Paper Plane Recipe: Ever heard of a cocktail that’s as fun as its name sounds? That’s exactly what the Paper Plane cocktail delivers—a quirky name, a sleek flavor profile, and a cool backstory. This drink may sound playful, but it packs some serious sophistication. Created in 2007 by renowned bartender Sam Ross, the Paper Plane was born at The Violet Hour in Chicago and soon found fame across the U.S. and beyond.
Inspired by M.I.A.’s hit track “Paper Planes,” the drink’s name instantly grabs attention, and once you sip it, the flavor holds it. Ross built this cocktail with a perfect quartet of equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice. This mix brings together the warm depth of bourbon, the bright bitterness of Aperol, the herbaceous complexity of Amaro, and the zesty zing of lemon. Sounds balanced? That’s because it is.
Unlike old-school cocktails with centuries of heritage, the Paper Plane is a modern classic that’s only a little over a decade old. But its impact? Huge. It’s become a bar menu staple and a go-to for those who like their cocktails bitter, bold, and beautifully blended.
Popularity and Signature Style
What sets the Paper Plane apart is how effortlessly it walks the line between approachable and complex. Whether you’re new to cocktails or a seasoned drink enthusiast, this one hits right. Its sleek, reddish-orange color is eye-catching, and its flavor lands somewhere between a Negroni and a whiskey sour.
It’s especially popular among those who love spirit-forward cocktails but don’t want to be overpowered. The equal-parts recipe also makes it super easy to memorize and replicate—no advanced mixology degree required. Plus, it feels fancy, even if you’re just shaking it up in your kitchen at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Spirits and Their Roles
To make the perfect Paper Plane, you need four ingredients. And yes, they all matter—so let’s break them down:
- Bourbon Whiskey (¾ oz) – This is the backbone. It brings warmth, body, and that signature sweet oak finish that only bourbon can provide. Use something middle-shelf; no need to splurge, but don’t go bargain-bin either.
- Aperol (¾ oz) – This vibrant orange liqueur gives the cocktail its distinct citrusy bitterness and vibrant color. It’s lighter than Campari and blends smoothly into the mix.
- Amaro Nonino (¾ oz) – This is where the Paper Plane gets its soul. Amaro Nonino adds herbal, floral, and slightly nutty undertones. If you can’t find Nonino, a close substitute might be Montenegro, but it won’t be quite the same.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (¾ oz) – Fresh is key. Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness and acidity that this drink needs to pop. Always squeeze your lemons right before making the drink.
This combo creates a drink that’s bold yet balanced, bitter yet refreshing, and surprisingly smooth.
Garnish Options
The original Paper Plane doesn’t call for a garnish, but if you’re feeling a little extra, here are a few great options:
- Lemon Twist – Adds a bit of aroma and visual appeal.
- Dehydrated Citrus Wheel – Fancy and classy.
- Edible Flower – Aesthetically pleasing for parties or Instagram moments.
Just remember: garnish isn’t mandatory, but it can elevate the overall vibe, especially when you’re serving guests or trying to impress.
Tools Required for Mixing
Cocktail Shaker and Strainer
You don’t need a full bar setup, but a few tools make all the difference when you’re aiming for pro-level results at home.
- Cocktail Shaker – A Boston shaker or cobbler shaker will work. You’ll need it to chill, mix, and slightly dilute your drink.
- Hawthorne Strainer – This helps separate the liquid from the ice when pouring into your glass. If you’re using a cobbler shaker, the built-in strainer might do the trick.
Shaking is non-negotiable here. It blends the lemon juice with the liqueurs and ensures a cold, crisp sip.
Measuring Tools and Glassware
- Jigger or Measuring Glass – This helps maintain the balance. You’re using equal parts of everything, so precision matters.
- Coupe or Nick and Nora Glass – The traditional serving glass for a Paper Plane. It makes your drink look elegant and keeps it chilled longer thanks to the smaller surface area.
A properly shaken and strained Paper Plane into a chilled glass is a joy to behold—and drink.
Step-by-Step Paper Plane Cocktail Recipe
Step 1: Measure Your Ingredients
First things first: grab your jigger and start measuring. Precision is your friend here.
