A Screwdriver cocktail is about as easy and refreshing as it gets. Just grab two ingredients—vodka and orange juice—and you’re already halfway there.
The basic Screwdriver recipe calls for 2 ounces of vodka and 4-6 ounces of orange juice, served over ice in a highball glass.
This drink’s got a bit of a legend behind it. Apparently, American oil workers in the mid-20th century stirred vodka into their morning OJ with actual screwdrivers—hence the name.
It’s a go-to for brunches, pool parties, or whenever you want something light and fruity without a fuss.
Some bartenders like to get creative by adding things like grenadine, triple sec, or a fresh fruit garnish. The simplicity of the Screwdriver makes it a great base for experimenting, if you’re feeling adventurous at home.
Screwdriver Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Bar spoon or cocktail stirrer
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic Screwdriver:
- 2 oz 60ml vodka
- 4-6 oz 120-180ml fresh orange juice
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice for garnish optional
Instructions
- Fill the glass with ice – Toss ice cubes into your highball glass until it’s about three-quarters full.
- Pour in vodka – Measure out 2 oz of vodka and pour it over the ice.
- Add orange juice – Slowly add 4-6 oz of orange juice right on top.
- Stir gently – Give it a gentle stir for about 10-15 seconds. You want it mixed, but not watered down.
- Garnish – Pop an orange slice on the rim if you’re feeling fancy.
- Serve right away while it’s still icy cold. The color should be bright orange, and you might see the vodka and juice layers swirling together.
Notes
Float Galliano liqueur on top for a “Harvey Wallbanger”
A dash of grenadine gives it extra color and sweetness
If you’re making a batch for a group, mix everything in a pitcher ahead of time. Just don’t add ice until you pour—it’ll water down the whole thing if you do. For a frothy feel, shake the vodka and orange juice with ice, then strain it into your glass over fresh ice.
Tasting Notes
The Screwdriver’s all about bright, citrusy refreshment. It’s simple, but the flavors pop.
Fresh orange juice gives it a natural sweetness and a little tang. The vodka slides in with a subtle warmth, but shouldn’t overpower the orange.
If you use fresh juice, you’ll get a bit of pulp and a softer texture. Premium vodka tastes cleaner and goes down smoother, with less of that harsh finish.
Flavor Profile:
- Primary: Sweet orange
- Secondary: Gentle vodka warmth
- Finish: Crisp, slightly tart
A good Screwdriver should taste like orange juice with a grown-up twist. If you notice a strong alcohol flavor, try adjusting your ratios next time.
Different oranges change things up:
- Valencia oranges make it sweeter
- Blood oranges add a berry vibe
- Store-bought juice? It’s usually sweeter and more consistent
Serve it cold for the best experience. When it’s properly chilled, the alcohol fades into the background and the drink just feels more refreshing.
Substitute
If you can’t find all the ingredients for a Screwdriver cocktail, don’t stress. There are some easy swaps you can make that still hit the spot.
No vodka? Try white rum, gin, or even tequila. Each one brings its own twist, but they all play nicely with orange juice.
If you’re out of orange juice, other citrus juices can step in. Grapefruit juice with vodka makes a “Greyhound”—it’s a bit sharper, honestly.
Tangerine or blood orange juice? Both add a little something special if you’re feeling adventurous.
Fresh juice isn’t a must. Frozen concentrate does the trick—just follow the directions on the can.
Bottled juice works too, but you’ll want to grab one that’s 100% juice, no added sugar. Trust me, it tastes way better that way.
