Fruity Tequila Sunrise

Here’s my go-to tequila sunrise recipe, with the classic combination of tequila, orange juice, and grenadine that creates those pretty sunrise-like layers everyone loves.

This cocktail has become my favorite drink to serve at summer backyard parties. I always make a big batch because friends keep asking for seconds. Nothing beats sipping on a cold, fruity cocktail on a warm afternoon, right?

What Kind of Tequila Should I Use?

For a classic tequila sunrise, you’ll want to stick with a silver (also called blanco or white) tequila, which has a clean, crisp taste that works perfectly with the orange juice. Silver tequila is unaged, meaning it goes straight from distillation to bottling, which helps maintain the bright, fresh flavors of the agave plant. While you could use reposado tequila (which is aged in oak barrels), its golden color might muddy the drink’s signature sunrise effect. When shopping, look for tequilas that say “100% agave” on the label – these are better quality than mixtos (tequilas made with both agave and other sugars), and they’ll give you a smoother-tasting cocktail.

Options for Substitutions

While this classic cocktail has some must-haves, there are a few ways you can switch things up:

• Tequila: White tequila is traditional, but you can use reposado tequila for a slightly different flavor. Mezcal works too if you want a smoky twist. This is a key ingredient though, so I wouldn’t skip the alcohol altogether or it won’t be a Tequila Sunrise!
• Orange juice: Fresh-squeezed orange juice works great here – just strain out the pulp. In a pinch, you can mix half orange juice and half mandarin juice for a different citrus note.
• Grenadine: If you’re out of grenadine, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 2 parts pomegranate juice with 1 part sugar, heated until the sugar dissolves. Cherry juice can work too, though the color won’t be quite the same.
• Garnishes: No maraschino cherries? A raspberry or fresh cherry works fine. For the orange slice, you can use a lemon or lime slice, or skip the garnish completely – it won’t affect the taste.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making

The biggest mistake when making a Tequila Sunrise is adding the grenadine incorrectly – it needs to be poured slowly down the side of the glass last, allowing it to sink naturally to create that signature sunrise effect.

Another common error is using orange juice with pulp or not using properly chilled ingredients, which can make your drink look cloudy and affect the layering – always opt for pulp-free juice and make sure all ingredients are well-chilled before mixing.

The ice-to-liquid ratio matters more than you might think: too much ice will dilute your drink quickly, while too little won’t keep it properly chilled – aim for filling your glass about 2/3 with ice cubes.

For the best presentation, avoid stirring the drink after adding the grenadine, and wait about 30 seconds to let the sunrise effect develop naturally before serving with your orange slice and cherry garnish.

What to Serve With a Tequila Sunrise?

This classic cocktail pairs really well with Mexican-inspired breakfast or brunch foods! Try serving it alongside some huevos rancheros or a breakfast burrito filled with scrambled eggs and chorizo. Since the drink is pretty sweet from the orange juice and grenadine, it’s nice to balance it with something savory – think crispy bacon, breakfast potatoes, or even some spicy chilaquiles. If you’re serving these at a party or gathering, put out some salted tortilla chips and fresh guacamole to snack on while sipping.

Storage Instructions

Prepare: This Tequila Sunrise is best enjoyed right after mixing! The layered effect of the grenadine settling at the bottom is what gives this cocktail its signature sunrise look, so it’s not meant to be stored for later.

Make Ahead: If you’re planning to serve these at a party, you can pre-chill your orange juice and tequila. Keep your garnishes ready in the fridge – the orange slices will stay fresh for about 24 hours when stored in an airtight container, and maraschino cherries will keep well in their jar.

Batch Prep: Want to make multiple drinks? Mix the orange juice and tequila ahead of time and keep the mixture chilled. When ready to serve, pour over ice and add the grenadine individually to each glass to create that perfect sunrise effect.

Preparation Time	5-10 minutes
Cooking Time	0 minutes
Total Time	5-10 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 1-2 g
• Fat: 0-1 g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 g

Ingredients

• 4 fl oz chilled orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• 1 maraschino cherry with stem
• 2 fl oz white tequila (I prefer Olmeca Altos Plata)
• ice cubes
• 1/2 fl oz grenadine syrup
• 1 fresh orange slice

Step 1: Prepare the Glass and Combine Ingredients

Take a highball or Collins glass and fill it halfway with ice cubes to chill the drink.

Pour in 4 ounces of cold pulp-free orange juice.

Add 2 ounces of tequila to the glass, then use a stirrer or spoon to gently mix the orange juice and tequila until well combined.

Step 2: Add the Grenadine for Visual Appeal

Slowly pour 1/2 ounce of grenadine into the center of the glass.

Allow the grenadine to settle on the bottom without stirring.

This creates a beautiful sunset effect, enhancing the presentation of the drink.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Finish by garnishing your drink with 1 fresh orange slice placed on the rim of the glass and a Maraschino cherry on top.

Serve immediately to enjoy a refreshing and visually stunning beverage.