I recently whipped up a Tequila Sunrise Cocktail that combines the zing of 2 oz tequila with 4 oz fresh orange juice and a splash of grenadine syrup. The icy blend, garnished with an orange slice and maraschino cherry, brings a burst of fruity vibrancy to any sunny afternoon.

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I’ve always loved how a simple tequila sunrise can turn an ordinary day into something special. When I mix 2 oz of tequila, 4 oz of fresh orange juice and 1/2 oz of grenadine syrup along with a glass full of ice cubes, it’s like creating a miniature work of art.

The drink not only tells a story with its vibrant, layered colors reminiscent of a summer sunrise but also packs a delightfully fruity flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Sometimes I even like to play around with variations like a Mango Tequila Sunrise or experiment with non alcoholic versions, proving how versatile tequila drinks can be.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic tequila sunrise cocktail or an innovative twist, this tequila drinks recipes is a simple yet colorful way to elevate your next get together. Don’t be surprised if it soon becomes a favorite go-to drink in your collection.

Why I Like this Recipe

I love how the vibrant layers in my glass instantly remind me of an actual sunrise. Watching the grenadine slowly sink and mix with the fresh orange juice always puts me in a good mood.

I really appreciate that the recipe is super simple. Just a few ingredients makes it perfect to whip up without stress on a lazy weekend.

The mix of tequila with fruity orange juice creates a refreshing taste that’s like a mini vacation in a glass. Plus, the little garnish of an orange slice and a cherry just makes it feel extra special to me.

Ingredients

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Tequila delivers a bold kick and distinct taste, though not many nutrients.
Fresh orange juice is loaded with vitamin C, tastes sweet, tangy, and boosts immunity.
Grenadine syrup adds syrupy sweetness and vivid color; its high sugar creates that sunrise feel.
Ice cubes balance the flavors and keep your drink delightfully refreshing on hot days.
Optional garnish like an orange slice and cherry makes it look super appealing.
Each ingredient builds lively layers; every sip bursts with its unique flavor.
While fun and tasty, moderation is key since alcohol doesn’t add much nourishment.

Ingredient Quantities

2 oz of tequila

4 oz of fresh orange juice

1/2 oz of grenadine syrup

Ice cubes to fill up your glass

Optional: an orange slice and a maraschino cherry for garnish

How to Make this

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1. Grab your favorite tall glass and fill it up with ice cubes.

2. Pour 2 oz of tequila straight over the ice.

3. Slowly add 4 oz of fresh orange juice to the glass.

4. Next, gently pour 1/2 oz of grenadine syrup into the mix; do it slowly so it sinks and creates a cool layered effect.

5. Try not to stir too much because you want those pretty sunrise colors to stay in layers.

6. If you wanna, add an orange slice on the rim and a maraschino cherry on top for that extra touch.

7. Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy your well-deserved Tequila Sunrise!

Equipment Needed

1. Tall glass (such as a highball glass) for serving the drink
2. Ice cube tray if you need to make ice cubes
3. Measuring jiggers for the tequila, orange juice, and grenadine
4. Knife and cutting board to slice the orange for garnish
5. Straw for sipping the tequila sunrise

FAQ

Q: Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

A: Yeah, you can, but fresh orange juice really makes the drink pop so its worth squeezing your own if you can.

Q: Why do I pour in grenadine slowly?

A: Pouring slow helps creating that cool sunrise effect as the grenadine sinks and then mixes gradually with rest of the drink.

Q: What kind of glass should I use?

A: A highball glass works best, coz its tall which fits plenty of ice and makes for a real pretty presentation.

Q: Can I tweak the tequila amount for a stronger kick?

A: Sure, feel free to add a bit more tequila if you want a stronger shot, but keep the balance with the juice so it ain’t too harsh.

Q: Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version?

A: Yes, you can swap tequila with a non-alcoholic spirit or even soda to get a similar layered look without the buzz.

Tequila Sunrise Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Swap the tequila with mezcal if you’re craving that smoky twist or even try a light rum for a completely different vibe.
If you dont have fresh orange juice, a good quality store-bought one or even a blend with a tinge of lemon juice can work just fine.
You can replace the grenadine syrup with pomegranate syrup; it keeps that sweet-and-tart kick without being too overpowering.
Crushed ice can be used instead of regular ice cubes if you want your drink to chill faster and blend the flavors better.
For garnishes, if an orange slice or maraschino cherry isnt available, a lemon wheel or even a small sprig of mint can be a fun alternative.

Pro Tips

1. Always try to use freshly squeezed orange juice since it makes the drink noticeably better than bottled stuff.
2. Make sure to chill your tequila and glass beforehand so the drink stays cold longer and doesnt get watered down too fast.
3. When you pour the grenadine, do it extra slowly over the back of a spoon if you can; it helps keep that cool layered look intact.
4. If you wanna switch things up, experiment with adding a twist of lime or a slice of lemon instead of just sticking with orange for a bit of different flavor.

Tequila Sunrise Recipe

Recipe by Sam Ecclestone

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

servings

Calories

250

kcal

Equipment: 1. Tall glass (such as a highball glass) for serving the drink
2. Ice cube tray if you need to make ice cubes
3. Measuring jiggers for the tequila, orange juice, and grenadine
4. Knife and cutting board to slice the orange for garnish
5. Straw for sipping the tequila sunrise

Ingredients

2 oz of tequila
4 oz of fresh orange juice
1/2 oz of grenadine syrup
Ice cubes to fill up your glass
Optional: an orange slice and a maraschino cherry for garnish

Directions

Grab your favorite tall glass and fill it up with ice cubes.
Pour 2 oz of tequila straight over the ice.
Slowly add 4 oz of fresh orange juice to the glass.
Next, gently pour 1/2 oz of grenadine syrup into the mix; do it slowly so it sinks and creates a cool layered effect.
Try not to stir too much because you want those pretty sunrise colors to stay in layers.
If you wanna, add an orange slice on the rim and a maraschino cherry on top for that extra touch.
Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy your well-deserved Tequila Sunrise!

Notes

Below you’ll find my best estimate of this recipe’s nutrition facts. Treat the numbers as a guide rather than a rule—great food should nourish both body and spirit. Figures are approximate, and the website owner assumes no liability for any inaccuracies in this recipe.