There’s nothing quite like the vibrant, bittersweet taste of Campari to elevate your summer sipping. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply unwinding on the patio, these refreshing recipes are sure to impress. From classic cocktails to creative twists, get ready to mix up some unforgettable drinks that scream summer fun!
Classic Negroni Cocktail
A timeless cocktail that’s as simple as it is sophisticated, the Classic Negroni balances bitter, sweet, and herbal notes with just three ingredients. Perfect for beginners, this recipe requires no special tools and delivers a bold, refreshing drink every time. Let’s walk through each step to craft this iconic beverage.
Ingredients
– 1 oz gin
– 1 oz Campari
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1 large ice cube
– 1 orange peel
Instructions
1. Fill a mixing glass with 1 large ice cube.
2. Pour 1 oz gin into the mixing glass.
3. Add 1 oz Campari to the mixing glass.
4. Measure and pour 1 oz sweet vermouth into the mixing glass.
5. Stir the mixture continuously for 30 seconds to properly chill and dilute the cocktail without over-diluting.
6. Strain the stirred mixture into a rocks glass pre-filled with 1 large ice cube to maintain optimal temperature.
7. Express the oils from 1 orange peel by holding it over the glass and twisting it skin-side down to release aromatic essence.
8. Garnish the drink by placing the twisted orange peel into the glass.
Refreshingly bitter with a smooth, herbal sweetness, this Negroni boasts a velvety texture from careful stirring. Serve it alongside salty snacks like olives or nuts to contrast its bold flavors, or try it with a grilled orange slice for a smoky twist.
Campari and Soda
Begin your journey into classic Italian aperitivo with this refreshing Campari and Soda. Building this iconic drink requires just two ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for beginners seeking a sophisticated yet simple cocktail. Follow these precise steps to craft a balanced, bubbly beverage that’s ideal for warm afternoons or pre-dinner sipping.
Ingredients
– 2 oz Campari
– 4 oz club soda
– 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Fill a highball glass with 1 cup of ice cubes to chill the glass and dilute the drink slightly for a smoother taste.
2. Pour 2 oz of Campari directly over the ice in the glass.
3. Slowly add 4 oz of club soda to the glass to preserve carbonation and prevent overflowing.
4. Gently stir the mixture 3-4 times with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing effervescence.
5. Serve immediately while the drink is cold and bubbly for the best flavor experience.
Glistening with a vibrant red hue and effervescent bubbles, this Campari and Soda offers a bold, bitter-sweet flavor profile that awakens the palate. Its crisp, refreshing texture makes it an excellent companion for salty snacks like olives or nuts, or simply enjoyed on its own as a light, invigoring treat.
Campari Spritz
Kick off your weekend relaxation with this classic Italian-inspired cocktail that balances bitter, sweet, and bubbly flavors perfectly. Known for its vibrant red hue and refreshing taste, the Campari Spritz is incredibly simple to make with just a few ingredients. Let’s walk through each step to ensure your drink turns out crisp and well-balanced every time.
Ingredients
– 2 ounces Campari
– 3 ounces prosecco
– 1 ounce club soda
– 1 orange slice
– 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Fill a wine glass or tumbler with 1 cup of ice cubes to chill the glass and keep the drink cold.
2. Pour 2 ounces of Campari directly over the ice in the glass.
3. Slowly add 3 ounces of prosecco to the glass to preserve its carbonation.
4. Gently top with 1 ounce of club soda, stirring lightly with a bar spoon to combine without losing fizz.
5. Garnish the rim of the glass with a fresh orange slice for a citrusy aroma and visual appeal.
6. Serve immediately while the drink is cold and effervescent.
Vibrant and effervescent, this cocktail offers a harmonious blend of bitter Campari, sweet prosecco, and crisp soda, with a smooth, bubbly texture that tingles on the palate. For a creative twist, try serving it with a skewer of blood orange slices or a sprig of rosemary to enhance its aromatic profile and presentation.
Negroni Sbagliato
Many classic cocktails have fascinating origin stories, and the Negroni Sbagliato is no exception—this ‘mistaken’ Negroni swaps gin for sparkling wine, creating a lighter, effervescent twist perfect for beginners to mix at home.
