Tequila Sunrise Recipe

by | Aug 21, 2025 | Cocktail Recipes

Tequila Sunrise cocktail in a tall glass with gradient red to orange, garnished with orange slice, on a marble bar top with blurred warm background. Text reads Tequila Sunrise Recipe with Bartend Long Island logo.

The Tequila Sunrise is one of the most visually stunning cocktails—its vibrant orange and red layers resemble a sunrise in a glass. Made with just tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, this simple tequila cocktail recipe became an instant classic in the 1970s and remains a favorite at brunches, summer parties, and beach bars.

About the Tequila Sunrise

The Tequila Sunrise was made famous in the 1970s when the Rolling Stones dubbed it their official tour drink. It’s built directly in the glass—no shaking required—using blanco tequila, fresh orange juice, and grenadine. The grenadine naturally sinks to the bottom, creating that signature layered “sunrise” effect.

Pro link: Hosting a big party? Use our Alcohol Calculator to plan tequila, mixers, and garnishes by guest count.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz blanco tequila
  • 4 oz fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 oz grenadine
  • Ice cubes
  • Garnish: orange slice, maraschino cherry

Steps

  1. Fill the glass. Add ice cubes to a tall highball glass.
  2. Build the cocktail. Pour in tequila and orange juice. Stir gently.
  3. Create the sunrise. Slowly pour grenadine down the side of the glass—it will sink and then rise slightly, creating the gradient effect.
  4. Garnish. Add an orange slice and a cherry for the full retro look.

Tips

  • Use fresh juice: Fresh-squeezed orange juice keeps the drink vibrant and less sugary.
  • Grenadine quality: Opt for real pomegranate grenadine, not artificial syrup, for richer flavor.
  • Layering trick: Pour grenadine slowly over the back of a spoon for the cleanest gradient.

Variations

  • Tequila Sunset: Replace grenadine with blackberry brandy or crème de cassis for a darker “sunset” hue.
  • Frozen Sunrise: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy version.
  • Sunrise Mimosa: Top with champagne for a brunch-friendly twist.

Party Batch (8–10 drinks)

  • 2 1/2 cups tequila
  • 5 cups orange juice
  • 3/4 cup grenadine

Mix tequila and orange juice in a pitcher. Add grenadine just before serving so guests see the sunrise effect in their glass.

When to Serve

The Tequila Sunrise is perfect for brunch cocktails, poolside sipping, or retro-themed parties. Its bright look and easy build make it a showstopper at weddings, BBQs, and summer happy hours.

More tequila cocktails: Classic Margarita, Spicy Margarita, or Blood Orange Margarita.