- ¾ oz Bourbon
- ¾ oz Aperol
- ¾ oz Amaro Nonino
- ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
Pour each ingredient into the cocktail shaker. It helps to use a jigger with two sides (¾ oz and 1 oz) so you can pour without second-guessing.
Make sure you’ve squeezed your lemon juice fresh. Bottled stuff just won’t cut it—it’s too flat and often too acidic.
Add all ingredients into your shaker. Don’t add ice yet—measure everything out first so you’re not rushing once the ice starts diluting things.
Step 2: Shake It Right
Now that your ingredients are in the shaker, add a generous scoop of ice. Fill it about three-quarters full. Seal the shaker tightly.
Time to shake—vigorously! Shake for about 12–15 seconds. You’re aiming for a good chill and just a bit of dilution to mellow the strong flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when the outside of the shaker gets frosty and cold to the touch.
This step blends the ingredients into one smooth, harmonious mixture. Don’t under-shake or you’ll get a flat-tasting drink. Over-shake and you might dilute it too much. Find that sweet spot.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
Once your cocktail shaker feels icy cold, it’s go time. Remove the top and place a strainer over the shaker. Pour the mix gently into a chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass. The result? A smooth, glowing, reddish-orange drink that looks just as classy as it tastes.
No ice goes into the final glass—this is a “served up” cocktail. You want it smooth and sippable, not watered down. The shake already handled the chilling and dilution for you.
If you’ve decided to use a garnish, now’s the time. A twist of lemon over the top adds a delightful burst of citrus aroma. You can even run the twist around the rim of the glass for that extra touch of zesty goodness.
Now admire your work. This is the kind of drink that feels like it belongs in a high-end cocktail bar, yet you made it right at home. Sip slowly and enjoy how the flavors unfold.
Tips for the Perfect Paper Plane
Choosing Quality Ingredients
When your cocktail only has four ingredients, each one pulls serious weight. That’s why ingredient quality matters—a lot.
- Bourbon – Aim for something smooth, with caramel and vanilla notes. Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, or Woodford Reserve are all excellent choices that won’t break the bank.
- Aperol – Stick to the original. It has that unmistakable balance of sweetness and bitterness. Don’t try to swap in Campari unless you’re intentionally going for a bolder, more bitter variation.
- Amaro Nonino – Yes, it’s a bit pricier and sometimes hard to find, but it’s what makes the Paper Plane sing. That blend of herbal, citrus, and floral flavors is irreplaceable.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – This one’s easy: squeeze it fresh. Always.
The Paper Plane is a game of balance, and skimping on any one ingredient can throw it all off. Think of it like a symphony—each element needs to play its part perfectly for the whole to shine.
Balancing Sweetness and Bitterness
The magic of the Paper Plane lies in its perfect harmony of bitter, sweet, tart, and strong. But everyone’s palate is different. Want to tweak it to suit your taste? Go for it.
- Too bitter? Add a touch more lemon juice or use a slightly sweeter bourbon.
- Too sweet? A splash more lemon or a slightly bolder bourbon can help.
- Need more punch? Use a higher-proof bourbon, or try experimenting with a slightly different amaro like Montenegro or Averna.
Cocktails are meant to be personal, and once you understand the structure of this drink, you can tweak it to fit your preferences without losing the spirit of the original.
Variations of the Paper Plane
Creative Twists on a Modern Classic
The original Paper Plane recipe is a masterpiece on its own, but what’s a great cocktail without a few riffs? Once you’ve mastered the classic, there’s a whole world of creative versions waiting to be explored. Here are some fun and flavorful variations:
- The “Dark Plane” – Swap out the bourbon for a smoky Scotch whisky. It gives the drink a deeper, earthier profile. Ideal for whisky lovers who want a touch of drama.
- Tropical Plane – Add a splash of pineapple juice or substitute lemon juice with lime for a tropical vibe. This version works great for summer patio sipping.
- The Spicy Paper Plane – Infuse your bourbon with a few chili flakes or a slice of jalapeño for a spicy twist. It adds a warm kick without overpowering the original balance.
