Tequila Sunrise

PSA: You don't have to be on vacation to enjoy a tequila sunrise. This 3-ingredient cocktail is so easy to make, it deserves to be celebrated all year long. Every part of this tropical drink (including the signature gradient!) is simple to create, even the most novice of bartenders will be able to perfect it.

This now-classic cocktail was first created in the early 1970s at a bar in Sausalito, California. It gained notoriety after The Rolling Stones tried the drink, and began to drink them throughout their tour. In 1973, The Eagles released a song called “Tequila Sunrise,” gaining it even more fame—TMYK! If you want to keep the good vibes going, keep reading on for everything you need to know to ace this sweet and fruity summer cocktail:

How to Make A Tequila Sunrise

INGREDIENTS

• Orange Juice: Orange juice is what adds the fruity, citrus twist to this cocktail. You can use fresh if you’d prefer the best cocktail possible, but in a pinch, store-bought will do just fine.
• Tequila: Silver tequila is the way to go in this cocktail. Use your favorite, or checkout Delish’s list of favorite tequila brands if you’re looking for inspo.
• Grenadine: If you’ve made a Dirty Shirley recently, use the extra grenadine here. This is what gives the sweet cherry punch to this tropical cocktail.

Recipe Tips

• How do I make the gradient? While it may look complicated, it’s very easy to create. Simply add the orange juice and tequila to your glass first, and stir to combine before adding your grenadine—slowly. This will create your stunning layered drink.
• How should I garnish a tequila sunrise? An orange slice and maraschino cherry complete this summertime drink. While it’s not required, it looks too adorable to pass up. Really want to up the tropical vibes? No one would complain if they found a little umbrella in their glass.

Tequila Sunrise Variations

• Tequila Sunrise Mimosas: The sunrise beomces brunch-worthy when you add tequila, grenadine, and a sugar-rimmed glass to a classic orange juice and Champagne mimosa.
• Frozen Tequila Sunrise Margarita: Will it margarita? Of course, it will! Blend a tequila sunrise with ice, triple sec, and lime juice for a frozen treat.
• Tequila Sunrise Jell-O Shots: Can’t get enough of that signature grenadine gradient? Turn your tequila sunrise into orange peel Jell-O shots.

Storage

For the best tequila sunrise, make this drink the morning of your pool party or beach day. But, if you really want to get ahead, you can batch this cocktail the night before and refrigerate until serving.