The Tequila Sunrise Cocktail is a timeless classic that is perfect to enjoy during the summer months and just about any time. This tequila-based cocktail blends your choice of tequila, orange juice, orange liqueur, and grenadine syrup.
The first time I ever heard of Tequila Sunrise was from a movie (of the same name) back in 1988. It was a film about two friends being on opposite ends of the law, where at some point a pretty lady is caught between the two — plus some other twists and turns. That pretty much sums up this cocktail recipe! Lol.
However, the drink really gets its name because the color gradients resemble a California sunrise when made. Classics like this never go out of style.
My version of a Tequila Sunrise adds orange liqueur to enhance the flavors a bit. This four-ingredient cocktail is simple to make and easy to adjust to your taste and preference.
Ingredients to make a Tequila Sunrise:
- For the liquor, you’ll need tequila. A Blanco tequila is recommended, but you can also use a Reposados tequila or Añejo tequila—it’s your choice.
- For the orange juice, you don’t have to squeeze fresh orange juice yourself (although that would be the better choice); make sure to use the freshest option possible, which is not from concentrate.
- The orange liqueur adds a citrusy aroma and flavor that is perfect for this cocktail. You can go with Triple Sec or Grand Marnier here.
- The grenadine syrup will be the final step and is the ingredient that gives this cocktail its colorful gradient.
- You can garnish with an orange slice (I like the look of blood oranges) and a maraschino cherry.
How to make a Tequila Sunrise:
Add ice. Add one large block of ice or crushed or cubed ice to a short glass.
Add cocktail ingredients. Add the tequila, orange liqueur, and orange juice to the glass. Stir using a cocktail spoon. Note: You don’t need a cocktail shaker; you can pour the ingredients directly into the glass. However, using a cocktail shaker will result in a much colder drink.
Pour in the grenadine. The grenadine will sink to the bottom of the glass on its own, but you can also use the back of a spoon for a more “pronounced” red bottom.
Garnish. Garnish with an orange peel and cherry.
Tips when making a Tequila Sunrise
- Use a mid-range tequila and save the expensive stuff for when you enjoy your tequila neat or straight. Some choices include Don Julio Blanco, Casamigos Blanco, Patrón Silver, Milagro Silver, Espolòn Blanco, and Jose Cuervo Especial Silver.
- To achieve the “cleanest” sunrise effect with a pronounced red bottom, slowly pour the grenadine down the side of the glass using the back of a spoon. Since it is the heaviest ingredient, it will head straight to the bottom of your glass.
- If tequila isn’t your favorite, no worries. You can easily turn your Tequilla Sunrise into a Caribbean Sunrise, swapping out tequila for rum.
When you want a refreshing cocktail that is easy to make, give this Tequila Sunrise Cocktail a spot on your home bar menu.
Here are a few more summer cocktails you may enjoy:
Description
The Tequila Sunrise is a great summertime or anytime tequila-based cocktail that blends your choice of tequila with fresh orange juice, orange liqueur, and grenadine.
- Add ice, tequila, orange liqueur, and orange juice to a short cocktail glass and stir.
- Pour grenadine syrup into the cocktail.
- To garnish, add a cherry and orange peel.
Notes
To achieve the “cleanest” sunrise effect with a pronounced red bottom, slowly pour the grenadine down the side of the glass using the back of a spoon. Since it is the heaviest ingredient, it will head straight to the bottom of your glass.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Stir
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 2.6g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
