Aperol Grapefruit Citrus Jelly Shots

Turn the classic Aperol spritz into a fun, wobbly dessert with these citrusy jellies topped with a cloud of cream.

This recipe takes the beloved Aperol spritz and turns it into a playful jelly dessert. The bitterness of the Aperol pairs beautifully with the tangy grapefruit and sweet orange, creating a refreshing treat that's perfect for summer parties or a light after-dinner indulgence.

The jellies are surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience while they set in the fridge. The creamy topping adds a lovely contrast to the bright, citrusy jelly, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

Ingredients

Servings 6

Converted amounts are rounded.

Method

  1. Soak the gelatine leaves in cold water for 5 minutes, until they soften.
  2. Grate a little zest from one of each citrus fruit (grapefruit, lemon, orange) into a bowl and set aside.
  3. Cut the zested fruits in half and squeeze their juice into a saucepan. Add 100ml of water, the Aperol, sugar, and the soaked gelatine. Heat gently, stirring, until the gelatine and sugar have dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool.
  4. Peel the remaining grapefruits with a sharp knife, remove the segments, and add them to the jelly mixture.
  5. Pour the mixture into 6 to 8 clean glasses or trifle bowls. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, until set.
  6. In a separate bowl, pour the cream over the citrus zest, add the icing sugar, and beat until soft peaks form. Spoon the cream on top of the set jellies.

💡 Tips

  • For a non-alcoholic version, replace the Aperol with a splash of orange juice and a few drops of bitters.
  • Make sure the jelly mixture is cool before pouring into glasses to avoid cracking the glass.
  • If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, add a little more zest to the cream topping.

Inspired by a recipe from Jamie Oliver

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