Tequila Sunrise Recipe: Easy Iconic Tequila Cocktail Classic 2026

The Tequila Sunrise is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world, loved as much for its vibrant sunrise-like color gradient as for its refreshing, balanced flavor. Built on tequila, orange juice and grenadine, it is a true bar and party classic that comes together in just five minutes.

This is an ideal drink for cocktail beginners, since it is a very simple mix that is easy to make and looks impressive. You do not need complicated spirits or special tools either, because this cocktail is built directly in the glass, with no shaker required.

The amount of orange juice can be adjusted to taste. This version uses 200 ml for a soft, fresh, easy-drinking cocktail where the alcohol is less pronounced, though bartenders often use 90 to 120 ml for a more concentrated drink with the tequila front and center and a sharper color contrast.

Ingredients for Tequila Sunrise

This recipe makes 1 cocktail.

• 100 grams of ice
• 60 ml tequila
• 90-200 ml fresh orange juice
• 30 ml grenadine
• Orange and a cocktail cherry, to garnish

How to Make Tequila Sunrise Step by Step

1. Fill the glass with ice

Start by placing 100 grams of ice in a tall glass. A highball or Collins glass works best, since the tall shape shows off the layered colors of the drink and keeps it cold for longer.

2. Add the tequila

Pour 60 ml of tequila over the ice. Using a good-quality tequila makes a real difference here, since it is the backbone of the cocktail and its flavor comes through clearly.

3. Pour in the orange juice and mix

Pour in between 90 ml and 200 ml of fresh orange juice and mix well, either by swirling the glass or stirring with a spoon. As noted above, you can adjust the amount of juice depending on the result you want.

4. Add the grenadine

Carefully pour in 30 ml of grenadine to get the perfect gradient. Pour it slowly down the inside of the glass so it sinks to the bottom and creates the signature sunrise effect instead of blending in.

5. Garnish and serve

Decorate with a slice of orange and a cocktail cherry, then serve the Tequila Sunrise freshly made. For the perfect version, choose a quality tequila, freshly squeezed orange juice and plenty of ice, and always enjoy it in moderation.

Tips for the Best Tequila Sunrise

Pick a quality tequila

Since the drink has only three components, the tequila is fully on display. A clean, smooth blanco or reposado gives the cocktail a rounded flavor without overwhelming the orange juice.

Use fresh orange juice

Freshly squeezed juice makes the cocktail taste brighter and less sugary than store-bought versions. It also blends more naturally with the grenadine, giving you that clean red-to-orange gradient.

Pour the grenadine last and slowly

The sunrise effect depends entirely on the grenadine sinking rather than stirring in. Add it at the very end, pouring gently down the side of the glass, and skip the stirring so the layers stay distinct.

30 Top Recipes I Keep Coming Back to at Home

Like a lot of home cooks, I like having a go-to lineup that covers cozy classics, dishes from around the world, and sweets that make everyone happy.

When a rich, indulgent craving hits, my picks are usually this La Viña Molten Cheesecake recipe, this elegant Original French Crème Brûlée recipe, or a decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake recipe. And whenever something fruity and comforting sounds good, this classic French Tarte Tatin recipe is the one I reach for.

Some mornings I want an easy breakfast or a lighter plate, so I'll whip up these fluffy Oatmeal and Banana Pancakes recipe, a satisfying Stuffed Sweet Potato recipe, or these fresh Eggs Stuffed with Avocado and Salmon recipe. And for a gluten-free staple to keep in the pantry, this simple Gluten-Free Rice Flour recipe is one I rely on.

For tapas nights and Mediterranean flavors, I bounce between this bold Basque Tuna with Tomato recipe, crispy Patatas Bravas Air Fryer recipe, creamy Tirokafteri Greek Dip Sauce recipe, and refreshing Burrata Salad with Tomato and Pesto recipe. This crisp Italian Vitello Tonnato recipe also comes out whenever I want to serve something a bit more special.

For filling lunches and cozy dinners, my recommendations are this comforting Meatballs in Spanish Sauce recipe, traditional Meatballs in Almond Sauce recipe, rich Italian Bolognese Sauce recipe, and creamy Chicken Croquettes in Thermomix recipe. When I'm after something heartier, I'll bake this Greek Pastitsio Pie recipe, rustic Potatoes and Squid Stew recipe, or the ultra-comforting French Boeuf Bourguignon recipe.

Anytime I'm in the mood for street food or party-style plates, I'll usually make this juicy Homemade Chicken Doner Kebab recipe, crispy Salchipapas recipe, flavorful Mexican Pork Carnitas recipe, or these crunchy Korean Hobak Jeon recipe. These easy Air Fryer Zucchini Rings recipe also work great as a laid-back appetizer or snack.

And when I'm hosting guests with drinks and a full spread, dinner often gets paired with this refreshing Original Cuban Mojito recipe, this bold Long Island Iced Tea recipe, or a pitcher of this fruity Bleeding Spanish Sangria recipe. To fill out the table, I like adding this tangy French Remoulade Sauce recipe on the side or finishing with this striking Mediterranean Black Rice with Squid recipe.

Even More Tasty Recipes to Cook for the Family

After years of testing and tweaking recipes in my own kitchen, I've come to believe the best dishes are built on simplicity, dependable techniques, and big flavor.

Every recipe in this collection is one I genuinely come back to time and time again—whether it's a fast meal just for me or something special for friends and family.

For dessert, the rich and silky Orange Chocolate Mousse Recipe is a go-to when I want something elegant yet effortless. Another sweet favorite is the caramelized Trdelnik Slavic Pastry Recipe, inspired by the famous Central European chimney cake. If you enjoy baking, knowing how to make syrup for better texture in desserts is useful, and my Inverted Sugar Recipe explains exactly how I prepare it in my own kitchen.

When something fresh and simple is what I'm after, I usually reach for the classic Italian Caprese Salad Recipe or a perfectly cooked Simple Poached Egg Recipe. For heartier comfort meals, I often point people to the satisfying Meatball Sandwich Recipe, the creamy Russian Stroganoff Beef Recipe, and the quick weeknight favorite One Pot Pasta Recipe.

Traditional dishes from around the world are another thing I love to share, including the authentic Sorropotún de Bonito Fish Stew Recipe, crispy Chilean Pumpkin Sopaipillas Recipe, and the classic Spanish Cochifrito Segovian Fried Pig Recipe.

Air fryer recipes are another category I cook often, since they save time while still delivering great texture. My go-to options include Air Fryer Pork Ribs Recipe, Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe, Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes Recipe, Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Recipe, Air Fryer Peppers Recipe, Air Fryer Mixed Sandwich Recipe, Air Fryer Toasted Bread Recipe, and Air Fryer Hard-Boiled Eggs Recipe.

And for anyone steering clear of wheat, my comforting Gluten-Free Lasagna Recipe shows that classic baked pasta can still be rich, cheesy, and completely satisfying without gluten.

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