The Tequila Sunrise is named for having red and yellow layers—evoking a colorful sunrise. This beautiful three ingredient cocktail has a fun rock and roll history. Let’s learn to make a Tequila Sunrise cocktail. It’s one of the classics you need to know.
Related: Screwdriver, Peach Bellini, Espresso Martini, Green Tea Shot, Orange Julius.
Ingredients
- Tequila – This recipe calls for unaged blanco tequila.
- Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed is best (but we won’t tell).
- Grenadine Syrup – We’ve got a recipe here if you want to try making it.
- Orange Slice and Maraschino Cherry – Optional garnishes.
Directions
Begin by pouring the grenadine syrup into the bottom of your glass. Next, add ice to the glass.
In a cocktail shaker with ice combine the orange juice and tequila and shake for 10-15 seconds. Pour over ice in glass.
Garnish with maraschino cherries and an orange slice.
Serve this drink unmixed or stir just before serving for maximum sunrise. Enjoy!
Tips for Making
History of the Tequila Sunrise
The original Tequila Sunrise was created in the 1930s in Phoenix, Arizona by bartender Gene Sulit at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. The original recipe had different ingredients: tequila, creme de cassis, lime juice and soda water. Sounds delicious, while nothing like the drink we know today.
The modern Tequila Sunrise, as we know it now, was created in the early 1970s by bartenders Billy Rice and Bobby Lozoff. It became extremely popular by the Rolling Stones, including Mick Jagger. The band made it their drink of choice, ordering them all across the country. Their 1972 tour was even dubbed the “cocaine and Tequila Sunrise tour.” A year later, the Eagles released a song called “Tequila Sunrise” on their “Desperado” album.
Tequila Sunrise Variations
- Mango Sunset – Replace the orange juice with mango juice or grapefruit juice for a differently flavored variation.
- Virgin Tequila Sunset – Create a mocktail version by omitting the tequila entirely. My kids love it!
- Sailors Sunrise – Create a Sailors Sunrise by swapping the tequila for rum.
- Tequila Sunset – The distinction between a Tequila Sunrise and Sunset is that a Tequila Sunrise uses grenadine syrup to achieve the red layer, while the Tequila Sunset uses blackberry brandy for a darker ombre.
More brunch recipes:
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tequila Sunrise made of?
The Tequila Sunrise is made of three ingredients: tequila, grenadine and orange juice.
Who popularized the Tequila Sunrise?
The Rolling Stones popularized the Tequila Sunrise by making it their go-to drink and ordering all the way across the country in their 1970s tours.
Why is it called a Tequila Sunrise?
The grenadine syrup in the bottom of the glass creates a sunrise effect as you drink the beverage and the red color spreads into the yellow. It mimics a sunrise.
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Learn to make a Tequila Sunrise cocktail with only three ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by pouring the grenadine syrup into the bottom of your glass.
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Next, add ice to the glass.
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In a cocktail shaker with ice combine the orange juice and tequila and shake for 10-15 seconds.
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Pour over ice.
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Garnish with maraschino cherries and an orange slice.
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Serve this drink unmixed or with just a few quick stirs just before serving for maximum sunrise. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Tequila Sunrise
Amount per Serving
% Daily Value*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Notice: Nutrition is auto-calculated, using Spoonacular, for your convenience. Where relevant, we recommend using your own nutrition calculations.
