Tequila Sunset Recipe: How to Make it

A tequila sunset is a cocktail that blends the flavours of orange and pineapple juice with tequila, often including lime and orange liqueur as well. This drink can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger cocktail menu.

Tequila sunsets are delicious, refreshing, and perfect for unwinding after a long day or gearing up for an evening out. The charm of this drink lies in its balance—it’s sweet, but not overly so, with a hint of spice from the tequila. If you’re after a simple cocktail to make at home, this is the one!

This classic gained popularity across the United States, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that bartenders began experimenting with variations. They introduced red food colouring to grenadine syrup for a more vibrant orange hue and swapped lemon slices for orange slices as a garnish. The result was a cocktail resembling the hues of a sunset, giving it the name “tequila sunset.”

For the best results, we recommend using freshly squeezed orange juice (or pasteurised if fresh isn’t available). This ensures your cocktail remains free of added sugars and artificial colours or flavours often found in store-bought brands. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a sprig of mint for an extra touch.

Ingredients to Make a Tequila Sunset Cocktail

How to Prepare a Great Tequila Sunset Recipe

Our Alto’s Tequila Sunset Recipe

Discover how to craft our unique twist on this classic cocktail: the Sunset Paloma.

What is the difference between Tequila Sunrise and Tequila Sunset?

Are There Tips to Improve this Tequila Sunset?

To make it even more delicious, try these tips!

First, determine the quality of the tequila you’re using. If it’s a premium brand, you can skip the triple sec. However, if the tequila is not as high quality, adding a bit of triple sec can help balance the flavours.

Second, when using fresh peels or fruit slices, cut them into small pieces so they fit neatly in the glass. Avoid letting them float around awkwardly like little boats—it’s not the best look.

Thirdly, for an elegant touch (and to truly impress your guests), consider adding cherry blossoms or mint leaves to the drink. This will elevate its appearance, especially when served in clear glasses.

Don’t hold back on the orange juice—it’s a key ingredient that gives this cocktail its distinct and delicious character. Feel free to use a little more than you normally would for the best flavour.

Go all out with your garnish! Adding a slice of orange or lime to each glass will make your guests feel extra special as they enjoy their drinks.

A Frozen Tequila Sunset with Pineapple

Preparing a Frozen Tequila Sunset Cocktail is simple and quick.

Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice, then add the tequila, pineapple juice, and grenadine. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds to combine the ingredients.

Next, strain the mixture into two glasses filled with ice cubes using a cocktail strainer. For an extra burst of flavour, squeeze some additional lemon juice into each glass. Finally, garnish with an orange slice and serve.

Olmeca Altos to Improve the Tequila Sunset Recipe

The Tequila Sunset is a beloved Mexican cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades, made with tequila, orange liqueur, and grenadine syrup. But have you ever considered enhancing this classic drink?

If you love the Tequila Sunset, we’ve got a new twist for you: try it with Olmeca Altos tequila! The smoothness of Olmeca Altos brings an added dimension of flavour to this timeless cocktail, elevating it to new heights.

So, the next time you’re crafting a Tequila Sunset, make it unforgettable by choosing Olmeca Altos. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!