if desired, twisting it over the drink to release its oils before dropping it in.

Serve immediately to enjoy the cocktail at its peak. Smooth yet complex, this variation offers a harmonious blend of flavors that linger pleasantly. Try serving it alongside dark chocolate to enhance its bitter notes.

Smoky Paper Plane with Mezcal

Just when you thought the Paper Plane couldn’t get any better, we swapped bourbon for mezcal. The result? A smoky, complex twist on the modern classic.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 3/4 oz mezcal
  • 3/4 oz Aperol
  • 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Add 3/4 oz mezcal, 3/4 oz Aperol, 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino, and 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass without ice.
5. Tip: Use a fine mesh strainer for a smoother texture.
6. Tip: Chill the glass beforehand for an extra crisp sip.
7. Tip: Garnish with a lemon twist for a aromatic finish.

Rich in smoky depth with a bright citrus punch, this cocktail balances bitterness and sweetness perfectly. Serve it alongside spicy snacks to complement its bold flavors.

Paper Plane with a Citrus Twist

Zesty and refreshing, this cocktail blends bold flavors with a smooth finish. Perfect for summer evenings or brunch with friends.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 oz fresh orange juice
  • 1 tsp simple syrup
  • Ice cubes
• For garnish:
  • 1 orange twist

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
2. Add 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 1 oz fresh orange juice, and 1 tsp simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture slightly.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with an orange twist by expressing the oils over the drink and then placing it on the rim.

Packed with citrusy brightness and herbal depth, this cocktail offers a balanced sip every time. Serve it alongside a cheese plate for an elevated happy hour experience.

Herbal Paper Plane with Rosemary

Fancy a cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is herbaceous? This Herbal Paper Plane with Rosemary twists the classic with a fragrant kick.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 3/4 oz bourbon
  • 3/4 oz Aperol
  • 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small rosemary sprig

Instructions

1. Chill a coupe glass by filling it with ice water. Set aside.
2. In a shaker, combine bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice.
3. Add a handful of ice to the shaker. Secure the lid.
4. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well-chilled.
5. Discard the ice water from the coupe glass.
6. Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
7. Gently clap the rosemary sprig between your hands to release its oils.
8. Garnish the cocktail with the rosemary sprig.

Perfectly balanced, this cocktail offers a silky texture with a bright, herbal finish. Serve it alongside a charcuterie board for an elegant touch.

Spicy Paper Plane with Jalapeño

Fancy a cocktail that packs a punch? The Spicy Paper Plane with Jalapeño twists the classic with a fiery kick, perfect for those who love a bold flavor profile.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2 slices jalapeño

Instructions

1. In a shaker, muddle the jalapeño slices to release their spice.
2. Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice, ensuring it’s two-thirds full for optimal chilling.
4. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to blend the flavors and chill the mixture.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass to serve.

Combining the herbal notes of Amaro with the heat of jalapeño creates a complex, layered drink. Serve it with a thin jalapeño slice on the rim for an extra spicy garnish.

Paper Plane with Honey Syrup

Never underestimate the power of a well-balanced cocktail. The Paper Plane with Honey Syrup is a modern classic that’s both bold and refreshing.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 3/4 oz bourbon
  • 3/4 oz Aperol
  • 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)

Instructions

1. Combine bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup in a cocktail shaker.
2. Fill the shaker with ice to the top. Secure the lid tightly.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture properly.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass through a fine mesh strainer for a smooth texture.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with a lemon twist if desired.

Just the right mix of bitter, sweet, and sour, this cocktail shines with its silky texture. Try serving it alongside dark chocolate to enhance its herbal notes.

