Vodka Sunrise Recipe

How to make a Vodka Sunrise Recipe with Vodka, Grenadine, and Orange Juice. The grenadine and orange juice create a sunrise effect which is so much fun.

Vodka Sunrise Recipe

This cocktail is a play-off of the Classic Screwdriver Cocktail or a classic Tequila Sunrise Cocktail. The addition of Grenadine adds a fun splash of color and flavor.

We love a cocktail recipe that is easy and tastes amazing. This Vodka Sunrise is a great alternative to classic cocktails.

I think this is the perfect summer cocktail for lounging outside in the great weather. It reminds me of a beautiful sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico or in Hawaii.

Ingredients

This is a quick overview of the simple ingredients that you'll need to make an epic Vodka Sunrise Drink! Specific measurements and step-by-step instructions are included in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Vodka (Plain, citrus, or flavored)
• Orange Juice (we prefer to use pulp-free)
• Red Grenadine Syrup

Garnish - Orange wheel/Orange wedge/Orange Slices

Optional - Maraschino cherry, lemon or lime slices, mint leaves

Equipment Needed

• Highball glass/Collins glass
• Jigger / Measuring Tools
• Bartending Spoon

I like to use a tall glass to make this vodka cocktail so the layers show with the grenadine.

How to make a Vodka Sunrise Drink Recipe

I've included complete instructions in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, but here's a quick version.

Add ice cubes to the Collins Glass

Add the Vodka and OJ to the glass with ice, stir together

Add in a bit more than a dash of Grenadine

Garnish with orange slice/wheel

Preparation and Storage

Make Ahead – We do not suggest making this Vodka Sunrise cocktail ahead of time. The colors will start to mix together and you won't have the cool layers on the bottom of the glass.

Storage – If you have any leftovers you can store them in the refrigerator. Just make sure to remove the ice so the drink doesn't get watered down.

Recipe Variations

Substitutions - Change up the flavor of vodka or fruit juices used to add more fruit flavors.

Check out our Malibu Sunset for another variation of this cocktail using Malibu Coconut Rum.

Pineapple Juice - You can use pineapple juice instead of orange juice or use a combination of both.

Grapefruit Juice - Add in a splash of Grapefruit juice or replace the orange juice completely.

Cranberry Juice - The colorful layers won't show as much but the cocktail tastes great.

For a bubblier drink add a bit of soda water for a unique twist.

Vegetarian Option - This recipe is vegetarian.

Vegan Option – This recipe is Vegan

Gluten Free - Vodka is considered Gluten-Free

Alcohol Free Option – You can use Zero Proof NA Vodka to make mocktails

Smaller Serving Size – You can easily halve the re

Make it Spicy – Change up the flavor of vodka used to a spicy vodka or rim the glass with Tajin.

Larger Group/More servings – This recipe can be made in a pitcher for large groups.  You  may need to stir it to mix the flavor instead of having the grenadine float on the bottom.

Sugar Free – Use low sugar orange juice.

Expert Tips for the Best Vodka Sunrise Drink

You can adapt the amount of Grenadine you use depending on how bright of a red layer  you want on the bottom of the drink.

Printable recipe card instructions are below.

Nutrition information, including calories, protein, calcium, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamin c, potassium, cholesterol, sodium, trans fat, monounsaturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, and more, will vary depending on the products used.

When to serve

• Brunch
• Summer Cocktails
• Pool Party
• Girls Night In

Great Cocktail Recipes and Collections

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Blue Cocktails - Vibrant blue cocktails that can easily be made at home.

Grenadine Cocktails - Learn more about Grenadine and all of the drinks that you can make with it.  Grenadine is a non-alcoholic syrup that gets its bright, fruity flavor and deep red hue from pomegranate juice.

Check out all of our vodka cocktail recipes.

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