Looking for a refreshing summer cocktail with Bourbon? This Grilled Peach Paper Plane cocktail is a fruity twist on a modern classic. Made with Bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and a splash of fresh lemon juice, this version gets a seasonal upgrade with grilled peach puree. It’s smoky, sweet, citrusy, and perfect for summer entertaining, happy hour, or your next cocktail night.
What’s a Paper Plane?
The Paper Plane is a modern classic cocktail, created in 2008 by bartender Sam Ross. It’s a riff on a Bourbon Sour, known for its beautifully balanced flavor profile—sweet bourbon, bitter Amaro Nonino and Aperol, and a bright splash of lemon juice.
Now, I’ll be honest—as someone who doesn’t usually love Aperol, this cocktail truly surprised me. The flavors come together so smoothly. And when I added grilled peaches? It took things to another level. Smoky, sweet, and citrusy—this is the perfect late-summer sip.
Do I have to grill the peaches?
You don’t have to.. however.. the the caramelized sugars from the grilled peaches add a richness and depth of flavor that is truly unmatched.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Peach Paper Plane
- Perfect summer cocktail – It’s refreshing with bright citrus and smoky peach flavor.
- Simple ingredients – Just 5 ingredients and easy to batch for a group.
- Great use for fresh peaches – A fun way to use seasonal stone fruit.
- Balanced flavor – Sweet, bitter, and tangy in every sip.
- Impressive for guests – A unique cocktail that feels elevated.
Ingredients for Grilled Peach Paper Plane?
Here’s what you’ll need for this Grilled Peach Paper Plane:
- Bourbon
- Aperol
- Amaro Nonino
- Fresh Lemon juice
- Grilled Peach Puree
What to pair this Grilled Peach Paper Plane with?
With its smoky sweetness, citrusy tang, and bitter finish, the Grilled Peach Paper Plane pairs beautifully with bold, flavorful dishes. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:
- Air fried Hennessy Wings
- The BEST Cheesy Smashburger
- Ultimate Steak Caesar Sandwich Recipe
- Jerk Lamb Loin Chop Recipe
- Crispy Air Fried Honey Sriracha Wings
- Easy Spicy Shrimp Hand Rolls
Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this cocktail makes any meal feel like a celebration
More summer cocktails to enjoy
- Classic Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri Recipe
- Spring Cocktails: Grilled Pineapple Miso Margarita
- Refreshing Frozen Watermelon Margarita Recipe
If you try this Grilled Peach Paper Plane, I’d love to hear your feedback. Please be sure to leave a comment, and/or tag me on Instagram @cookwithci. I would love to see your recreations and hear your thoughts.
Grilled Peach Paper Plane
Equipment
- cocktail shaker
- cast iron skillet or grill pan or grill
Ingredients
For the cocktail
- 1 oz grilled peach puree
- 3/4 oz Bourbon
- 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
- 3/4 oz Aperol
- 3/4 oz lemon juice + lemon twist for garnish
Instructions
- slice peaches in half i used 2. Then add to a hot cast iron skillet. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side or until the peaches have caramelized and it has noticable grill marks.
- Add the peaches to a blender and blend until smooth. Add water if needed for a looser consistency.
- For the cocktail- add glass to the fridge to chill.
- In a cocktail shaker add peach puree and equal parts Bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice. Add in ice and shake vigorously. strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a lemon twist. Enjoy!
Did you make it?
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