Start your morning with a bright and citrusy cocktail that brings together sweet cinnamon and fresh orange flavors.
This easy-to-make drink needs just four ingredients: orange juice, cinnamon simple syrup, vodka, and a splash of club soda.
The orange-tinted drink looks like a sunrise in the glass, making it perfect for weekend brunches or holiday gatherings. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds an extra touch of warmth and spice to each sip.
Mix this drink in less than five minutes using basic bar tools. The recipe makes one serving but can be doubled or tripled to serve a group.
Keep reading for the full recipe and mixing instructions.
Cinnamon Orange Sunrise Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Tall cocktail glass (12 oz)
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Bar spoon
- Ice
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 4 oz fresh orange juice
- 1 oz grenadine
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Orange slice for garnish
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add tequila, orange juice, and ground cinnamon to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
- Fill the tall glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the mixture from the shaker into the glass.
- Slowly pour the grenadine down the side of the glass. It will sink to create the sunrise effect.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cinnamon stick.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
The Cinnamon Orange Sunrise cocktail greets the palate with bright citrus notes and warm spice aromas. Fresh orange juice brings natural sweetness while cinnamon adds depth and complexity.
A gentle hint of vanilla from the bourbon creates a smooth, creamy texture. The spices linger pleasantly on the tongue without overpowering the drink’s refreshing qualities.
This cocktail balances sweet and spicy elements perfectly. The orange’s natural acidity cuts through the richness of the bourbon, while cinnamon provides a cozy warmth that makes each sip memorable.
Key Flavor Components:
- Sweet orange juice
- Warm cinnamon spice
- Smooth bourbon notes
- Light vanilla undertones
The drink’s orange-amber color matches its flavor profile beautifully. As the ice melts, the flavors blend together but maintain their distinct characteristics.
Temperature affects the taste experience. When served extra cold, the cocktail feels crisp and invigorating. As it warms slightly, the cinnamon and bourbon notes become more pronounced.
Substitute
Several ingredients can replace items in the Cinnamon Orange Sunrise cocktail while keeping its basic flavor profile intact.
For orange juice, try using mandarin juice, tangerine juice, or blood orange juice. Each option adds a unique citrus twist to the drink.
Non-alcoholic substitutes can replace the vodka:
- Orange-flavored sparkling water
- White grape juice
- Apple juice mixed with club soda
The grenadine syrup can be swapped with:
- Pomegranate juice
- Cherry juice
- Raspberry syrup
Fresh cinnamon sticks work best, but ground cinnamon makes a good backup. Use 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for each stick called for in the recipe.
When sugar syrup isn’t available, mix equal parts hot water and sugar until dissolved. Store the mixture in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Crushed ice can replace regular ice cubes. The drink will become cold faster, though it may dilute more quickly.