Orange juice cocktails bring a burst of sunny flavor to your drinks. These tasty mixes blend the sweet tang of oranges with various spirits and other ingredients. You’ll find options for every taste, from classic recipes to creative new concoctions.
Orange juice cocktails can suit many occasions, from brunch to happy hour. Some are light and refreshing, perfect for sipping by the pool. Others are stronger and more complex, great for evening gatherings. With so many choices, you’re sure to find an orange juice cocktail you’ll love.

1. Mimosa
The mimosa is a popular brunch cocktail that’s easy to make at home. You’ll need just two ingredients: chilled sparkling wine and orange juice.
Pour equal parts of each into a champagne flute for the classic version. For a stronger drink, use 2 parts wine to 1 part juice.
Try fresh-squeezed orange juice for the best flavor. You can also experiment with other juices like pineapple or grapefruit.
For a non-alcoholic version, swap the wine for sparkling grape juice or cider. Add a splash of grenadine for extra sweetness if you like.
Garnish your mimosa with an orange slice or fresh herbs for a fancy touch. Now you’re ready to enjoy this refreshing drink!

2. Tequila Sunrise
The Tequila Sunrise is a classic orange juice cocktail that’s perfect for summer. You’ll love its vibrant colors and refreshing taste.
To make it, you’ll need tequila, orange juice, and grenadine syrup. Fill a glass with ice, then add tequila and orange juice. Slowly pour in the grenadine, letting it sink to the bottom.
The drink gets its name from the beautiful color gradient it creates. The red grenadine at the bottom looks like a sunrise against the orange juice.
This cocktail became popular in the 1970s. It’s easy to make and tastes great. You can adjust the amount of tequila to suit your preference.

3. Orange Crush
The Orange Crush is a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for summer. You’ll love its bright citrus flavor and fizzy kick.
To make it, fill a glass with ice. Add orange-flavored vodka, triple sec, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
Top it off with a splash of lemon-lime soda for some bubbles. Garnish with an orange slice and a sprig of mint if you like.
This drink is easy to customize. You can adjust the amount of vodka or use plain vodka instead of flavored. For a non-alcoholic version, just leave out the spirits.

4. Harvey Wallbanger
The Harvey Wallbanger is a classic cocktail that gained popularity in the 1970s. It’s a simple drink that builds on the Screwdriver by adding Galliano, an Italian herbal liqueur.
To make a Harvey Wallbanger, you’ll need vodka, orange juice, and Galliano. Fill a tall glass with ice, add vodka and orange juice, then stir. Float the Galliano on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
For garnish, add an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. The result is a sweet, citrusy drink with hints of vanilla and herbs from the Galliano.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy fruity drinks with a twist. It’s easy to make at home and sure to impress your guests at your next party.

5. Citrus Bourbon Lemonade
This refreshing cocktail blends bourbon with lemonade for a perfect summer drink. The smooth richness of bourbon pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy lemonade.
To make it, mix bourbon, fresh lemonade, and a splash of orange juice in a glass filled with ice. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Garnish with a lemon wheel and orange slice for extra citrus flair. The result is a zesty, balanced cocktail that’s great for sipping on warm evenings.
You can adjust the ratios to suit your taste. Add more lemonade for a lighter drink, or increase the bourbon for a stronger kick. This versatile cocktail works well for both casual gatherings and fancier occasions.

6. Screwdriver
The Screwdriver is a classic orange juice cocktail you can easily make at home. You’ll need vodka and orange juice to create this simple drink.
Fill a highball glass with ice. Pour in 1 part vodka and 2 parts orange juice. Stir well to mix the ingredients.
You can adjust the ratio to suit your taste. Some prefer equal parts vodka and juice for a stronger drink.
For a twist, try adding a splash of lemon-lime soda or a float of Galliano liqueur on top. These variations can add extra flavor to your Screwdriver.

The Fuzzy Navel is a simple yet delightful cocktail that combines peach schnapps and orange juice. This sweet and fruity drink is perfect for warm summer days or casual gatherings.
To make a Fuzzy Navel, you’ll need equal parts peach schnapps and orange juice. Pour them over ice in a glass and give it a gentle stir. For added flair, garnish with an orange wheel.
This cocktail is known for its easy-drinking nature. The orange juice masks much of the alcohol taste, making it go down smoothly. If you prefer less sweetness, adjust the ratio to use more orange juice.

