20 Refreshing Paper Plane Cocktail Recipes for Summer

Summer’s here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing Paper Plane cocktail? This modern classic, with its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and citrus, is a must-try for any home mixologist. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just lounging on the patio, our roundup of 20 twists on this beloved drink will keep your summer sipping exciting. Let’s shake things up!

Classic Paper Plane Cocktail

Shake up your cocktail game with the Classic Paper Plane, a modern masterpiece that balances bitter, sweet, and citrusy flavors in one elegant sip.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 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. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist by expressing the oils over the drink and then placing it on the rim.

The Classic Paper Plane stands out with its harmonious blend of herbal, citrus, and bitter notes, making it a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate depth in their cocktails.

Tip: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and ensure all ingredients are well chilled before mixing.

Bourbon Paper Plane Variation

Elevate your cocktail game with this Bourbon Paper Plane variation, a smooth, citrusy twist on the classic that’s perfect for sipping on a cozy evening.

Ingredients

• 1 oz bourbon
• 1 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist, for garnish

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, and 1 tsp simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds 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 drink to release the oils, then placing it on the rim.

This variation stands out with its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and citrus notes, making it a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate depth in their cocktails.

Tip: For an extra smooth texture, double strain the cocktail by using a fine mesh sieve when pouring it into the glass.

Smoky Paper Plane with Mezcal

Elevate your cocktail game with this Smoky Paper Plane, a mezcal twist on the classic that brings a warm, smoky depth to the bright and bitter original.

Ingredients

• 1 oz mezcal
• 1 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add 1 oz mezcal, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

The Smoky Paper Plane stands out with its perfect balance of smoky, bitter, and sweet, making it an unforgettable sip for any occasion.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, lightly torch the lemon twist before garnishing.

Paper Plane with a Twist of Grapefruit

Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane, where grapefruit adds a bright, citrusy punch.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Grapefruit twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, fresh grapefruit juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a grapefruit twist by twisting it over the drink to release its oils, then placing it on the rim of the glass.

The grapefruit’s tangy sweetness perfectly balances the bitter and herbal notes of the Aperol and Amaro, creating a cocktail that’s as complex as it is refreshing.

Tip: For an extra smooth texture, double strain the cocktail by pouring it through a fine mesh sieve after shaking.

Spicy Paper Plane with Chili Infused Aperol

Elevate your cocktail game with this Spicy Paper Plane, a bold twist on the classic that incorporates a chili-infused Aperol for a kick that lingers.

Ingredients

• 1 oz bourbon
• 1 oz chili-infused Aperol (see tip)
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Thin lemon wheel, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to chill it, then discard the ice.
2. Add 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz chili-infused Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/4 oz simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with fresh ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a thin lemon wheel on the rim.

The Spicy Paper Plane stands out with its perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and spicy notes, making it an unforgettable sip for those who dare.

Tip: To make chili-infused Aperol, steep 2 dried chili peppers in a bottle of Aperol for 24 hours, then strain.

Herbal Paper Plane with Fresh Basil

Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Herbal Paper Plane, where fresh basil adds a vibrant twist to the classic.

Ingredients

• 1 oz bourbon
• 1 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 4 fresh basil leaves
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a shaker, gently muddle the fresh basil leaves to release their aroma.
2. Add 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, and 1 oz fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes, cover, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass without ice.
5. Garnish with a small basil leaf on top for an aromatic finish.

The Herbal Paper Plane stands out with its perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and herbal notes, making it an unforgettable sip. The fresh basil not only adds a layer of complexity but also a pop of color that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Tip: For an even more pronounced basil flavor, let the muddled basil sit with the spirits for a minute before adding the lemon juice and ice.

Paper Plane with Honey Syrup

Elevate your cocktail game with this Paper Plane variation that introduces a sweet twist with honey syrup, blending bold flavors into a smooth, sippable delight.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and warm water, stirred to combine)
• Ice
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist by expressing the oils over the drink and then placing it on the rim of the glass.

