When it comes to classic and creative cocktails, few ingredients are as iconic and versatile as Campari. This Italian bitter liqueur has been a staple of bars and home mixologists alike for generations, and its distinctive flavor profile makes it a perfect addition to a wide range of drinks. From timeless classics like the Negroni to modern twists on timeless favorites, Campari is an ingredient that can elevate any cocktail menu.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 19 refreshing Campari drink recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re looking for a classic Spritz or something more adventurous like a Campari-infused Sangria, we’ve got you covered. So grab your shaker and let’s dive in!
Campari Spritz with Prosecco and Soda
Elevate your summer sipping game with this refreshing twist on the classic Campari Spritz. This fizzy fusion combines the bitter notes of Campari with the crispness of Prosecco and a splash of soda for a truly revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Campari
– 4 oz Prosecco
– 1 oz soda water
– Slice of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Campari and Prosecco.
3. Top with soda water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with an orange slice.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve immediately.
Negroni Classic Cocktail with Gin and Vermouth
A timeless and elegant cocktail, the Negroni is a masterclass in simplicity. This recipe combines the bold flavors of gin, sweet vermouth, and bitter Campari for a drink that’s both refreshing and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) Gin
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) Sweet Vermouth
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) Campari
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari over the ice.
3. Stir gently for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink, then use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None!
Campari Orange Juice Sunrise
Start your day with a vibrant and refreshing twist on the classic sunrise cocktail. This Campari-infused drink combines the tanginess of orange juice with the subtle bitterness of the Italian bitter liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Campari
– 4 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz grenadine syrup (optional)
– Ice cubes
– Orange slice or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the Campari and orange juice.
3. Add a splash of grenadine syrup, if desired, for a subtle sweetness.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with an orange slice or wheel.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Boulevardier with Bourbon and Sweet Vermouth
The Boulevardier is a lesser-known cousin of the Old Fashioned, with a rich and complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress. This recipe adds a touch of sweetness from sweet vermouth, perfectly balancing the bold flavors of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (this is a cocktail, after all!)
Campari Grapefruit Paloma
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Campari with the tanginess of grapefruit, creating a unique and revitalizing take on the classic Paloma cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 3 oz club soda
– Salt for rimming glass (optional)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, Campari, and lime juice to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Top with club soda.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None needed! This is a cocktail recipe.
Americano Cocktail with Sweet Vermouth and Soda
A twist on the classic Americano cocktail, this recipe adds a touch of sweetness with vermouth and fizziness from soda. Perfect for those who like their drinks a little bitter-sweet.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 3-4 oz Soda water
– Ice cubes
– Lemon twist or orange slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the whiskey and sweet vermouth.
3. Top with soda water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or orange slice.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and serve.
Enjoy your Bitter-Sweet Americano!
Campari Mojito with Fresh Mint and Lime
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito, featuring the bold flavors of Campari.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Campari
– 1 oz white rum
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Handful of ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add Campari, rum, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Campari Margarita with Tequila and Lime
Elevate your margarita game by adding the bold, bitter flavor of Campari to this tequila-based cocktail. This unique twist is perfect for adventurous drinkers looking to spice up their happy hour.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz agave syrup (or simple syrup)
– Salt, for rimming glass
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add tequila, lime juice, Campari, and agave syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel or twist.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Campari Gin Fizz with Egg White
This classic cocktail gets a silky boost from the addition of egg white, creating a rich and velvety texture. The bitterness of Campari is balanced by the sweetness of the simple syrup and the fizziness of soda water.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 egg white
– Club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, Campari, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add the egg white and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Campari Pineapple Punch
This fruity and bubbly punch is perfect for warm weather gatherings or any occasion where you want to serve a crowd-pleasing drink. With the bold flavor of Campari, sweet pineapple juice, and a hint of citrus, this refreshing cocktail is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/2 cup Campari
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Slice of pineapple for garnish (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher or jug with ice.
