Tequila Sunrise Cocktail
This classic Tequila Sunrise cocktail layers freshly squeezed orange juice, tequila, and grenadine for a stunning summer drink.
The Tequila Sunrise is a classic cocktail that’s just as pretty as it is refreshing. With its vibrant layers of orange and red, it’s an eye-catching drink that’s incredibly easy to make at home. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients – just tequila, orange juice, and grenadine.
This cocktail gets its name from the way the grenadine slowly settles at the bottom of the glass, creating a beautiful gradient that mimics a sunrise. It’s sweet, citrusy, and smooth, with a hint of tartness from the orange juice and just enough tequila to keep things interesting.
Perfect for summer brunches, casual gatherings, or relaxing on the patio, the Tequila Sunrise is a crowd-pleaser that always makes a statement. Whether you’re new to mixing drinks or a seasoned home bartender, this one is a must-have in your cocktail rotation.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Tequila Sunrise
- Layer carefully: To get the signature sunrise effect, pour the grenadine slowly down the side of the glass or over the back of a spoon. It will sink and then gradually rise for that iconic gradient.
- Don’t stir after adding grenadine: Stirring will blend the colours together. Serve it layered and let your guests stir if they prefer.
- Chill your glass first: Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before assembling the drink. This helps keep the ice from melting too quickly and diluting the layers.
- Don’t forget to drink responsibly!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Tequila: Blanco (silver) tequila is the traditional choice for a Tequila Sunrise, thanks to its clean, crisp flavour. You can also use reposado tequila for a slightly richer, oaky note, though it will darken the colour of the drink.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice really makes a difference in flavour and brightness. If using bottled juice, choose one without added sugar or pulp for the cleanest appearance.
- Grenadine: This sweet, pomegranate-flavoured syrup creates the signature “sunrise” effect. You can use store-bought grenadine or make your own by simmering equal parts pomegranate juice and sugar.
- Ice: Crushed or cubed ice both work, though cubed ice tends to help the layers remain more distinct.
- Garnish: Orange slices and maraschino cherries add a classic touch. Blood orange slices or even a twist of orange peel can work as well for a fancier look.
Looking for More Summer Cocktails?
Check out more of my favourite summer cocktail recipes!
Cool down with a vibrant frozen blue margarita, blended to slushy perfection with a twist of Angostura bitters and a citrusy garnish.
Our Blue Hawaiian cocktail blends white rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and coconut for a tropical drink that’s creamy and irresistible.
The Paloma is a classic Mexican cocktail with tequila, grapefruit, and lime – refreshing, citrus-forward, and ideal for warm-weather sipping.
Tequila Sunrise
Yield: 1 cocktail | Prep Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- Ice
- 4 oz fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- ½ oz grenadine
- Orange slices and maraschino cherries, for garnish
Directions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour in the tequila and orange juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Slowly pour the grenadine down the side of the glass. It will settle at the bottom, creating a layered “sunrise” effect.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately, stirring only before drinking.
Tequila Sunrise Cocktail
This classic Tequila Sunrise cocktail layers freshly squeezed orange juice, tequila, and grenadine for a stunning summer drink.
Ingredients
- Ice
- 4 oz fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- ½ oz grenadine
- Orange slices and maraschino cherries, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour in the tequila and orange juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Slowly pour the grenadine down the side of the glass. It will settle at the bottom, creating a layered “sunrise” effect.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately, stirring only before drinking.
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![Italian Highball Glasses [Set of 6]](https://www.frugalmomeh.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/71gzOV3YblL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 299Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 8mgCarbohydrates: 42gFiber: 3gSugar: 31gProtein: 2g
This information is provided as a courtesy and for entertainment purposes only. This information comes from online calculators. Although frugalmomeh.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