Ingredients
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1 oz Campari
– 3 oz prosecco
– 1 large ice cube
– 1 orange slice
Instructions
1. Fill a rocks glass with 1 large ice cube to chill the glass and slow dilution.
2. Pour 1 oz sweet vermouth into the glass over the ice.
3. Add 1 oz Campari to the glass.
4. Gently stir the mixture with a bar spoon for 10 seconds to combine the ingredients evenly.
5. Top with 3 oz prosecco, pouring slowly to preserve its bubbles.
6. Garnish with 1 orange slice placed on the rim of the glass.
7. Serve immediately to enjoy the cocktail at its freshest and most carbonated.
Gently effervescent and bittersweet, this cocktail offers a smooth, refreshing sip with a vibrant orange aroma; try serving it alongside salty snacks like olives or nuts to balance its bold flavors.
Campari Orange Juice
Crafting the perfect Campari Orange Juice requires precision and attention to detail, making it an ideal project for beginners looking to master a classic cocktail. This vibrant drink combines bitter and sweet flavors in perfect harmony, with each step designed to ensure consistent results every time. Follow these instructions carefully to create a refreshing beverage that’s both simple and sophisticated.
Ingredients
– 2 oz Campari
– 4 oz fresh orange juice
– 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Pour 2 oz of Campari into a highball glass.
2. Add 4 oz of fresh orange juice to the glass.
3. Place 1 cup of ice cubes into the glass.
4. Stir the mixture gently for 15 seconds using a long spoon to combine the ingredients without diluting them too quickly.
5. Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal balance of flavors before the ice melts significantly.
Glistening with a deep ruby hue, this cocktail offers a bold contrast between the bitter Campari and the sweet, citrusy orange juice, creating a refreshingly crisp texture. For a creative twist, garnish with a thin orange slice or serve it alongside a small plate of salty snacks to enhance the bitter-sweet interplay.
Jungle Bird Cocktail
Just as vibrant and tropical as its namesake, the Jungle Bird cocktail brings a taste of paradise to your glass with its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter notes. Let’s build this refreshing tiki classic together, step by step, so you can enjoy it like a pro.
Ingredients
– 2 oz dark rum
– 1.5 oz pineapple juice
– 0.75 oz Campari
– 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
– 0.5 oz simple syrup
– 1 cup ice cubes
– Pineapple wedge for garnish
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz dark rum into the shaker.
3. Add 1.5 oz pineapple juice to the shaker.
4. Measure and pour 0.75 oz Campari into the shaker.
5. Squeeze 0.5 oz fresh lime juice directly into the shaker, straining out any seeds.
6. Add 0.5 oz simple syrup to the mixture.
7. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well-chilled and frothy.
8. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
9. Garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge on the rim of the glass.
Keep this cocktail balanced by using fresh lime juice rather than bottled for a brighter acidity, and shake it hard to properly dilute and integrate the Campari’s bitterness. For the best flavor, serve it immediately after shaking to maintain its crisp, chilled texture. Known for its bold ruby hue and complex profile, this drink offers a silky mouthfeel with tropical fruit notes upfront and a pleasantly bitter finish—try serving it alongside grilled meats or as a standout at summer gatherings.
Campari and Tonic
Sometimes the simplest cocktails make the most refreshing sippers, and this Campari and Tonic is no exception. Start by gathering your ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Ingredients
– 2 oz Campari
– 4 oz tonic water
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 1 slice orange
Instructions
1. Fill a highball glass with 1 cup of ice cubes to chill the glass and keep the drink cold.
2. Pour 2 oz of Campari over the ice, allowing it to settle at the bottom for a layered effect.
3. Slowly add 4 oz of tonic water to the glass, pouring it down the side to minimize fizz loss and preserve carbonation.
4. Gently stir the mixture with a bar spoon for 10 seconds to combine the ingredients without over-agitating the tonic.
5. Garnish the drink with 1 slice of orange placed on the rim or floated on top for a citrusy aroma.
6. Serve immediately to enjoy the effervescence at its peak, using a straw if preferred.
This cocktail boasts a vibrant red hue with a bittersweet flavor profile that’s balanced by the tonic’s quinine notes. The effervescent texture makes it ideal for sipping on a warm afternoon, or try serving it with a sprig of rosemary for an herbal twist that complements the citrus garnish.
