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Strawberry Tequila Sunrise

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated:

Categories Cocktails, Recipes

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Picture this: a sunset so vivid and vibrant, you could sip it.

That’s exactly what the Strawberry Tequila Sunrise feels like—except it tastes even better than it looks.

This fruity twist on the classic Tequila Sunrise combines the tart sweetness of strawberries with the smooth kick of tequila and a splash of orange juice, topped off with a cascading grenadine effect that mimics a breathtaking sunrise.

I love this cocktail because it’s simple to make but fancy enough to wow guests. It’s perfect for brunches, summer barbecues, or even a quiet evening when you want to feel a little extra.

Let’s dive into how you can make this vibrant drink in just a few steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to create your masterpiece:

  • 2 oz tequila (silver or blanco works best)
  • 4 oz orange juice (freshly squeezed for optimal flavor)
  • 1 oz grenadine
  • 1/2 cup fresh strawberries (plus a few extra for garnish)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, depending on your strawberries’ sweetness)
  • Ice cubes (enough to fill your glass)
  • Orange slices and strawberry halves for garnish

Breaking Down the Ingredients

Tequila
Tequila forms the backbone of this drink. Opt for a silver or blanco tequila, as its clean, crisp flavor complements the sweetness of the strawberries and orange juice without overwhelming the drink. If you’re feeling fancy, go for a top-shelf tequila, but even a mid-range brand will work just fine.

Orange Juice
Freshly squeezed orange juice makes all the difference here. Store-bought juice works in a pinch, but fresh juice adds a natural sweetness and brightness that elevates this cocktail from good to unforgettable.

Grenadine
This ruby-red syrup is the magic ingredient that creates the sunrise effect. It’s sweet, slightly tart, and absolutely necessary for that iconic visual appeal. You can use store-bought grenadine or make your own with pomegranate juice and sugar.

Strawberries
Fresh strawberries give this cocktail its unique twist. Blending them into the drink adds a fruity layer that pairs perfectly with the citrusy orange juice and smooth tequila. Pick ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.

Sugar (Optional)
If your strawberries are a little on the tart side, adding a teaspoon of sugar to the mix can help balance the flavors. Adjust to taste.

Ice Cubes
Ice not only chills the drink but also helps create the beautiful separation of layers. Use standard ice cubes or go for crushed ice if you prefer.

Garnishes
The garnish is the cherry on top—except in this case, it’s strawberries and orange slices. They’re not just decorative; they hint at the delicious flavors inside.

How to Make a Strawberry Tequila Sunrise

Step 1: Prep Your Strawberries

Start by washing and hulling your strawberries. Blend them into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor. If you’re aiming for a perfectly smooth texture, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds. If your strawberries aren’t particularly sweet, mix in a teaspoon of sugar.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

Fill a tall glass (a highball glass works perfectly) with ice cubes. The ice will help keep the layers distinct as you build the drink.

Step 3: Add the Tequila

Pour 2 ounces of tequila over the ice. If you’re making multiple drinks, you can use a cocktail shaker to mix the tequila and strawberry puree before pouring it into the glass. This step ensures the flavors are evenly combined.

Step 4: Introduce the Orange Juice

Slowly pour in 4 ounces of orange juice. Go slow to avoid mixing the layers—you’re aiming for a distinct gradient effect.

Step 5: Add the Grenadine

Now for the magic! Slowly pour 1 ounce of grenadine into the drink. The grenadine will sink to the bottom, creating that gorgeous sunrise effect. For the best results, pour it against the side of the glass or over the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top off your creation with a slice of orange and a halved strawberry on the rim of the glass. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even skewer the garnish on a cocktail pick for a professional touch. Serve immediately with a straw so your guests can marvel at the layers before giving it a gentle stir.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Tequila Sunrise

  • Chill Your Ingredients: Cold ingredients help maintain the distinct layers of the drink. Pop your orange juice and grenadine in the fridge a few hours before mixing.
  • Go Fresh: Freshly squeezed orange juice and ripe strawberries make all the difference in flavor. Avoid shortcuts here!
  • Experiment with Ratios: If you prefer a stronger drink, increase the tequila slightly. For a sweeter sip, add more grenadine.
  • Try It Frozen: For a summery twist, blend all the ingredients (except the grenadine) with ice to make a frozen version. Add the grenadine at the end for the same stunning sunrise effect.

Strawberry Tequila Sunrise Recipe

Strawberry Tequila Sunrise

The Strawberry Tequila Sunrise is a vibrant twist on a classic cocktail. Combining sweet strawberry puree, tangy orange juice, smooth tequila, and a splash of grenadine, this drink captures the beauty of a sunrise in every sip. It's perfect for summer parties, brunches, or any occasion that calls for a stunning, Instagram-worthy cocktail. Simple to make, it’s as delicious as it is eye-catching!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 1
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz tequila silver or blanco
  • 4 oz orange juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • 1 oz grenadine
  • ½ cup fresh strawberries
  • 1 tsp sugar optional, to taste
  • Ice cubes enough to fill your glass
  • Orange slice and strawberry half for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Wash and hull the strawberries, then blend them into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor.
  • If desired, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Add 1 tsp of sugar if the strawberries are not sweet enough.
  • Add ice cubes to a tall glass (like a highball glass), filling it almost to the top. This helps maintain the distinct layers.
  • Pour 2 oz of tequila into the glass, followed by the strawberry puree. Stir gently to combine.
  • Slowly pour 4 oz of orange juice over the tequila-strawberry mixture, being careful to keep the layers from mixing too much.
  • Slowly pour 1 oz of grenadine into the glass. It will sink to the bottom, creating the beautiful gradient effect that mimics a sunrise. Pour against the side of the glass or over the back of a spoon for best results.
  • Add a slice of orange and a halved strawberry to the rim of the glass for a decorative touch.
  • Serve immediately with a straw, letting your guests admire the layers before gently stirring.

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