Tequila Sunrise is a classic cocktail that has been around for decades. It’s a simple, yet delicious drink made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine. The combination of these three ingredients creates a beautiful sunrise-like effect in the glass.
This recipe is for adults ages 21+. Always drink responsibly and do not drink and drive.
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🌅 Tequila Sunrise Origins
The earliest known version of a Tequila Sunrise is attributed to Gene Sulit in the 1930s. It was at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix where he created a drink with tequila, soda water, lime juice, and liqueur.
Fast forward to the 1970’s and a new version made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine syrup emerged in Sausalito, California.
It’s a simple drink, but classic cocktail. It’s often served in a tall glass (highball glass) with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry as a garnish.
Tequila Sunrise Variations
There are many variations of the Tequila Sunrise, including adding different juices or liqueurs to the mix. Some popular variations include adding cranberry juice, pineapple juice, or even triple sec.
Making this fruity cocktail at home will save you money, and it’s easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to not drink and drive. (Always drink responsibly and only if you are at least 21 years old. For those who abstain, check out this nonalcoholic tequila mocktail.)
📝 Ingredients
- 4 ounces orange juice
- 2 ounces tequila
- ¼ ounce grenadine syrup
- ice
👩🏻🍳 Directions
Step 1: Fill your cup ¾ of the way with ice.
Step 2: Pour the tequila into the glass.
Step 3: Add orange juice.
Step 4: Pour your grenadine gently down the side of the glass and let it settle for a few seconds.
Garnish with a cherry and orange slice. Cocktail umbrella is optional.
📌 Tips
- If you have a larger glass such as a hurricane glass, you’ll want to add about ½ an ounce of grenadine instead and another 2 ounces of orange juice.
- If you like a little sweeter twist to your cocktail, try Sunny Delight instead of orange juice.
- For best results, use pulp-free orange juice for the smoothest results.
- Be sure to stir the drink before imbibing.
If you don’t like tequila, you can substitute vodka and make a Vodka Sunrise. (I can tell you from personal experience that they are just as good as Tequila Sunrises.)
📖 Recipe
Tequila Sunrise
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 ounces orange juice
- 2 ounces tequila
- ¼ ounce grenadine syrup
- ice
Instructions
- Fill glass ¾ of the way with ice.
- Pour the tequila into the glass.
- Add orange juice.
- Pour grenadine gently down the side of the glass and let it settle for a few seconds.
- Garnish with a cherry and orange slice.
Video
Notes
If you like a little sweeter twist to your cocktail, try Sunny Delight instead of orange juice.
For best results, use pulp-free orange juice for the smoothest results.
Be sure to stir the drink before imbibing. This recipe is for people ages 21 and older.
Nutrition
Come back and tell us how your Tequila Sunrise turned out!
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