Campari Margarita
Bold and vibrant, the Campari Margarita combines the bitter complexity of Italian aperitivo with the classic refreshment of a margarita, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated twist on a beloved cocktail. By following these precise steps, even beginners can craft this stunning drink with confidence, ensuring a balanced and professional result every time.
Ingredients
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz Campari
– 1 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz agave syrup
– 1 cup ice
– 1 lime wedge
– 1 tbsp coarse salt
Instructions
1. Pour 1 tbsp coarse salt onto a small plate.
2. Rub the rim of a rocks glass with the lime wedge to moisten it evenly.
3. Dip the moistened rim of the glass into the salt, twisting gently to coat it completely, and set the glass aside.
4. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup ice.
5. Add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz Campari, 1 oz lime juice, and 1/2 oz agave syrup to the shaker.
6. Secure the lid tightly on the shaker to prevent leaks.
7. Shake the mixture vigorously for 15 seconds until well-chilled and frothy.
8. Fill the prepared rocks glass with fresh ice.
9. Strain the shaken cocktail into the glass over the ice.
10. Garnish with the used lime wedge on the rim.
Mixing bitter Campari with zesty lime and smooth tequila creates a layered flavor profile that is both tart and herbaceous, with a satisfying salty rim contrast. Serve it alongside spicy appetizers to complement its boldness, or experiment with a smoked salt rim for an added depth that enhances the drink’s aromatic qualities.
Boulevardier Cocktail
Ready to master a classic cocktail with rich, complex flavors? The Boulevardier combines whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari for a sophisticated sipper that’s perfect for cozy evenings. Let’s walk through each step methodically to ensure your drink turns out balanced and refreshing.
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1 oz Campari
– 1 large ice cube
– 1 orange twist
Instructions
1. Fill a mixing glass halfway with ice to chill the ingredients evenly without over-diluting.
2. Pour 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey into the mixing glass, using a jigger for precise measurement to maintain the cocktail’s balance.
3. Add 1 oz sweet vermouth to the mixing glass, ensuring it’s at room temperature for optimal flavor integration.
4. Measure and pour 1 oz Campari into the mixing glass, as its bitterness complements the sweetness of the vermouth.
5. Stir the mixture continuously for 30 seconds with a bar spoon to properly chill and dilute the cocktail without aerating it.
6. Place 1 large ice cube into a rocks glass to slow melting and keep the drink cold longer.
7. Strain the stirred mixture into the prepared rocks glass over the ice cube.
8. Express the oils from 1 orange twist over the drink by squeezing it gently above the glass, then rub it around the rim for aromatic enhancement.
9. Drop the orange twist into the cocktail as a garnish.
Crafted with care, this Boulevardier boasts a velvety texture and a harmonious blend of bitter, sweet, and herbal notes. Serve it alongside dark chocolate or as an aperitif to elevate any gathering with its bold, refined character.
Campari Gin Fizz
Venturing into the world of classic cocktails, the Campari Gin Fizz offers a refreshing balance of bitter and sweet with a lively effervescence that’s perfect for any occasion. This methodical guide will walk you through each step to craft this vibrant drink with confidence, ensuring a perfectly mixed result every time.
Ingredients
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz Campari
– 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
– 0.5 oz simple syrup
– 4 oz club soda
– 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz of gin into the shaker.
3. Add 1 oz of Campari to the shaker.
4. Measure and pour 0.75 oz of fresh lemon juice into the shaker.
5. Add 0.5 oz of simple syrup to the shaker.
6. Securely close the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients thoroughly.
7. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh ice, leaving space for the soda.
