Delicious Paper Plane Cocktail Recipe
This paper plane cocktail is easy to make with equal parts bourbon, Aperol, amaro, and lemon juice. A modern classic, it’s boozy, bright, and delicious!
A Little History
As classic cocktails go, the paper plane is a new kid on the block, developed in just 2008.
The drink was created by Sam Ross for the menu of the cocktail bar The Violet Hour in Chicago. Ross named it after the M.I.A. song “Paper Planes,” a 2007 hit.
The paper plane cocktail is a twist on the Prohibition-era cocktail known as the Last Word, made with gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice. Ross substituted bourbon for gin, lime for lemon, and added Campari and Amaro Nonino for bittersweet complexity. He later replaced Campari with Aperol to create the cocktail we enjoy today.
Paper Plane Cocktail Ingredients
This paper plane cocktail recipe is easy to make with 4 ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bourbon | ¾ ounce |
| Aperol | ¾ ounce |
| Amaro Nonino | ¾ ounce |
| Fresh lemon juice | ¾ ounce |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Replace the Aperol with Campari: For a bolder flavor, but you may want to adjust the sweetness.
- Use a different amaro: If you don’t have Amaro Nonino, any herbal liqueur will work.
- Use rye instead of bourbon: For a spicier twist on this classic.
How to Make a Paper Plane Cocktail
This paper plane recipe is one of the easiest cocktails to make at home!
- Combine ¾ ounce of bourbon, Aperol, amaro, and fresh lemon juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake until well chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Tip: Garnish with an orange or lemon twist to enhance the citrus flavor.
Cheers!
More Classic Cocktails to Try
If you love this paper plane cocktail recipe, try one of these classic drinks next:
Conclusion
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy night in, the paper plane cocktail is a perfect choice. With its balanced flavors and vibrant presentation, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy this modern classic and explore the variations that suit your palate!