Orange Crush Cocktail Drink

Orange Crush

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano

If you’re craving a summer drink, our Orange Crush Cocktail recipe has all the ingredients to make your day brighter! It’s a cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to drink.

Orange Crush Recipe

Try our easy-to-make Orange Crush Cocktail recipe! This refreshing cocktail is made with vodka, fresh orange juice, triple sec, and a splash of soda.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

1 minute

Servings:

1

Calories:

191 kl

Ingredients

  • 1 oz Vodka
  • 3 oz fresh orange juice
  • 1 oz Triple Sec
  • Splash of lemon-lime soda
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange slice, for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Highball Glass
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Start by filling your highball glass with ice cubes.
  • Add Vodka: Pour 1 oz Vodka over the ice.
  • Add Orange Juice: Measure and pour 3 oz fresh orange juice into the glass.
  • Add Triple Sec: Incorporate 1 oz Triple Sec to the mix.
  • Add Soda: Top it off with a splash of lemon-lime soda.
  • Stir Gently: Stir the ingredients gently using a bar spoon.
  • Garnish: Garnish the drink with an orange slice.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Vodka: When I don't have vodka, I use gin; it adds a botanical flavor that complements the citrusy notes well.
  • Triple Sec: I've substituted triple sec with Cointreau or Grand Marnier; both bring a unique twist to the cocktail.
  • Orange Juice: In a pinch, I've used store-bought orange juice; it's convenient and still tasty.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: Multiply all the ingredients by 8 for a pitcher that serves 8. So, 8 oz of vodka, 24 oz of orange juice, 8 oz of triple sec, and 8 splashes of soda.
  • Mix: Combine vodka, orange juice, and triple sec in a large pitcher and stir well.
  • Serve: Pour into ice-filled highball glasses, add some lemon-lime soda,  garnish, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Vodka Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic vodka substitute available in the market.
  • Triple Sec Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic triple sec or orange-flavored syrup.
  • Proceed As Usual: Replace the alcoholic ingredients with non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version.

Making it Vegan:

This cocktail is inherently vegan. Ensure that any store-bought orange juice is animal byproducts-free, and you're good to go!

Nutrition Facts

Calories
191
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0.3
g
0
%
Saturated Fat
 
0.1
g
1
%
Sodium
 
4
mg
0
%
Carbohydrates
 
18
g
6
%
Fiber
 
0.2
g
1
%
Sugar
 
16
g
18
%
Potassium
 
179
mg
5
%
Protein
 
1
g
2
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0.04
g
Vitamin A
 
170
IU
3
%
Vitamin C
 
43
mg
52
%
Calcium
 
10
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.2
mg
1
%

 

Orange Crush Cocktail Drink

Orange Crush Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
Jump to Video
Try our easy-to-make Orange Crush Cocktail recipe! This refreshing cocktail is made with vodka, fresh orange juice, triple sec, and a splash of soda.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 191

Ingredients
 

  • 1 oz Vodka
  • 3 oz fresh orange juice
  • 1 oz Triple Sec
  • Splash of lemon-lime soda
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange slice - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Highball Glass
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Start by filling your highball glass with ice cubes.
  • Add Vodka: Pour 1 oz Vodka over the ice.
  • Add Orange Juice: Measure and pour 3 oz fresh orange juice into the glass.
  • Add Triple Sec: Incorporate 1 oz Triple Sec to the mix.
  • Add Soda: Top it off with a splash of lemon-lime soda.
  • Stir Gently: Stir the ingredients gently using a bar spoon.
  • Garnish: Garnish the drink with an orange slice.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Vodka: When I don't have vodka, I use gin; it adds a botanical flavor that complements the citrusy notes well.
  • Triple Sec: I've substituted triple sec with Cointreau or Grand Marnier; both bring a unique twist to the cocktail.
  • Orange Juice: In a pinch, I've used store-bought orange juice; it's convenient and still tasty.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: Multiply all the ingredients by 8 for a pitcher that serves 8. So, 8 oz of vodka, 24 oz of orange juice, 8 oz of triple sec, and 8 splashes of soda.
  • Mix: Combine vodka, orange juice, and triple sec in a large pitcher and stir well.
  • Serve: Pour into ice-filled highball glasses, add some lemon-lime soda,  garnish, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Vodka Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic vodka substitute available in the market.
  • Triple Sec Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic triple sec or orange-flavored syrup.
  • Proceed As Usual: Replace the alcoholic ingredients with non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version.

Making it Vegan:

This cocktail is inherently vegan. Ensure that any store-bought orange juice is animal byproducts-free, and you're good to go!

What is an Orange Crush Cocktail?

An Orange Crush Cocktail is a blend of vodka, fresh orange juice, triple sec, and a splash of soda. With its refreshing and zesty flavor profile, this cocktail is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a lively and delicious drink. The name “Orange Crush” aptly reflects the bursting orange flavor present in every sip. 

A side shot of an Orange Crush in a highball glass on a wooden coaster placed on a table surrounded by two oranges and a shaker.

What is an Orange Crush Cocktail made of – The ingredients

The recipe for an Orange Crush includes these ingredients:

  • Vodka: Provides the base spirit for the cocktail, adding a clean and clear alcoholic element.
  • Fresh Orange Juice: Infuses the cocktail with a sweet and tangy flavor, enhancing its refreshing quality.
  • Triple Sec: Introduces a sweet and citrusy element, complementing the orange juice and adding depth to the cocktail.
  • Lemon-lime Soda: Offers a fizzy component, elevating the texture and adding a zesty kick.
  • Ice Cubes: Chills the cocktail, ensuring it’s served refreshingly cold.
  • Orange Slice (for garnish): Enhances presentation and adds orange flavor.