8. Slowly top the glass with 4 oz of club soda to preserve the carbonation.
9. Gently stir the drink with a bar spoon for 5 seconds to integrate the soda without losing fizz.
10. Optionally, garnish with a lemon wheel or twist for an aromatic finish.
Fizzing with a bright, ruby hue, this cocktail delivers a harmonious blend of bitter Campari, botanical gin, and zesty lemon, all lifted by the effervescent soda. Serve it in a chilled glass for maximum refreshment, or pair it with light appetizers to enhance its sophisticated yet approachable character.
Campari Mojito
Ready to elevate your classic mojito with a sophisticated twist? This Campari Mojito combines the refreshing mint and lime foundation with the bittersweet complexity of Campari, creating a perfectly balanced cocktail that’s both vibrant and elegant. Let’s build this drink step by step to ensure every layer shines through.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 8 fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup white rum
– 2 tablespoons Campari
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 1/4 cup club soda
Instructions
1. Place 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 8 fresh mint leaves in a sturdy highball glass.
2. Add 1/2 lime, cut into wedges, to the glass.
3. Using a muddler, gently press and twist the mint, lime, and sugar together for 15 seconds to release the oils and juices without tearing the mint leaves.
4. Pour 1/4 cup white rum and 2 tablespoons Campari into the glass.
5. Stir the mixture with a bar spoon for 10 seconds to dissolve the sugar completely.
6. Fill the glass with 1 cup ice cubes, packing them firmly to chill the drink quickly.
7. Top with 1/4 cup club soda, pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
8. Gently stir the cocktail 3-4 times to combine all ingredients without over-diluting.
9. Garnish with an additional mint sprig and a lime wheel on the rim for presentation.
Kick back and enjoy this cocktail’s effervescent texture and complex flavor profile, where the herbal mint and tart lime mingle with Campari’s bitter orange notes. Serve it in a chilled glass with a colorful straw for a festive touch, or pair it with light appetizers like citrus-marinated olives to enhance its Mediterranean vibes.
Americano Cocktail
While the Americano cocktail might sound fancy, it’s actually one of the simplest and most refreshing drinks you can make at home. With just three ingredients and no special equipment needed, this classic Italian aperitif is perfect for beginners looking to impress. We’ll walk through each step methodically to ensure your cocktail turns out perfectly balanced every time.
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz Campari
– 1.5 oz sweet vermouth
– 4 oz club soda
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 1 slice orange
Instructions
1. Fill a highball glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 1.5 oz of Campari directly over the ice in the glass.
3. Add 1.5 oz of sweet vermouth to the same glass.
4. Slowly top with 4 oz of club soda, pouring down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
5. Gently stir the mixture 10-12 times with a bar spoon to combine ingredients without over-diluting.
6. Garnish with 1 slice of orange placed on the rim of the glass.
Here’s what makes this cocktail special: the bold bitterness of Campari melds beautifully with the sweet vermouth’s herbal notes, creating a complex yet approachable flavor profile. The effervescent club soda lightens the drink while the orange garnish adds a bright citrus aroma that enhances every sip—perfect for serving over additional ice with some light appetizers.
Campari Sour
Venturing into the world of classic cocktails, the Campari Sour offers a perfect balance of bitter and sweet with a refreshing citrus twist, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned mixologists. This methodical guide will walk you through each step to craft this vibrant drink with confidence, ensuring a professional result every time. Let’s start by gathering our ingredients and tools for a seamless mixing experience.
Ingredients
– 2 oz Campari
– 1 oz fresh lemon juice
– 0.75 oz simple syrup
– 1 large egg white
– Ice cubes
Instructions
1. Chill a coupe glass by filling it with ice and water, then set it aside to prepare for serving.
2. Pour 2 oz Campari, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.75 oz simple syrup, and 1 large egg white into a cocktail shaker.
3. Secure the lid on the shaker and dry shake vigorously for 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white without ice, which helps create a frothy texture.
4. Open the shaker, add a handful of ice cubes, and reseal the lid tightly.
5. Shake the mixture vigorously for another 10–15 seconds until the shaker feels very cold to the touch, ensuring proper dilution and chilling.
6. Discard the ice and water from the chilled coupe glass.
7. Strain the cocktail into the prepared coupe glass using a Hawthorne strainer to hold back the ice, resulting in a smooth pour.
