Classic Cocktails & Drinks With A Funky Twist

Tequila Sunrise

5 from 3 votes
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Posted: 05/04/24

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy
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This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

The classic Tequila Sunrise is one of the most popular tequila drinks (you too, Margarita). Its layered vibrant colors mimic a summer sunrise and its flavor is delightfully fruity. It is perfect for entertaining due to its aesthetic appeal and refreshing flavor.

glass of tequila sunrise with ice and an orange slice and cherry garnish

Any cocktail that involves orange juice is perfect for brunch and this tequila drink is no exception. The “sunrise” effect appears naturally due to the difference in density of the three ingredients. This makes constructing the refreshing cocktail quite simple. Similar to a Screwdriver but with tequila instead of vodka, a splash of grenadine gives the golden sunrise appearance with a touch of sweetness that helps to balance the tartness of the orange juice.

Tequila Sunrise Ingredients

Just three simple ingredients are needed for this dreamy cocktail. To make a Tequila Sunrise at home you will need:

  • Tequila: No need to go top shelf for this recipe, however, I always recommend using a tequila that is 100% agave. With the fruity flavors, the flavor of the tequila isn’t so potent in this cocktail.
  • Orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best for the most refreshing flavors in cocktails.
  • Grenadine: A thick, non-alcoholic syrup made from pomegranates.

How to Make a Tequila Sunrise

The steps are simple to make this gorgeous cocktail. Escape to a beach sunrise in a glass by following these easy directions:

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
  2. Pour in the tequila and orange juice and stir.
  3. Slowly pour grenadine syrup around the inside edge of the glass so it settles at the bottom.
  4. Garnish with an orange slice and maraschino cherry and enjoy!
man pouring grenadine into a glass of tequila sunrise and ice surrounded by orange slices, cherries, and a pitcher of orange juice

Tequila Sunrise vs. Sunset

The key difference between a Tequila Sunrise and a Tequila Sunset is in one ingredient. Swap the grenadine for blackberry brandy. The two ingredients slightly alter the taste and color of the cocktails, enough so that they have different names.

Tequila Sunset

With orange juice, tequila, and blackberry brandy, the tequila sunset is easy on your palate and enjoyable any time of day.
glass of tequila sunset with ice and cherries and orange slice as garnish

How to Serve

Serve your cocktail on the rocks or over ice. A highball glass really flaunts the presentation of the colors of this cocktail. Avoid stirring or mixing the drink to keep the color striations. If you like your cocktails on the sour end, add a squeeze of lime.

two glasses of tequila sunrise with ice and fresh orange slice and cherry garnish

Other Tequila Cocktails

If you make this Tequila Sunrise recipe or any of our other cocktails, leave a comment letting us know what you think!

two glasses of tequila sunrise with ice and orange slice and cherry garnish
5 from 3 votes

Tequila Sunrise

Serves: 1 cocktail
(tap # to scale)
Prep: 4 minutes
Total: 4 minutes
The Tequila Sunrise has layered vibrant colors that mimic a summer sunrise and a delightfully fruity flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 ounces tequila
  • 3 ounces orange juice
  • 1/2 ounce grenadine

Instructions

  • Fill a glass with ice.
  • Pour in the tequila and orange juice.
  • Pour in the grenadine carefullly so it settles at the bottom of the glass.
  • Garnish and enjoy!
Author: Nathan Longley
Course: Drinks
two glasses of tequila sunrise with ice and orange slice and cherry garnish

Did You Make This

Tequila Sunrise

I’d love to see what you made! Tag me @shakedrinkrpt and hashtag it #shakedrinkrepeat!

Nathan Longley has been his wife’s personal bar tender for as long as he can remember. While he most often enjoys a cold beer, he is known to love our vodka gimlet.

Reader Interactions

    5 from 3 votes (2 ratings without comment)

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  1. Chez says

    5 stars
    Awesome and easy! Thank you!!

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