2. Pour in the pineapple juice, Campari, and lime juice.
3. Top with sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice in glasses and garnish with a slice of pineapple, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Campari and Tonic with a Citrus Twist
Elevate the classic Campari and Tonic cocktail by adding a burst of citrus flavor. This refreshing twist is perfect for warm evenings or as a pick-me-up anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Campari
– 4 oz tonic water
– Juice of 1 orange (about 1 tablespoon)
– Slice of orange, for garnish
– Sprig of rosemary, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Campari and top with tonic water.
3. Add the freshly squeezed orange juice.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with an orange slice and a sprig of rosemary, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Campari Sour with Lemon and Simple Syrup
This twist on the classic Campari Sour adds a bright and citrusy touch from lemon juice and simple syrup, balancing out the bitter flavors of the Campari. Perfect for warm weather or as a refreshing cocktail any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Campari
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Campari, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Campari Sangria with Red Wine and Fresh Fruit
Elevate your sangria game with this refreshing twist, combining the bold flavors of Campari with sweet red wine and fresh fruit. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/2 cup Campari
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 apple, sliced
– 1 pear, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine red wine and Campari.
2. Add sliced fruit (orange, apple, pear, and lemon) to the pitcher.
3. Sprinkle sugar over the fruit.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None (serve immediately or chill up to several hours)
Campari Bellini with Peach Puree and Sparkling Wine
Combine the bold flavors of Campari with the sweetness of peaches and the effervescence of sparkling wine for a refreshing twist on the classic Bellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peach puree
– 1/2 cup Campari
– 1 bottle Prosecco or other sparkling wine
– Slice of peach, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in 1-2 tablespoons of peach puree.
3. Add 1-2 ounces of Campari.
4. Top with 2-3 ounces of Prosecco.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a slice of peach.
Cooking Time:
– None! Simply assemble and serve.
Campari Espresso Martini
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique blend of bitter and sweet, featuring Campari’s signature flavor profile. Perfect for those who crave a sophisticated drink that packs a punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa
– 1/2 oz freshly brewed espresso
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Campari, Kahlúa, espresso, vodka, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with coffee beans or grinds.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Campari Coconut Cooler with Coconut Water
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on a classic cocktail! This Campari Coconut Cooler combines the bitter sweetness of Campari with the creamy richness of coconut water and a splash of lime.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Campari
– 4 oz coconut water
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Campari and coconut water.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just minutes.
Campari Ginger Beer Mule
Elevate your Moscow Mule game with this refreshing twist that combines the bold flavors of Campari and ginger beer. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Campari
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Sprig of mint, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add Campari and stir to combine.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
4. Squeeze in the lime juice and drop the wheel into the drink.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve immediately.
Campari Berry Smash with Fresh Berries
Elevate your summer cocktails with this refreshing twist on the classic spritz. Campari’s bitter notes are perfectly balanced by sweet fresh berries and a splash of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Campari
– 1 oz gin
– 1 oz lemon juice
– 4 oz sparkling water
– Fresh mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Lemon wheel and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Muddle fresh berries in a cocktail shaker to release their natural sweetness.
2. Add Campari, gin, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a wine glass filled with ice.
5. Top with sparkling water and garnish with a lemon wheel and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and enjoy!
Campari Limoncello Spritz
This spritz combines the bitter sweetness of Campari with the bright, citrusy flavor of limoncello, perfect for warm weather or any occasion where a refreshing drink is needed.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz limoncello
– 3 oz Prosecco
– Slice of lemon, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Campari and limoncello.
3. Top with Prosecco.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of lemon.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a drink!
Summary
Campari, the iconic Italian bitter liqueur, takes center stage in this collection of 19 refreshing drink recipes. From classic cocktails to creative twists, these Campari-infused drinks are sure to quench your thirst. Enjoy a Spritz with Prosecco and Soda, or try a Negroni Classic Cocktail with Gin and Vermouth. Or why not try something new like the Campari Orange Juice Sunrise or the Boulevardier with Bourbon and Sweet Vermouth? Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, sour, or fizzy, there’s a Campari drink here to suit your taste.
