Summer Sunset Cocktail
A refreshing layered summer cocktail made with vodka or white rum, citrus and pineapple juices, and a drizzle of grenadine for a gorgeous sunset glow—perfect for warm evenings and easy entertaining.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
- Citrus juicer
- Strainer
- Tall glass
- Ice cubes
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka or white rum
- 3 oz orange juice freshly squeezed
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 0.5 oz grenadine syrup
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice and cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Add the vodka or white rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, and lime juice to the shaker.
- Shake well for 10–15 seconds, or until the shaker feels frosty on the outside.
- Fill a tall glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the shaken mixture into the prepared glass.
- Slowly pour the grenadine syrup down the side of the glass so it sinks to the bottom and creates a red-to-gold sunset gradient.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. Serve immediately without stirring to keep the layers visible.
Notes
This cocktail is best served right away so the layered colors stay crisp and defined. The longer it sits, the more the colors and flavors blend together.
Use solid ice cubes instead of crushed ice to keep the gradient effect as long as possible and to avoid watering down the drink too quickly.
For a lighter or non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka or rum and top with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda instead.
Adjust the amount of grenadine to taste: use a little less if you prefer the drink less sweet, or a touch more if you want a deeper color and sweeter finish.