8. Let the drink sit for 30 seconds to allow the foam to settle and rise to the top for an appealing presentation.
9. Serve immediately with a citrus twist garnish if desired, avoiding overhandling to maintain the delicate foam.
Whisking together the bitter Campari and bright lemon juice yields a silky, frothy texture with a harmonious blend of tart and sweet notes. For a creative twist, try serving it alongside a small plate of salty snacks to contrast the cocktail’s complexity, or experiment with a rosemary sprig garnish for an aromatic enhancement that elevates the overall experience.
Campari Grapefruit Punch
Start by preparing this refreshing Campari Grapefruit Punch, a perfect balance of bitter and sweet that’s ideal for entertaining or a relaxing afternoon. Simply follow these methodical steps to create a vibrant, citrus-forward drink that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. Gather your ingredients and let’s begin with the basics to ensure a smooth, well-blended result.
Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice
– 1/2 cup Campari
– 1/4 cup simple syrup
– 2 cups club soda
– 1 grapefruit, sliced
– 1 lime, sliced
– Ice cubes
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of fresh grapefruit juice into a large pitcher.
2. Add 1/2 cup of Campari to the pitcher with the grapefruit juice.
3. Measure and pour 1/4 cup of simple syrup into the pitcher.
4. Stir the mixture in the pitcher vigorously for 30 seconds to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Tip: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice to avoid bitterness from store-bought versions.
6. Gently add 2 cups of club soda to the pitcher to preserve its carbonation.
7. Stir the mixture lightly for 10 seconds to incorporate the club soda without over-mixing.
8. Slice 1 grapefruit into thin rounds, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
9. Slice 1 lime into thin rounds, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
10. Add the sliced grapefruit and lime to the pitcher.
11. Tip: Chill all ingredients in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour beforehand to keep the punch cold without diluting it with too much ice.
12. Fill serving glasses with ice cubes, using about 1/2 cup per glass.
13. Pour the punch from the pitcher into the ice-filled glasses, dividing it evenly.
14. Tip: Garnish each glass with an extra slice of grapefruit or lime for a visually appealing presentation.
15. Serve the punch immediately to enjoy its fassy carbonation and fresh citrus notes.
Gently effervescent and brilliantly hued, this punch boasts a tangy grapefruit base softened by the herbal bitterness of Campari and a hint of sweetness. The thin citrus slices not only add a decorative touch but also infuse each sip with fresh, zesty aromas, making it perfect for serving in tall glasses with plenty of ice for a crowd-pleasing beverage.
Campari Apple Cider
Gathering around a warm drink is one of autumn’s simplest pleasures, and this Campari Apple Cider combines seasonal flavors with a sophisticated twist. It’s perfect for both cozy evenings and festive gatherings, offering a balance of sweet, bitter, and aromatic notes that will elevate your fall beverage repertoire. Let’s walk through how to make it step by step, ensuring a smooth and delightful result every time.
Ingredients
– 4 cups apple cider
– 1/2 cup Campari
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
1. Pour 4 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan.
2. Add 2 cinnamon sticks and the sliced orange to the saucepan.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, which should take about 5-7 minutes; avoid boiling to preserve the flavors.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1/4 cup of honey until fully dissolved, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Simmer the mixture on low heat for 10 minutes to allow the spices to infuse, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes to prevent the Campari from evaporating too quickly.
7. Stir in 1/2 cup of Campari until well combined.
8. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher or serving cups to remove the solids.
9. Serve the Campari Apple Cider warm in mugs or heatproof glasses.
You’ll love the velvety texture and the harmonious blend of sweet apple, bitter Campari, and warm spices that make each sip comforting and invigorating. For a creative twist, try garnishing with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick stirrer, or even chill it slightly for a refreshing cold version that still captures the essence of fall.
Conclusion
Zesty and vibrant, these Campari recipes are perfect for summer sipping. We hope you find new favorites to enjoy with friends and family. Try them out, leave a comment with your top picks, and share this roundup on Pinterest to spread the summer cheer!
I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.