Vegan Paper Plane with Aquafaba

Whipping up a Vegan Paper Plane with Aquafaba is simpler than you think. This cocktail swaps traditional ingredients for plant-based alternatives without losing its punch.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1.5 oz bourbon
  • 0.75 oz Aperol
  • 0.75 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 0.75 oz aquafaba (chickpea brine)
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Chill a coupe glass by filling it with ice and water. Set aside.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, lemon juice, and aquafaba.
3. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and emulsify the ingredients.
5. Empty the coupe glass of ice and water.
6. Strain the cocktail into the chilled coupe glass.
7. Serve immediately.

A perfectly balanced Vegan Paper Plane with Aquafaba offers a silky texture and a complex flavor profile. Try garnishing with a lemon twist for an extra zesty note.

Paper Plane with Ginger Beer

Create a refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane cocktail by adding ginger beer for a spicy kick. This version balances sweet, sour, and bitter flavors with a fizzy finish.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2 oz ginger beer
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
2. Add 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, and 1 oz fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture slightly.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Top with 2 oz ginger beer for a spicy, fizzy finish.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist if desired, by twisting the peel over the glass to release oils, then dropping it in.

The cocktail offers a vibrant mix of herbal, citrus, and spicy notes, with the ginger beer adding a lively effervescence. Serve it as a sophisticated aperitif or a bold nightcap.

Winter Spiced Paper Plane

Perfect for chilly evenings, the Winter Spiced Paper Plane blends bold flavors with a comforting warmth. This cocktail is a twist on the classic, infused with seasonal spices.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice.
2. Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes to the top.
4. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
6. Garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon on top for aroma.

Rich in spice and citrus, this cocktail offers a smooth finish with a warming aftertaste. Serve it alongside a dark chocolate dessert to complement its complex flavors.

Paper Plane with Elderflower Liqueur

Unleash a modern twist on the classic Paper Plane cocktail by incorporating elderflower liqueur for a floral kick. This version balances bitter, sweet, and floral notes perfectly.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz elderflower liqueur
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
2. Add 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, and 1 oz elderflower liqueur to the shaker.
3. Squeeze 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice into the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture properly.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist for an aromatic finish.

Just the right mix of bitter and sweet, this cocktail offers a silky texture with a vibrant floral aroma. Serve it as a sophisticated aperitif or pair with light desserts for a contrasting flavor experience.

Tropical Paper Plane with Pineapple

Unleash a burst of tropical flavors with this refreshing cocktail. Perfect for summer evenings, it combines the tang of pineapple with the sophistication of a classic Paper Plane.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
• 1 oz bourbon
• 1 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
• Ice cubes
• For garnish:
• Pineapple slice
• Fresh mint leaf

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
2. Add 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, and 1 oz fresh pineapple juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well chilled. Tip: The shake should be strong enough to frost the shaker.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass. Tip: Chilling the glass beforehand enhances the drinking experience.
5. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a fresh mint leaf. Tip: Slap the mint leaf between your hands before adding to release its aroma.

Your Tropical Paper Plane with Pineapple is a vibrant mix of sweet, bitter, and herbal notes. Serve it with a side of grilled pineapple for an extra tropical twist.

Paper Plane with Cucumber Infusion

Every cocktail enthusiast should try this refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane. The cucumber infusion adds a crisp, clean layer to the bold flavors.

Ingredients

• For the cucumber infusion:
  • 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup bourbon
• For the cocktail:
  • 3/4 oz Aperol
  • 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 3/4 oz cucumber-infused bourbon
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Combine the sliced cucumber and bourbon in a jar. Seal tightly and let infuse in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Strain into a clean bottle, discarding the cucumber slices.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes. Add the Aperol, Amaro Nonino, fresh lemon juice, and cucumber-infused bourbon.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well chilled. Tip: The shake should be firm to properly dilute and chill the cocktail.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Tip: Chilling the glass beforehand ensures the cocktail stays cold longer.
5. Serve immediately. Tip: Garnish with a thin cucumber slice for an elegant touch.

This cocktail balances herbal, citrus, and cucumber notes beautifully. The texture is smooth with a slight effervescence from the shake. Try serving it as a sophisticated opener for summer dinners.

