Description
This is the orange crush recipe that will have you sipping and singing all summer long. It's made with fresh orange juice and sparkling water for a bright and fizzy summertime drink. Make it with or without alcohol so everyone can enjoy! See notes for brand suggestions and notes about gluten-free and refined sugar-free alternatives.
Ingredients
- 3 cups crushed ice (for serving)
- 1 cup (8 ounces) fresh-squeezed orange juice [from 2-3 large Valencia oranges]
- 2-3 shots (3-4.5 ounces) vodka [Adjust based on how strong you want the drink. For a gluten-free option, I recommend Tito’s or another high-quality gluten-free vodka].
- 1 shot (1.5 ounces) orange cordial/liqueur [Options: Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao or Cointreau (see notes for more details). To make this drink refined sugar-free, omit the cordial and replace it with a splash or two of maple syrup and a bit of fresh orange zest].
- 1 can orange, tangerine, or lemon/lime sparkling water [I use Spindrift, as it’s naturally flavored with real fruit juice].
- 1 cup cubed ice (for cocktail shaker)
- 1 small navel orange (for garnish) [Slice into 1/4-inch wheels, then cut into wedges for serving]
Instructions
- Divide the crushed ice evenly between two glasses, filling each about 3/4 full.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with cubed ice, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, vodka, and orange cordial/liqueur (if using). For a refined sugar-free option: Replace the orange cordial/liqueur with a splash or two of maple syrup and a bit of fresh orange zest.
- Shake well to chill and mix. Pour the mixture into the two glasses filled with crushed ice.
- Top off each glass with your choice of sparkling water (orange, tangerine, or lemon/lime).
- Gently stir the drink to combine.
- Garnish with navel orange slices or wedges. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Mocktail Option
To make this a mocktail, simply omit the vodka and orange liqueur. Replace them with additional freshly squeezed orange juice, sparkling water, and a splash of maple syrup for a refreshing, alcohol-free version.
Vodka
While many recipes call for orange or mandarin-flavored vodka, I recommend using Tito’s vodka (or another high-quality gluten-free vodka) for the best results. Pair it with a good orange cordial or liqueur for added depth of flavor.
- Gluten Sensitivity: If you have celiac disease or extreme sensitivity, you might want to confirm with the manufacturer regarding cross-contamination risks.
Orange Cordial/Liqueur
(Note: These are not refined sugar-free)
- Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao: Made with distilled alcohol from sugarcane or non-gluten grains, orange peels, and spices, this option is considered gluten-free due to its distillation process, which removes gluten proteins. However, if you have celiac disease or extreme sensitivity, it’s always best to confirm with the manufacturer regarding cross-contamination risks.
- Cointreau: A triple sec made from sugar beets and orange peels, Cointreau is also distilled, ensuring it’s gluten-free even if raw ingredients contain traces of gluten. As with Pierre Ferrand, confirm with the manufacturer if you have extreme sensitivity.
Fizz and Sweetness
Traditional orange crush recipes use Sprite for fizz and added citrus flavor. To keep this recipe refined sugar-free:
- Omit the orange liqueur and Sprite.
- Use a sparkling beverage like orange/mango, lemon, or lime-flavored Spindrift, which is naturally flavored with real fruit juice.
- Add maple syrup, 1 teaspoon at a time, for added sweetness if desired.
Refined Sugar-Free Alternatives to Orange Cordial/Liqueur
If you're looking for a refined sugar-free substitute for orange cordial/liqueur, try one of these options:
- Homemade Version: Create a blend of cognac (or another gluten-free brandy) with fresh orange zest and a natural sweetener like maple syrup. Let it infuse for a few days to mimic the flavor.
- Use Orange Juice or Zest: Incorporate freshly squeezed orange juice or zest with a natural sweetener for a lighter, refined sugar-free option.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Cocktail
