The Paper Plane Cocktail is a beautifully balanced, refreshing drink that combines bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice. With its gorgeous orange-pink color and irresistible combination of sweet, tart, and slightly bitter flavors, this modern classic cocktail is surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, enjoying happy hour, or looking for a sophisticated bourbon cocktail, the Paper Plane is a delicious choice that’s sure to impress!
Want another cocktail sure to please? Then try our Campari Spritz or our gorgeous French Martini.
The Paper Plane Cocktail was created in 2008 by bartender Sam Ross. Ross developed the drink for the opening menu at The Violet Hour cocktail bar in Chicago. The cocktail was named after the song Paper Planes by M.I.A., which was popular at the time.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Amazing flavors of sweet, tart and slightly bitter.
- Equal parts of the ingredients, so it is easy to remember.
- Sophisticated but so easy to make.
- Gorgeous orange-pink color.
- Perfectly pretty in a coupe glass.
Helpful Items for This Recipe
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Cocktail Shaker, 24oz Drink Shaker with Bartender Strainer, Measuring Jigger, Bar Mixing Spoon
Paper Plane Cocktail Ingredients
This Paper Plane Cocktail is a refreshing, bittersweet bourbon cocktail made with equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice. It’s an elegant, easy-to-make drink with a beautiful color and bright citrus flavor.
Recipe Ingredients
Bourbon – Bourbon is an American barrel-aged whiskey. Use what you have on hand, or buy something that isn’t too expensive.
Aperol – Aperol is a bright orange Italian aperitif known for its refreshing, bittersweet flavor. Made with a blend of herbs, roots, and citrus ingredients, Aperol has notes of sweet orange, rhubarb, and subtle herbal bitterness. It has an 11% alcohol content.
Amaro Nonino – Amaro Nonino is a premium Italian herbal liqueur known for its smooth, bittersweet flavor and complex blend of herbs, spices, and citrus. It has a beautiful amber color and a rich, aromatic flavor with notes of orange peel, herbs, caramel, vanilla, and warming spices.
Fresh-squeezed lemon juice – This adds tartness and freshness to the cocktail.
How to Make a Paper Plane Cocktail
Place the coupe glass in the freezer for 10 minutes to chill.
Fill a cocktail shaker 1/2 full with ice.
Add the Bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh-squeezed lemon juice.
Shake for 10 – 15 seconds until well chilled.
Pour in the chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a tiny paper plane or an orange twist.
Serve immediately.
Enjoy!
Recipe Pro Tips
Pro Tips for the Best Paper Plane Cocktail
Use fresh lemon juice. Freshly squeezed juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Measure carefully. The equal-parts ratio is essential to the cocktail’s balance.
Choose a good bourbon. A flavorful bourbon adds warmth and depth without overpowering the drink.
Use Amaro Nonino for authenticity. It’s a defining ingredient in the classic recipe.
Shake with ice. Shaking properly chills, dilutes, and combines the ingredients.
Chill your glass. A cold coupe keeps the cocktail refreshing longer. Making it cold adds to the enjoyment of the libation.
Don’t overshake. Approximately 10–15 seconds is usually enough to chill the drink.
Serve immediately. The Paper Plane is best enjoyed freshly shaken and cold.
How to Make a Tiny Paper Airplane
We used parchment paper with newsprint from Amazon; there are various kinds: 200 Pcs 15″ Newsprint Sandwich Wrapping Paper Wax Paper, White Black.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a Paper Plane without Amaro Nonino?
You can substitute another amaro, such as Amaro Montenegro, but the flavor will differ from the original.
Is a Paper Plane Cocktail shaken or stirred?
The Paper Plane is shaken with ice because it contains fresh lemon juice.
What glass should I use?
A chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass is ideal.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended for the best flavor and balance.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Yes. Multiply the four ingredients equally and shake portions with ice before serving.
Is the Paper Plane Cocktail a classic cocktail?
It’s considered a modern classic, having been created in 2008 rather than during the earlier golden ages of cocktail history.
MORE COCKTAILS FOR THE HOLIDAYS AND BEYOND!
We always serve a delicious cocktail when guests arrive. Here are some more of our favorites.
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Pin it HERE!!
Paper Plane Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4- ounce Bourbon
- 3/4- ounce Aperol
- 3/4- ounce Amaro Nonino
- 3/4- ounce Fresh-squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Place the coupe glass in the freezer for 10 minutes to chill.
- Fill a cocktail shaker 1/2 full with ice.
- Add the Bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh-squeezed lemon juice.
- Shake for 10 – 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Pour in the chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a tiny paper plane or an orange twist.
- Serve immediately.
- Enjoy Responsibly!
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