Fitness / July 6, 2023

How to Make a Paper Plane Cocktail

You’ve got to try the Paper Plane cocktail — think bourbon meets bittersweet Aperol and the intriguing Amaro Nonino, all in one fabulous drink. This modern classic is more than just a pretty face; it’s a flavor adventure.

Paper plane cocktail side shot 2 glasses

Table of Contents

A drink that brings together the boldness of bourbon, the bittersweet charm of Aperol, and that mysterious allure of Amaro Nonino. Yup, that’s a Paper Plane! It’s been wowing people since it was whipped up by bartender Sam Ross in 2007. Get ready to be whisked away on a flavor journey with this modern classic with just one sip. And don’t even get me started on how it looks with that cute little lemon twist garnish.

Think of the Paper Plane as the fashionable cousin to the Aperol Spritz and the Negroni, which also have Aperol in them. The Paper Plane stands out from the crowd with its chic combo of bourbon and Amaro Nonino – a dream team that will make even the pickiest of cocktail lovers want more.

With just the right balance of sweet and sour, this drink is the perfect choice when you wanna shake things up a bit from the usual suspects.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

If you’re a bourbon drinker but want something with a bit more zest, look no further.
It’s got a wonderful balance of flavors. The bourbon is rich and robust, the Aperol adds a slight bitterness, while the Amaro Nonino brings a sweetness.
Speaking of which, when was the last time you used Amaro Nonino? Have you EVER used it in a cocktail? If not, here’s your chance. It’s an Italian herbal liqueur with a bittersweet taste with notes of orange peel, gentian root, and other aromatic herbs.

INGREDIENTS

3/4 oz. bourbon
3/4 oz. Aperol
3/4 oz. Amaro Nonino
3/4 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice
lemon twist, for garnish
ice

Utensils Needed

A coupe or martini glass – to serve the drink in style
A cocktail shaker – for mixing the ingredients together
A jigger – to make sure you’re using the right amount of each ingredient
A strainer (if not built in the shaker) – to pour the mixture from the shaker into the glass
A knife – to cut or peel the lemon twist

INSTRUCTIONS

Add

In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Shake

Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. Strain the mixture from the shaker into a chilled coupe or martini glass.

Garnish

Garnish your Paper Plane cocktail with a lemon twist. Twist the peel over the drink, then drop it into the glass.

Tips and Tricks

Choose high quality ingredients: Go for a nice bourbon, a juicy lemon, and the real deal when it comes to Aperol and Amaro Nonino.

Chill your glass: Give your coupe or martini glass a little time-out in the freezer. I usually leave it for one hour.

Shake well: to blend ingredients and it may make the drink a little frothy.

Double strain: Just pour it through a fine-mesh strainer as you fill your glass to catch the small ice bits.

Master the lemon twist: Give a little squeeze above the glass. Then, give the rim a rub with the twist before you drop it in.

Variations

Low-Carb Paper Plane: Swap the Aperol for a splash of sugar-free orange liqueur.

Rye Plane: Give rye a go instead of bourbon. Rye is stronger and combines very well with the other ingredients.

Tequila Flight: Swap the bourbon for some reposado tequila.

Grapefruit Gust: Use fresh grapefruit juice instead of lemon juice.

Ringmaster: add a dash of elderflower liqueur, like St. Germain, to get a floral Paper Plane.

Serving Suggestions

When serving up these Paper Plane cocktails, why not put out these appetizers while you’re at it?

California Roll Sushi Bites: Creamy Greek yogurt, avocado, and crab meat are combined then put atop a cucumber. It tastes great and is only 40 calories.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: Got an air fryer? Then this recipe for sweet potato fries is a cinch — and it’s easy to share!

Ranch Oyster Crackers: Eat them by the handful, these oyster crackers are a vegan snack with a hint of ranch.

FAQs

How many calories are in a Paper Plane cocktail?

A typical Paper Plane cocktail has 150-170 calories per glass, but this could change a bit depending on the specific ingredients. Just remember, like any cocktail, moderation is key.

How should I drink a Paper Plane cocktail?

Sip it slowly from a chilled coupe or martini glass. You need to enjoy those amazing flavors and savor the lovely lemon twist aroma.

Can I substitute other types of amaro in the Paper Plane recipe?

If you can’t get your hands on Amaro Nonino (which makes a Paper Plane the real deal), don’t worry – you can sub in another similar amaro like Amaro Montenegro or Amaro Ciociaro.

Is the Paper Plane cocktail suitable for people with specific dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians or vegans?

The Paper Plane is totally plant-based.

How to Store a paper plane cocktail

To make a Paper Plane ahead of time, mix the bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice in a container you can seal. Pop it in the fridge for up to a day before you plan to serve it.

Make sure to give a little shake with ice before serving.