Vodka Sunrise Cocktail
A bright, layered vodka cocktail with orange juice and grenadine that creates a sunrise effect in the glass—refreshing, citrusy, and easy to mix.
Equipment
- Highball or collins glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Bar spoon
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Ice cubes
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz orange juice fresh is best
- 1/2 oz grenadine syrup
- ice cubes
- maraschino cherry garnish
- orange slice garnish
- 1 splash soda water optional
- 1 splash pineapple juice optional, variation
- 1 splash grapefruit juice optional, variation
Instructions
- Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice.
- Add vodka and orange juice to the glass and stir gently to combine.
- Slowly pour grenadine down the side of the glass or over the back of a bar spoon so it sinks and creates a sunrise effect.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice. Do not stir after adding grenadine.
- Optional: For a lighter drink, add a splash of soda water on top just before serving.
Notes
Serve immediately while cold for the best flavor and clean layers. Try grapefruit juice for a tarter twist or pineapple juice for a tropical note. Clear, tall glassware (like a Collins glass) shows off the gradient best.