The honey syrup softens the cocktail’s bitterness while enhancing its citrus and herbal notes, making it a perfectly balanced drink for any occasion.

Tip: For an extra smooth texture, double strain the cocktail by using a fine mesh sieve when pouring it into the glass.

Vegan Paper Plane with Aquafaba

Whisk up this Vegan Paper Plane cocktail with aquafaba for a frothy, refreshing twist on the classic that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz aquafaba (liquid from a can of chickpeas)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, fresh lemon juice, and aquafaba.
2. Fill the shaker with ice cubes, seal, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and frothy.
3. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist on the rim of the glass.

The aquafaba not only adds a silky texture but also creates a stunning foam top, making this Vegan Paper Plane a visually striking and palate-pleasing cocktail.

Tip: For the best foam, use aquafaba at room temperature and shake the cocktail as hard as you can.

Paper Plane with a Dash of Orange Bitters

Elevate your cocktail game with this Paper Plane, a modern classic that gets a citrusy twist with a dash of orange bitters.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Ice

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to chill it, then discard the ice.
2. Add 3/4 oz bourbon, 3/4 oz Aperol, 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino, 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1 dash orange bitters to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with fresh ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and serve immediately.

The addition of orange bitters introduces a subtle complexity that beautifully complements the Paper Plane’s balance of bitter, sweet, and sour.

Tip: For an extra cold cocktail, chill your glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Winter Spiced Paper Plane

Embrace the cozy vibes of winter with this Winter Spiced Paper Plane cocktail, a spirited twist on the classic that’s perfect for sipping by the fire.

Ingredients

• 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 tbsp maple syrup
• Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, fresh lemon juice, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1 tbsp maple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with an orange twist.

The Winter Spiced Paper Plane stands out with its harmonious blend of herbal, citrus, and warm spice notes, making it a memorable pick for holiday gatherings.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, rim the glass with a mix of cinnamon and sugar before pouring the cocktail.

Paper Plane with Lavender Infused Amaro

Elevate your cocktail game with this Paper Plane variation, where a hint of lavender-infused amaro adds a floral twist to the classic bitter-sweet balance.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz lavender-infused amaro (such as Nonino Quintessentia)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Lavender sprig, for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Aperol, lavender-infused amaro, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a lavender sprig for an aromatic finish.

The lavender-infused amaro not only introduces a subtle floral note but also deepens the cocktail’s complexity, making it a standout at any gathering.

Tip: For an extra touch of lavender, lightly bruise the sprig before garnishing to release its essential oils.

Tropical Paper Plane with Pineapple Juice

Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane cocktail, featuring pineapple juice for a sweet, sunny kick.

Ingredients

• 1 oz bourbon
• 1 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
• Ice cubes
• Pineapple slice, for garnish

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 about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a pineapple slice on the rim of the glass.

The Tropical Paper Plane swaps lemon for pineapple juice, offering a smoother, fruitier sip that’s perfect for sipping under the sun or as a bright counterpoint to a cozy evening in.

Tip: For an extra tropical vibe, rim your glass with a mix of sugar and crushed freeze-dried pineapple before pouring.

Paper Plane with a Splash of Sparkling Water

Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane, adding a splash of sparkling water for a bubbly finish that’s perfect for summer evenings.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker 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. Shake vigorously until well-chilled, about 15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Top with 1 oz sparkling water and gently stir to combine.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist.

The effervescence from the sparkling water lightens the bold flavors of the bourbon and amaro, creating a cocktail that’s both complex and incredibly refreshing.

Tip: For an extra chill, place your coupe glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before preparing the cocktail.

Paper Plane with Cucumber Infused Nonino

Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane, featuring cucumber-infused Nonino for a crisp, herbaceous finish.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz cucumber-infused Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced (for infusion)
• Ice
• Cucumber slice (for garnish)

Instructions

1. To infuse the Nonino, combine 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber with 3/4 oz Nonino in a jar. Seal and let sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, then strain.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 1/2 oz bourbon, 3/4 oz Aperol, 3/4 oz cucumber-infused Nonino, and 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a thin slice of cucumber.

