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This colorful Tequila Sunset drink layers tequila, fresh orange juice, and sweet grenadine for a smooth, eye-catching treat. It feels like a beach sunset in a glass and adds a refreshing splash to any event with its bright flavors and vibrant look.
The first time I made this drink was at a summer party and it quickly became a crowd-pleaser because it looks amazing and tastes great. Now it’s my go-to when I want something simple but impressive.
Basics
- Two ounces tequila: pick a smooth blanco or reposado for richer flavor
- Four ounces fresh orange juice: freshly squeezed keeps it bright and zesty
- Half an ounce grenadine: adds sweetness and the classic sunset layers—choose natural pomegranate syrup if you can
- Ice cubes: keep the drink cool and the layers neat
- Orange wedge: fresh scent and pretty touch for the rim
- Maraschino cherry: a splash of color and a little sweetness to finish
How to Make It
- Fill Glass with Ice:
- Load up a tall glass with ice and let it chill while you get the drink ready so everything stays cold and the layers hold up.
- Add Tequila Then Orange Juice:
- Pour the tequila first, then slowly pour the orange juice down the side so they mix lightly without blending fully.
- Drizzle in Grenadine:
- Pour the grenadine carefully using a spoon’s back near the glass wall so it sinks and creates that cool sunset gradient.
- Garnish Nicely:
- Pop an orange slice on the rim and top with a maraschino cherry for a fresh smell and a nice look.
- Serve it Cold:
- Drink it right away to keep the colors sharp and the flavors fresh.
My favorite moment is watching the grenadine slowly drift down and create that amazing ombre look. It brings back memories of relaxing evenings and good times with friends.
Keeping it Fresh
This drink’s best fresh so don’t mix too early. You can make the orange juice ahead and keep it in the fridge for a day or two. Keep your grenadine sealed in a cool, dark spot for up to six months.
Swaps You Can Try
If you want something lighter, try swapping tequila with silver rum or vodka. For a sweeter touch, homemade pomegranate syrup works great instead of store grenadine. Fresh blood orange juice adds a cool seasonal twist too.
What to Serve With It
This works well with light bites like shrimp ceviche, tortilla chips with guac, or a fresh citrus salad. It’s also a bright, tasty brunch drink alongside dishes like huevos rancheros or chilaquiles.
This drink is just as gorgeous as it is tasty. Getting the layers right is all about pouring slowly. Have fun making it and sharing it with friends anytime.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which tequila works best for this drink?
Try a good blanco or reposado tequila. They keep the drink smooth and balance nicely with the tangy orange and sweet grenadine.
- → How do I get those clear sunset layers?
Pour grenadine slowly down the side of the glass so it sinks to the bottom and makes neat layers under the orange juice and tequila.
- → Is bottled orange juice okay to use?
Fresh orange juice tastes brighter, but if you don’t have it, a good bottled one will work fine.
- → Should I cool the glass before making the drink?
Yes, chilling the glass with ice keeps the drink cold longer and helps the layers stay neat.
- → Do I need to stir before drinking?
You can stir gently to mix flavors, but many like to drink slowly and enjoy the layered colors before blending everything.