18 Refreshing Negroni Recipes with a Twist

Author name

March 30, 2025

Are you tired of the same old classic cocktails? Look no further than the Negroni, a timeless favorite that’s getting a modern makeover. This iconic drink typically consists of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, but we’re taking it to the next level by experimenting with different ingredients and twists. From boozy additions like whiskey and mezcal to fruity infusions like orange and pineapple, there’s a Negroni recipe for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking to spice up your cocktail game, these 18 refreshing Negroni recipes are sure to impress.

Classic Negroni with Orange Peel Garnish

Classic Negroni with Orange Peel Garnish
Experience the perfect harmony of bitter, sweet, and citrusy flavors with this timeless cocktail recipe. The Negroni is a staple of the classic cocktail canon, and the addition of an orange peel garnish elevates its elegance.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces Gin
– 1/2 ounce Campari
– 1/2 ounce Sweet Vermouth
– Orange twist or peel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth over the ice.
3. Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Express an orange twist or peel over the drink by gently squeezing it to release its oils onto the surface of the cocktail.
6. Garnish with the expressed orange peel, securing it to the rim of the glass if desired.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes (stirring and serving)

Enjoy your classic Negroni with a touch of citrus sophistication!

Negroni Sbagliato with Prosecco

Negroni Sbagliato with Prosecco
This Italian-inspired cocktail is a variation of the classic Negroni, substituting Prosecco for the gin to create a fizzy and fruity twist.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 oz Prosecco
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Campari and sweet vermouth.
3. Shake gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a wine glass filled with ice.
5. Top with Prosecco.
6. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 2-3 minutes.

Boulevardier Cocktail (Whiskey Negroni)

Boulevardier Cocktail (Whiskey Negroni)
The Boulevardier is a whiskey-based variation of the classic Negroni cocktail, substituting bourbon or rye for the gin. This drink’s complex flavor profile makes it a perfect choice for those who prefer whiskey over other spirits.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
– 1/2 ounce Campari
– 1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
– Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon or rye whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink, then use as garnish.

Cooking Time: None

Enjoy your Boulevardier Cocktail!

White Negroni with Gin and Lillet Blanc

White Negroni with Gin and Lillet Blanc
Elevate your cocktail game with this crisp and refreshing twist on the classic Negroni. The combination of gin, Lillet Blanc, and sweet vermouth creates a harmonious balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, Lillet Blanc, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir for approximately 20-25 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink, then use as garnish.

Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a culinary dish.

Negroni Spritz with Aperol and Soda

Negroni Spritz with Aperol and Soda
This refreshing twist on the classic Spritz combines the bitter sweetness of Aperol with the boldness of Campari, perfect for warm days and social gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz Aperol
– 1 oz Prosecco or sparkling wine
– 4 oz soda water (e.g., San Pellegrino)
– Slice of orange, for garnish
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Aperol and top with Prosecco or sparkling wine.
3. Add soda water to taste, stirring gently to combine.
4. Garnish with an orange slice.

Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in 2 minutes.

Rosé Negroni with Pink Gin and Rosé Vermouth

Rosé Negroni with Pink Gin and Rosé Vermouth
Elevate the classic Negroni by substituting gin with pink gin and vermouth with rosé vermouth, creating a romantic and fruity twist on this timeless cocktail.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 1/2 oz Pink Gin
– 1/2 oz Rosé Vermouth
– 1/4 oz Campari
– Ice
– Orange twist or slice (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, pink gin, rosé vermouth, and Campari.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist or slice, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This is a mixed drink, not a culinary dish.

Smoky Mezcal Negroni

Smoky Mezcal Negroni
Elevate your cocktail game with this smoky twist on the classic Negroni. Mezcal’s distinct flavor profile adds depth and complexity to this refreshing drink.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz mezcal
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink, then use as garnish.

Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe.

Autumn Negroni with Apple Cider and Cinnamon

Autumn Negroni with Apple Cider and Cinnamon
As the seasons change, give your classic Negroni a cozy makeover by incorporating apple cider and cinnamon into this Autumn-inspired cocktail. This drink is perfect for sipping on a crisp fall evening while enjoying the company of friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 oz apple cider
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Pour in the apple cider and stir gently to combine.
6. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the top of the drink.
7. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to serve)

Negroni Sour with Egg White Foam

Negroni Sour with Egg White Foam
This Negroni-inspired sour cocktail gets a creamy twist by incorporating egg white foam, adding texture and visual appeal to your drink. Perfect for adventurous mixologists looking to shake things up!

Ingredients:

– 2 oz Gin
– 1 oz Campari
– 1 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 egg white
– Orange twist or slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, Campari, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg white until frothy.
4. Slowly add the egg white mixture to the cocktail shaker while continuously shaking for another 5-6 seconds.
5. Strain the Negroni Sour into a chilled coupe glass or rocks glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.