The cucumber-infused Nonino adds a refreshing depth to the Paper Plane, making it the perfect sip for those warm evenings when you crave something both complex and invigorating.

Tip: For an extra chill, freeze your coupe glasses before serving.

Paper Plane with a Hint of Mint

Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane, where a hint of mint adds a cool, aromatic layer to the bold flavors.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 4 fresh mint leaves
• 1 tsp simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

1. In a shaker, gently muddle the fresh mint leaves with the simple syrup to release the mint’s aroma.
2. Add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, fresh lemon juice, and a handful of ice cubes to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a mint sprig for an extra touch of freshness.

The mint’s coolness perfectly balances the cocktail’s citrusy and herbal notes, making it an unforgettable sip. Tip: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and high-quality bourbon.

Paper Plane with Ginger Beer

Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane, where ginger beer adds a spicy kick that perfectly balances the drink’s citrusy notes.

Ingredients

• 1 oz bourbon
• 1 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 oz ginger beer
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker 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 about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Top with 2 oz ginger beer and gently stir to combine.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist before serving.

The ginger beer’s effervescence and spice transform the Paper Plane into a more dynamic drink, making it an unforgettable choice for your next gathering.

Tip: For an extra cold drink, chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before preparing the cocktail.

Paper Plane with a Touch of Vanilla

Elevate your cocktail game with this Paper Plane variation, where a hint of vanilla adds a smooth, aromatic twist to the classic bittersweet balance.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 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, 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds 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 drink to release its oils, then placing it on the rim.

The vanilla extract subtly rounds out the cocktail’s sharp edges, creating a harmonious blend that’s both sophisticated and inviting.

Tip: For an extra vanilla kick, rub the rim of the glass with a vanilla bean before pouring the cocktail.

Paper Plane with Rosemary Infused Bourbon

Elevate your cocktail game with this Paper Plane variation, where rosemary-infused bourbon adds a herbal twist to the classic.

Ingredients

• 1 oz rosemary-infused bourbon (see tip below)
• 1 oz Aperol
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 oz rosemary-infused bourbon, 1 oz Aperol, 1 oz Amaro Nonino, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1 tsp simple syrup.
2. Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker, cover, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig.

The rosemary-infused bourbon brings a subtle earthy note that beautifully balances the cocktail’s citrusy and bitter flavors, making it a sophisticated choice for your next dinner party.

Tip: To make rosemary-infused bourbon, combine 1 cup of bourbon with 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary in a jar. Let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours, then strain out the rosemary.

Paper Plane with a Squeeze of Lime

Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Paper Plane, adding a zesty squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheel, 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, 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz fresh lime juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim of the glass.

The squeeze of lime not only brightens the drink’s citrus notes but also adds a subtle complexity that makes this cocktail stand out.

Tip: For an even more vibrant flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon and lime juices and adjust the sweetness to your liking by tweaking the Amaro Nonino amount.

Paper Plane with Blackberry Garnish

Elevate your cocktail game with this modern twist on the classic Paper Plane, featuring a vibrant blackberry garnish that adds a fresh, fruity note to the bittersweet balance.

Ingredients

• 3/4 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Aperol
• 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3 fresh blackberries, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 3/4 oz bourbon, 3/4 oz Aperol, 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino, and 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice.
2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled, about 15 seconds.
3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Gently place 3 fresh blackberries on a cocktail pick and rest it on the rim of the glass for garnish.

The blackberry garnish not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a subtle sweetness that complements the cocktail’s complex flavors beautifully.

Tip: For an extra touch, lightly muddle one blackberry in the shaker before adding the other ingredients to infuse the drink with even more berry flavor.

Conclusion

With 20 refreshing Paper Plane cocktail recipes, this roundup is your summer sipping guide. Whether you’re a mixology newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s a twist here for everyone. We’d love to hear which recipe soared to the top of your list—drop us a comment below! Loved this roundup? Pin it to your Pinterest and spread the cocktail cheer. Cheers to a flavorful summer!

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