Vodka, triple sec, fresh orange juice, lemon-lime soda and two oranges laid out on a white bar table

How do you make an Orange Crush Cocktail?

Our tutorial will show you how to prepare an Orange Crush:

1
<p>Fill your highball glass with ice cubes to chill the cocktail.</p>

Fill your highball glass with ice cubes to chill the cocktail.

2
<p>Measure and pour 1 oz of vodka over the ice, serving as the alcoholic base for the cocktail.</p>

Measure and pour 1 oz of vodka over the ice, serving as the alcoholic base for the cocktail.

3
<p>Pour 3 oz of fresh orange juice into the glass, infusing the cocktail with a sweet and tangy flavor.</p>

Pour 3 oz of fresh orange juice into the glass, infusing the cocktail with a sweet and tangy flavor.

4
<p>Add 1 oz of Triple Sec to the mix, introducing a sweet and citrusy element to the drink.</p>

Add 1 oz of Triple Sec to the mix, introducing a sweet and citrusy element to the drink.

5
<p>Finish by adding a splash of lemon-lime soda to the glass, giving the cocktail a fizzy and zesty kick.</p>

Finish by adding a splash of lemon-lime soda to the glass, giving the cocktail a fizzy and zesty kick.

6
<p>Use a bar spoon to gently stir the ingredients together, blending the flavors while maintaining the carbonation of the soda.</p>

Use a bar spoon to gently stir the ingredients together, blending the flavors while maintaining the carbonation of the soda.

7
<p>Place an orange slice on the rim of the glass or float it on top for an enhanced presentation and an extra burst of orange flavor.</p>

Place an orange slice on the rim of the glass or float it on top for an enhanced presentation and an extra burst of orange flavor.

Orange Crush Cocktail Can

Cutwater Spirits and Monaco Cocktails are great options for pre-mixed Orange Crush Cocktails. Cutwater Spirits delivers a canned Orange Crush renowned for its well-balanced flavor profile. It offers just the right blend of sweetness and citrus, making it a solid choice for those who enjoy the convenience of ready-to-drink options. On the other hand, Monaco Cocktails has a bold and flavourful Orange Crush, appealing to those who like their drink to have a bit more kick. It’s the kind of pre-made cocktail that keeps the boldness of flavors strong. Cutwater Spirits earns the top spot between the two for its balance and taste, resembling the experience of sipping on a freshly made Orange Crush Cocktail. 

Orange Crush Cocktail with Rum

An Orange Crush Cocktail with rum is a variant of the classic Orange Crush Cocktail, substituting vodka with rum as the base spirit. This alteration introduces a distinct sweetness and smoothness to the beverage, contrasting with the citrusy notes of the orange juice and triple sec. Including rum can offer a tropical and warm flavor profile to the drink.

An Orange Crush, shot from above, in a highball glass on a white marmol table surrounded by Vodka, triple sec, fresh orange juice, lemon-lime soda and two oranges

Variations

Considering other possibilities? Here are a few that we highly recommend:

  • Tequila Orange Crush: This incorporates tequila instead of the traditional vodka, infusing the beverage with a bold, earthy flavor that complements the bright citrus of orange. I really enjoy how the tequila’s robustness pairs with the fresh orange; it adds a unique twist that stands out in a sea of typical citrus blends.
  • Cranberry Orange Crush: This adds cranberry juice, which offers a tart and sweet balance to the orange’s natural zest. The cranberry’s sharpness makes it a refreshing choice, perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon. I appreciate this combination for its vibrant color and the way it plays up the sweet and tart flavors, making every sip lively and enjoyable.
  • Rose Orange Crush: This includes a splash of rosé wine, lending a sophisticated touch with its floral and fruity notes. Additionally, the inclusion of rose petals can enhance the aroma, turning a simple sip into a more decadent experience. The rosé elevates the freshness of the orange, making it ideal for gatherings or a quiet evening in.

An Orange Crush, shot from above, in a highball glass on a wooden coaster placed on a table surrounded by two oranges and an orange napkin.

History and Origins

The Orange Crush originated in the Ocean City, Maryland, area in the 1990s. A local restaurant owner, Harborside Bar & Grill, claims to have concocted the first Orange Crush. The creation aimed to capture the essence of summer with its refreshing and citrusy flavors, and it quickly became a hit among locals and tourists alike. The cocktail’s simplicity and great taste have contributed to its enduring popularity and have since spread to bars and restaurants across the United States.

 

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FAQ

How many calories are in an Orange Crush Cocktail?
It typically contains around 180 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
How strong is an Orange Crush Cocktail?
The strength can vary, but it usually has an ABV (Alcohol By Volume) of around 10% and is 20 proof, depending on the ratio of the ingredients.
What alcohol is used in an Orange Crush Cocktail?
Vodka is the primary alcohol, providing a clear and clean alcoholic base.
In which glass is an Orange Crush Cocktail served?
It's typically served in a highball glass.
What does an Orange Crush Cocktail taste like?
It tastes sweet and citrusy with a refreshing and slightly fizzy finish, thanks to the orange juice and lemon-lime soda.
What is the ratio of ingredients in an Orange Crush Cocktail?
The typical ratio is 1 oz of vodka, 3 oz of orange juice, 1 oz of triple sec, and a splash of lemon-lime soda.
How is an Orange Crush Cocktail served regarding ice and presentation?
It's usually served over ice and can be garnished with an orange slice for presentation.

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