The Tequila Sunset is a citrusy cocktail that looks like a tropical sunset with hues of pink and red. It’s the perfect summer sipper on a hot and humid day. If you’re looking for an easy cocktail to make at home, this is it.
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Why you’ll love this cocktail
- There are only three ingredients.
- It’s the perfect balance of tartness with a slightly sweet.
- It makes a beautiful presentation.
- It’s a little-known cocktail that your guests probably have never had before.
Tequila Sunset vs Sunrise
So you might be wondering what the difference between a Tequila Sunset and a Tequila Sunrise is. Both use tequila as the liquor and a splash of grenadine but the juice in a sunset is grapefruit while a sunrise uses orange.
What ingredients do you need to make a Tequila Sunset?
You need just three ingredients for a Tequila Sunset.
- Tequila – Use a Blanco or white tequila.
- Orange Juice – Pick a no-pulp variety.
- Grenadine – A pomegranate syrup.
What is grenadine?
Contrary to popular belief, grenadine is a pomegranate syrup. Many people mistakenly say it’s cherry flavored. Grenadine is non-alcoholic and can safely be used in drinks prepared for children, such as a Shirley Temple.
How do you make a Tequila Sunset drink?
While grapefruit juice is the citrus of choice in a Tequila Sunset recipe, some people prefer to use a combination of orange and pineapple juices.
While I did try both combinations, the grapefruit juice alone suited the cocktail better. The orange and pineapple combination was overly sweet.
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila and grapefruit juice. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice and pour in the grenadine syrup. It’s heavier than the juice and will sink to the bottom.
How do you serve this cocktail?
This tequila sunset recipe makes two servings. Use a rocks glass, garnished with a small grapefruit wedge.
What can I serve with tequila drinks?
Just about any appetizer will pair nicely with a Tequila Sunset or any tequila based drinks. Artichoke squares, grilled jalapeño poppers, and corn and black bean salsa dip are all favorites.
Want more tequila cocktails?
When you say tequila, people think of margaritas. But there are many other great tequila drinks such as the Tequila Sunrise, Spicy Mango Margarita, and the Bloody Maria, another brunch favorite.
Did you make this recipe? If so, please leave a 5-star review near the comment section below.
Tequila Sunset
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
Ingredients
- 2 ounces silver tequila
- 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice
- 1 -2 teaspoons grenadine
- Grapefruit wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice combine the tequila and grapefruit juice. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Fill two rocks glasses with ice. Strain mixture evenly into each glass.
- Start by adding 1 teaspoon of grenadine to each glass. If the red isn't vibrant enough, add 1 more teaspoon. Add a wedge of grapefruit as garnish on the rim of the glass.
Such a beautiful drink and the layers of flavor are awesome. The grenadine provides a lovely sweet contrast to the tartness of the grapefruit.
This tequila sunset was so good. And looked so pretty!!
I never tell people, but grapefruit is actually my favorite fruit. I don’t think it gets enough credit, so I’m so happy to see it as the main feature of this cocktail. Can’t wait to try this drink over the weekend!
I made this when my parents came over, and they were so impressed. We all loved the bright colors and the fresh fruit flavour!
This cocktail really hit the spot after a busy weekend of sightseeing. So refreshing with a lovely fruity flavor.
A tequila sunrise has been my favorite drink for a long time so I was tickled to see a cocktail for tequila sunset. This was delicious!
You had me at Tequila! Haha! I’ve had this drink before at bars but never tried it at home and it was perfect.
This is a perfect drink to enjoy AT sunset. Every sip is a delight!
I am in love with the colour of this cocktail. It looks so pretty. You were absolutely right about grapefruit juice being just the right sweetness. Loved it.