This sweet refreshing tequila sunrise cocktail is easy to make, and even easier to drink! Only 3 ingredients stand between you, and this cute summer drink!
There’s a wide assortment of summer drinks on my site that can brighten up your table, and wet your whistle. Some of my favorites are the Blue Hawaiian, and the Miami Vice. But, perhaps the easiest of all to make is the Tequila Sunrise. It is perfect for summer parties and BBQs. The drink is typically served in a highball glass, but feel free to get creative with serving containers and garnishes. I like to use a tiki umbrella or a cocktail sword.
It originated at a 1970s Rolling Stones party in San Francisco by Bobby Lozoff and Billy Rice. A year later Jose Cuervo picked up the drink in their marketing campaigns and the rest is history!
This fresh and fruity cocktail has a rich past, and just like its colors, is sure to enjoy a bright future.
I Love This Drink Because
- Looks amazing: Fun, light colors make this drink a must-try. I mean who doesn’t love putting a cute two-toned drink on their Instafeed.
- 3 Ingredients: You only need 3 common ingredients to make this. Most people keep a bottom of Tequila on the house, but if you don’t you can pick up an affordable choice at your local liquor store.
- No Fancy Bar Equipment: No cocktail shaker or blender is needed.
- Sweet Taste: The tangy orange juice and sweet grenadine make this a favorite among those who don’t drink very often.
What Does It Taste Like?
Never had a Tequila Sunrise before? You’re truly in for a refreshing treat. The Tequila Sunrise cocktail has a bright, citrusy taste. The sweetness of grenadine combines with the tang of the orange juice to make a cocktail that’s fresh and fruity.
Ingredient Notes and Shopping Tips
- Tequila: For this drink, I recommend either a Blanco tequila (which typically has a fresh and fruity taste) or a Silver tequila (the most common tequila and usually found in margaritas). Whatever tequila you choose, ensure you’re choosing a tequila that is 100% agave.
- Orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best. However, if you’re looking to cut calories or carbs consider a store-bought low-sugar version.
- Grenadine syrup: Grenadine is a syrup available in the mixers section of your grocery store. I found mine near the cocktail mixes/tonic waters. It adds a wonderful sweetness and gorgeous color to cocktails like this one. I also use it in my nonalcoholic Shirley Temple too. Traditionally, grenadine was made with pomegranate juice, and it still retains that fruity flavor.
- You can also garnish with orange slices and/or maraschino cherries.
How To Make Tequila Sunrise
- Fill glass with ice (I usually fill about halfway full).
- Pour in Tequila, then orange juice.
- Finally, Pour in grenadine.
Tips and Tricks
- Keep Layers Separate: Pour the grenadine syrup carefully down the side of the glass or over the back of a spoon so it doesn’t splash but rather gathers at the bottom.
- Adjust Grenadine: Add more or less grenadine to reach your desired level of sweetness.
- Make it nonalcoholic by using Sprite in place in the tequila.
- This drink uses one serving of tequila making it equal to one standard size drink. Always enjoy responsibly.
Fun Variations
- By the Pitcher: If you’re expecting friends for brunch, you’ll probably want to make a large pitcher instead of individual drinks. Use one cup of tequila for every two cups of orange juice. Drizzle in grenadine just before taking it to the table.
- Punch: Sometimes I like to substitute pineapple juice for a portion of the orange juice. Use two cups of tequila, three cups of orange juice, and one cup of pineapple juice. To kick up the flavor, even more, consider adding champagne or even a splash of coconut rum!
- Tequila Screwdriver: Use just tequila and orange juice.
- Caribbean Sunrise: Substitute rum for tequila.
- Florida Sunrise: Use half pineapple juice and half orange juice.
What is the Difference Between a Tequila Sunrise and a Tequila Sunset?
A tequila Sunset has the same ingredients as the original Tequila Sunrise, but with a splash of soda water mixed with grenadine to give the drink a red hue at the top instead of the bottom. Others like to use blackberry brandy in place of the grenadine in the sunset version.
More Summer Drinks To Try
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Tequila Sunrise
Ingredients
- 4 Ounces Orange Juice
- 2 Ounces Tequila
- 1 Ounce Grenadine
- Ice Cubes
- Orange Slices and Maraschino Cherries If Desired To Garnish
Instructions
Notes
- Tequila: For this drink, I recommend either a Blanco tequila (which typically has a fresh and fruity taste) or a Silver tequila. Whatever tequila you choose, ensure you’re choosing a tequila that is 100% agave.
- Orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best.
- Grenadine syrup: Grenadine is a syrup available in the mixers section of your grocery store. I found mine near the cocktail mixes/tonic waters.
- Keep Layers Separate: Pour the grenadine syrup carefully down the side of the glass or over the back of a spoon so it doesn’t splash but rather gathers at the bottom.
- Adjust Grenadine: Add more or less grenadine to reach your desired level of sweetness.
- This drink uses one serving of tequila making it equal to one standard size drink. Always enjoy responsibly.
Nutrition
So easy to make! Loved how simple the ingredients are and boy did it taste good! Perfect for summer!
This is undeniably refreshing!! Love how easy it is to make, too!
This is my favorite summer drink! Perfect for long evenings unwinding on the back porch!
Yum! I love this recipe! It’s our favorite! Can’t wait to make this again!
One of my favorite cocktails! I haven’t had one in so long until I found this. Thanks so much!