Cooking Time: None! This is a spirit-forward cocktail, perfect for serving immediately.

Coffee-Infused Negroni

Coffee-Infused Negroni
A twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, this coffee-infused version adds depth and richness to the original. Perfect for those who love a bold drink.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (about 1 oz)
– Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add the cooled coffee, gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange twist.

Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy cocktail to make.

Negroni Granita for a Frozen Treat

Negroni Granita for a Frozen Treat
Take a break from the heat and enjoy this unique frozen treat inspired by the classic Negroni cocktail.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup mixed citrus juice (orange, lemon, lime)
– 1/2 cup simple syrup
– 1/4 cup gin
– 1/4 cup Campari
– 1/4 cup sweet vermouth
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the citrus juice and simple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth to the bowl and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight, scraping the mixture with a fork every 30 minutes to form crystals (granita).
5. Once frozen, scoop the Negroni Granita into bowls and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on desired consistency)

Bitter Orange Negroni with Blood Orange Juice

Bitter Orange Negroni with Blood Orange Juice
Elevate your classic Negroni by adding a burst of citrus flavor from blood orange juice and the subtle bitterness of bitter orange liqueur. This refreshing twist on the classic cocktail is perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you want to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 1/4 oz Bitter Orange Liqueur
– 3 oz Blood Orange Juice
– Ice
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and bitter orange liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with blood orange juice.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!

Negroni Highball with Tonic Water

Negroni Highball with Tonic Water
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Negroni.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– Squeeze of Orange Peel (optional)
– Tonic Water
– Ice

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth over the ice.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Squeeze an orange peel over the drink (if using), then drop it in.
5. Top with tonic water.
6. Stir briefly to combine.

Cooking Time: None needed! Just mix and enjoy.

Pineapple-Infused Tropical Negroni

Pineapple-Infused Tropical Negroni
Escape to a tropical paradise with this twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. The addition of pineapple-infused gin and a splash of citrusy liqueur gives this drink a refreshing and fruity spin.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz pineapple-infused gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz Cynar
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup
– Pineapple wedges and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mixing glass, combine gin, Campari, Cynar, and lime juice.
2. Add simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a sprig of mint.

Cooking Time: N/A

Herbal Negroni with Rosemary and Thyme

Herbal Negroni with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your classic Negroni cocktail by infusing it with the herbaceous flavors of rosemary and thyme. This botanical twist on a timeless drink is perfect for adventurous spirits.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces gin
– 1/2 ounce Campari
– 1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
– 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (about 2 inches)
– 1 sprig of fresh thyme (about 2 inches)
– Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
2. Add the rosemary and thyme sprigs to the shaker and muddle gently to release their oils and flavors.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist, expressing its oils over the drink.

Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail, not a dish.

Chocolate Negroni with Dark Crème de Cacao

Chocolate Negroni with Dark Crème de Cacao
Elevate your classic Negroni cocktail with the addition of dark Crème de Cacao, creating a rich and decadent treat for chocolate lovers. This unique twist on the Italian classic combines bold flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 1/2 oz Dark Crème de Cacao
– Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir briefly to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Pour in the dark Crème de Cacao and stir gently to emulsify.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!

Sparkling Negroni with Champagne

Sparkling Negroni with Champagne
Combine the classic Italian Negroni cocktail with champagne for a sophisticated and bubbly twist.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces gin
– 1/2 ounce Campari
– 1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
– Splash of sparkling water
– 4-6 ounces champagne
– Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Shake gently to combine and chill the ingredients (about 10-15 seconds).
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or champagne flute.
5. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
6. Pour in 4-6 ounces of champagne.
7. Garnish with an orange twist.

Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!

Spiced Negroni with Cardamom and Clove

Spiced Negroni with Cardamom and Clove
Spiced Negroni with Cardamom and Clove: A Twist on the Classic Cocktail

Combine the bold flavors of a Negroni with the warm, aromatic spices of cardamom and clove for a unique and intriguing cocktail.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon whole cloves
– Orange twist or peel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
3. Add the ground cardamom and whole cloves to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or peel.

Cooking Time: None

Summary

Get ready to shake up your cocktail game with these 18 refreshing Negroni recipes! From classic twists like Orange Peel Garnish and Prosecco-infused Sbagliato, to whiskey-based Boulevardier and smoky Mezcal variations, there’s a recipe for every taste. Try adding some autumnal flair with Apple Cider and Cinnamon or go bold with Pineapple-Infused Tropical Negroni. For the adventurous, there are herbal infusions, coffee-infused delights, and even a chocolatey treat! Whether you like it classic or adventurous, these recipes will inspire you to create your perfect Negroni.

Leave a Comment