8. Blood Orange Margarita
The Blood Orange Margarita adds a vibrant twist to the classic cocktail. This drink combines tequila, orange liqueur, and fresh blood orange juice for a unique flavor.
To make it, rim a glass with salt. Mix tequila, orange liqueur, blood orange juice, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into the glass over fresh ice.
The deep red color of blood oranges makes this drink visually striking. It has a tangy-sweet taste with subtle bitter notes. Garnish with a blood orange slice for extra flair.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup. For a spicier version, try using a jalapeño-infused tequila.

9. Orange Cardamom Gin Fizz
This refreshing cocktail combines zesty orange juice with aromatic cardamom and gin. You’ll love the blend of citrus and spice in every sip.
To make it, infuse gin with crushed cardamom pods for a few hours. Mix the infused gin with fresh orange juice and a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Add a touch of simple syrup to balance the flavors. Pour over ice and top with soda water for a fizzy finish. Garnish with an orange slice and a sprinkle of ground cardamom.
This drink is perfect for warm summer evenings or anytime you want a unique twist on a classic gin fizz.

10. Solstice Spritz
The Solstice Spritz is a bright and refreshing cocktail perfect for summer celebrations. This drink combines orange juice with sparkling wine and a splash of elderflower liqueur.
To make it, mix 2 ounces of orange juice with 1 ounce of elderflower liqueur in a glass filled with ice. Top it off with 3 ounces of chilled Prosecco or sparkling wine.
Garnish your Solstice Spritz with a slice of orange and a sprig of fresh mint. The result is a light, bubbly drink that captures the essence of summer in every sip.

11. Citrus Vodka Collins
The Citrus Vodka Collins is a zesty twist on the classic cocktail. You’ll love this refreshing drink on a hot summer day.
To make it, mix citrus-flavored vodka with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Pour over ice in a tall glass. Top it off with club soda for some fizz.
Garnish your Citrus Vodka Collins with an orange or lemon slice. You can also add a maraschino cherry for a pop of color.
This drink is easy to customize. Try using different citrus juices like grapefruit or lime for variety. You can also adjust the sweetness to your taste.

12. Orange Rum Punch
Orange Rum Punch is a refreshing cocktail perfect for summer parties. You’ll need light rum, dark rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, and lime juice.
Mix the ingredients in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Add ice and stir well. For a fun twist, float some orange slices on top.
This drink is easy to make in big batches. You can adjust the amount of rum to suit your taste. Some recipes include grenadine for a sunset effect.
Serve in tall glasses filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry or an orange wedge for extra flair. Orange Rum Punch is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

13. Sunset Sangria
Sunset Sangria is a refreshing orange juice cocktail perfect for summer evenings. This drink combines red wine, orange juice, and brandy for a fruity and boozy mix.
To make it, pour orange juice, red wine, and brandy into a large glass. Stir gently to blend the flavors. Add ice cubes to keep it cool.
Top it off with a splash of soda water for some fizz. Garnish with orange and strawberry slices for a pretty look. The fruit adds extra flavor as it soaks in the drink.
Sip this sangria while watching the sunset for a relaxing end to your day. It’s great for parties too – just make a big batch in a pitcher.

14. Mandarin Mojito
The Mandarin Mojito puts a citrusy twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. You’ll need light rum, fresh mandarin juice, lime juice, mint leaves, and club soda.
Start by muddling mint leaves with lime juice in a glass. Add ice, rum, and mandarin juice. Top it off with club soda and stir gently.
Garnish your drink with a mandarin wedge and extra mint leaves. The result is a refreshing blend of tangy citrus and cool mint flavors.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding simple syrup if desired. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the rum and add more club soda.

15. Orange Martini
The Orange Martini is a bright, citrusy twist on the classic cocktail. You’ll need vodka or gin, fresh orange juice, and triple sec.
Start by chilling your martini glass. Next, fill a shaker with ice and add your chosen spirit, orange juice, and triple sec.
Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients. Strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
For a finishing touch, garnish with an orange peel. Run the peel around the rim of the glass to release its oils and enhance the drink’s aroma.
This refreshing cocktail is perfect for sipping on warm evenings or serving at parties. Its sweet and tangy flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser.

16. Tropical Screw
The Tropical Screw is a fruity twist on the classic Screwdriver. It adds pineapple juice and grenadine to the usual vodka and orange juice mix.
To make one, you’ll need vodka, orange juice, pineapple juice, and a splash of grenadine. Fill a glass with ice and pour in the vodka. Add equal parts orange and pineapple juice.
Top it off with a splash of grenadine for a sweet, tropical flavor. Stir gently to mix the ingredients. You can garnish with an orange slice or a cherry if you like.
This drink is perfect for summer parties or relaxing by the pool. Its fruity taste and bright colors make it a fun choice for any occasion.

