Orange Crush Cocktail Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Delight
There's something incredibly refreshing about a cold, citrusy drink that just hits the spot, especially when it's bursting with the bright flavors of fresh oranges. That’s why I love making the Orange Crush Cocktail at home. This drink is light, crisp, and perfect for a hot summer day or even just as a pick-me-up after a long week.
The best part? It's so simple to make that you don’t need to be a professional bartender to pull it off. In this Orange Crush Cocktail Recipe, I'll show you how to whip up this vibrant drink with just a few ingredients and a handful of tools you probably already have in your kitchen.
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Why Use Fresh Juice?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is what really sets this cocktail apart. Bottled juice might be convenient, but it often has preservatives and added sugar, which can throw off the balance of flavors.
When you use fresh juice, the drink is bright, crisp, and a little tangy, making it much more refreshing. It’s that burst of real citrus that makes all the difference.
Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version?
Absolutely! If you're looking to enjoy an Orange Crush without the alcohol, you can easily turn this into a mocktail. Simply swap the vodka and triple sec with more fresh orange juice and a splash of lemonade or club soda.
You'll still get that delightful, citrusy refreshment without any of the alcohol. Perfect for kids or those who just prefer to skip the booze.
Orange Crush Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid)
- Citrus juicer (optional, but helpful)
- Measuring jigger (or a shot glass)
- Knife and cutting board (for juicing and garnish)
- Glass (highball or rocks glass)
Ingredients
- 1 fresh orange juiced
- 1 oz triple sec
- 2 oz orange-flavored vodka or regular vodka if that's what you have
- 1 splash of lemon-lime soda or club soda for a less sweet version
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice for garnish optional
Instructions
- Juice the Orange: Start by juicing a fresh orange. You’ll want about 3-4 oz of fresh juice. If you have a juicer, great! If not, just squeeze it by hand. Fresh juice is key to giving this cocktail its signature brightness.
- Add the Liquor: In a cocktail shaker, add the orange juice, triple sec, and vodka. If you don’t have a shaker, a mason jar with a lid works just as well.
- Shake It Up: Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker (or mason jar) and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. You want it nice and cold.
- Pour Over Ice: Fill a glass with ice cubes and strain the shaken mixture into the glass.
- Top It Off: Add a splash of lemon-lime soda (or club soda if you prefer a less sweet cocktail) to give it a light, fizzy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with an orange slice for a little extra flair, and enjoy immediately!