- Non-Alcoholic Paper Plane – Go zero-proof by using non-alcoholic substitutes like Lyre’s American Malt, Lyre’s Italian Orange, and a non-alcoholic amaro. Use lemon juice as is. Shake it up, and you’ve got a mocktail that still hits the flavor notes of the real thing.
Seasonal Adjustments
The Paper Plane is a year-round cocktail, but you can easily adjust it for the seasons. During the colder months, try using a spiced bourbon or adding a cinnamon stick as a garnish. In spring and summer, use fresh herbs like basil or mint as a garnish to keep things bright and aromatic.
Serving Suggestions and Occasions
When to Serve the Paper Plane
The Paper Plane is incredibly versatile. It fits into almost any setting:
- Dinner Parties – It’s classy, balanced, and makes a strong first impression.
- Pre-Dinner Aperitif – Thanks to its bitter and citrusy notes, it works well to wake up your palate before a meal.
- Cocktail Night with Friends – Its equal-parts simplicity makes it easy to batch and serve multiple rounds without stress.
- Solo Wind-Down Drink – It’s great for relaxing after a long day—strong enough to help you unwind, but smooth enough to savor.
Food Pairings
Wondering what to serve with a Paper Plane? Try pairing it with:
- Charcuterie Boards – The cocktail’s bitterness cuts through fatty meats and rich cheeses.
- Spicy Dishes – It complements heat beautifully, especially Thai or Mexican cuisine.
- Citrusy or Herb-Infused Dishes – Grilled chicken with lemon, or salmon with dill are perfect matches.
Its versatility makes the Paper Plane one of those drinks that doesn’t need a reason—it is the reason.
Why the Paper Plane Has Cult Status
Simplicity Meets Sophistication
Let’s be real: the best cocktails are often the simplest. The Paper Plane is a shining example of how a few high-quality ingredients, combined with a little technique, can yield an incredibly nuanced and satisfying drink.
It doesn’t need muddling, layering, or obscure ingredients. Just a good shake and a perfect pour. That’s what makes it a bartender’s favorite and a home mixologist’s dream.
A Staple in Cocktail Culture
Since its debut in the early 2000s, the Paper Plane has become a modern classic. It now sits alongside legends like the Negroni and the Old Fashioned. And unlike some cocktails that take years to grow on people, this one delivers instant charm.
Its aesthetic, balance, and backstory make it memorable. You don’t just drink a Paper Plane—you experience it.
FAQs about Paper Plane Recipe
What is a Paper Plane cocktail?
The Paper Plane cocktail is a modern classic with a perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and sour. Created by bartender Sam Ross, it’s a straightforward yet sophisticated blend of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice.
How do you make a Paper Plane cocktail?
To whip up a Paper Plane, you’ll need equal parts (about ¾ ounce each) of bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice. Simply combine all the ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake well until chilled, and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a cherry or a twist of orange peel for an extra touch of elegance.
Can I substitute any ingredients in a Paper Plane cocktail?
While the original recipe is recommended for the best balance, you can experiment with substitutions. If Amaro Nonino isn’t available, try another amaro with a similar flavor profile. For a less alcoholic version, replace Aperol with a non-alcoholic bitter.
Is the Paper Plane cocktail suitable for all occasions?
Absolutely! Its appealing look and refreshing taste make it perfect for everything from a casual get-together to a formal event. Its unique combination of ingredients is sure to impress cocktail enthusiasts and newbies alike.
What food pairs well with a Paper Plane cocktail?
The cocktail’s citrusy and herbal notes pair wonderfully with light appetizers, seafood dishes, and poultry. It also complements spicy foods, balancing the heat with its sweet and sour components.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—the Paper Plane cocktail from start to finish. Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or a curious newbie, this drink offers everything you want: flavor, flair, and a fantastic story to go with it. The best part? You can shake one up in under five minutes and look like a pro while doing it.
Next time you’re in the mood for something classy but effortless, bittersweet but balanced, reach for the bourbon and send a Paper Plane flying into your glass. Cheers to your new favorite cocktail!