Sparkling Paper Plane with Prosecco

Ready to elevate your cocktail game? This Sparkling Paper Plane with Prosecco blends bitter, sweet, and bubbly for a refreshing twist.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2 oz Prosecco, chilled

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, and 1 oz fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture slightly.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Top with 2 oz chilled Prosecco for a sparkling finish.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist, if desired, by twisting the peel over the glass to release oils, then dropping it in.

Effortlessly sophisticated, this cocktail offers a harmonious balance of flavors with a fizzy lift. Serve it at your next brunch for a touch of elegance.

Paper Plane with Blackberry Garnish

This cocktail balances sweet, sour, and bitter with a fresh blackberry twist.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• For the garnish:
  • 3 fresh blackberries

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to the top.
2. Add 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, and 1 oz fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture properly.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass for a sleek presentation.
5. Gently place 3 fresh blackberries on a skewer for garnish.
6. Rest the skewer on the rim of the glass to add a pop of color and flavor.

Delight in the harmonious blend of flavors with each sip. The blackberries add a subtle sweetness that complements the cocktail’s complexity. Serve it at your next dinner party for a sophisticated touch.

Autumn Paper Plane with Apple Cider

Zesty and refreshing, this Autumn Paper Plane with Apple Cider is a seasonal twist on the classic cocktail. Perfect for cozy evenings, it combines bourbon, apple cider, and a hint of lemon for balance.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 1.5 oz bourbon
  • 1.5 oz apple cider
  • 0.75 oz Aperol
  • 0.75 oz lemon juice
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
2. Add 1.5 oz bourbon, 1.5 oz apple cider, 0.75 oz Aperol, and 0.75 oz lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well chilled. Tip: The colder, the better for a crisp taste.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass. Tip: Chilling the glass beforehand enhances the drinking experience.
5. Garnish with a thin apple slice on the rim. Tip: Use a mandoline for uniformly thin slices.

Crisp and slightly tart, this cocktail offers a delightful contrast of flavors. Serve it as a sophisticated start to your autumn gatherings or enjoy it solo by the fire.

Paper Plane with Lavender Bitters

Rustle up a refreshing Paper Plane cocktail with a floral twist. This version uses lavender bitters for a unique depth.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 3/4 oz bourbon
  • 3/4 oz Aperol
  • 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2 dashes lavender bitters
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
2. Add 3/4 oz bourbon, 3/4 oz Aperol, 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino, and 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Add 2 dashes of lavender bitters to the mix.
4. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of lavender for an aromatic touch.

Just the right balance of bitter, sweet, and floral, this cocktail is a sophisticated sipper. Serve it at your next gathering for a conversation-starting drink.

Paper Plane with a Minty Freshness

Vibrant and refreshing, this cocktail combines bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh mint for a twist on the classic Paper Plane.

Ingredients

• For the cocktail:
  • 3/4 oz bourbon
  • 3/4 oz Aperol
  • 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 4 fresh mint leaves
• For garnish:
  • 1 fresh mint sprig

Instructions

1. In a shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves to release their oils.
2. Add bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice, ensuring it’s two-thirds full for proper dilution.
4. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients thoroughly.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe glass to avoid ice shards and ensure a smooth sip.
6. Garnish with a mint sprig by lightly slapping it against your hand to awaken the aroma before placing it on the drink.

Kick back with this cocktail to enjoy its balanced bitterness, citrusy sharpness, and minty freshness. Serve it at your next gathering for a sophisticated yet approachable drink.

Conclusion

Unquestionably, our roundup of 18 Refreshing Paper Plane Cocktail Recipes offers a treasure trove of inspiration for every occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious newbie, there’s a recipe here to delight your palate. We’d love to hear which ones become your favorites—drop us a comment below! And if you enjoyed this collection, don’t forget to share the love on Pinterest. Cheers to your next cocktail adventure!

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