17. Orange Whiskey Sour
The Orange Whiskey Sour is a zesty twist on the classic cocktail. It blends the warmth of whiskey with the bright citrus of orange juice.
To make one, you’ll need whiskey, orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Add these ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake well.
For extra smoothness, you can add an egg white before shaking. This creates a nice frothy top.
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. You can garnish with an orange slice or cherry if you like.
This drink is perfect for sipping on a warm evening. It’s refreshing and has a good balance of sweet and sour flavors.
History of Orange Juice in Cocktails
Orange juice has played a key role in cocktail culture for over a century. Its bright flavor and versatility have made it a favorite mixer among bartenders and home enthusiasts alike.
Origins of Orange Juice Cocktails
The use of orange juice in cocktails dates back to the late 19th century. Bartenders began experimenting with this citrus fruit to create new and exciting drinks. One early example is the Ward 8 cocktail, invented in 1898 at a Boston restaurant called “The Gilded Age.”
As oranges became more widely available, their juice quickly gained popularity in mixed drinks. The natural sweetness and acidity of orange juice made it an ideal partner for various spirits.
Evolution in Mixology
Orange juice cocktails really took off in the 1960s with the rise of singles bars. The screwdriver, a simple mix of vodka and orange juice, became an iconic drink during this era. Its simplicity and refreshing taste made it a go-to choice for many bar-goers.
Throughout the following decades, bartenders continued to create new orange juice cocktails. The tequila sunrise, with its striking layered appearance, became another popular option. Today, you’ll find orange juice in a wide range of drinks, from classic martini variations to modern craft cocktails.
Mixologists now use orange juice to balance flavors, add sweetness, and bring a bright citrus note to their creations. Its versatility ensures that orange juice remains a staple in bars and home cocktail cabinets around the world.
Health Benefits of Orange Juice Cocktails
Orange juice cocktails offer some nutritional perks along with their tasty flavors. They provide vitamin C and other nutrients while helping you stay hydrated.
Nutritional Advantages
Orange juice adds vitamin C to your cocktails. This vitamin boosts your immune system and helps your body absorb iron. One glass of orange juice has about 93% of your daily vitamin C needs.
Orange juice also contains folate, potassium, and thiamine. These nutrients support heart health and cell function. The natural sugars in orange juice give you a quick energy boost too.
Some orange juices are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. These help keep your bones strong. Look for fortified versions to get these added benefits in your drinks.
Hydration and Energy
Orange juice cocktails can help you stay hydrated. The juice is mostly water, so it counts towards your daily fluid intake. This is helpful when you’re drinking alcohol, which can be dehydrating.
The natural sugars in orange juice provide quick energy. This can perk you up if you’re feeling tired. The carbs in orange juice may also help prevent hangovers by raising blood sugar levels.
For a more hydrating drink, mix orange juice with seltzer water. This cuts down on sugar while still giving you flavor and nutrients. You can also use fresh-squeezed juice for the most nutritional value.
Mixology Tips for Orange Juice Cocktails
Making great orange juice cocktails requires attention to detail and some key techniques. These tips will help you create delicious drinks at home.
Choosing the Right Orange Juice
Fresh-squeezed orange juice is best for cocktails. It has a brighter flavor than bottled juice. Pick ripe, heavy oranges for the most juice. Valencia or navel oranges work well.
Squeeze oranges just before mixing drinks. This keeps the juice fresh and flavorful. If you can’t use fresh oranges, look for high-quality, not-from-concentrate juice.
Strain fresh juice to remove pulp. This makes for smoother cocktails. You can leave some pulp if you like more texture in your drinks.
Balancing Flavors
Orange juice is sweet and acidic. Balance it with other ingredients. Add vodka or gin for a neutral base. Use rum or tequila for more flavor.
Bitter ingredients like Campari or Aperol work well with orange juice. They cut the sweetness. Sweet liqueurs like triple sec enhance the orange flavor.
Experiment with herbs and spices. Mint, basil, or cinnamon can add depth. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
Dilute strong drinks with club soda or sparkling water. This adds bubbles and balances intense flavors. Shake cocktails with ice for 20 seconds to chill and mix well.