📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Tequila
Alcohol 14%
Calories 250 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 1g
Carbohydrates 28g
Prep time 5 minutes
Imagine the perfect end to a warm day, with a drink that’s as colorful as a sunset and as lively as a Mexican fiesta. The Mexican Sunset cocktail is a sweet, fruity concoction with a punch of citrus and a tequila foundation that tells a story in every sip. Join us as we explore the vibrant world of this beloved cocktail, from its rich history to the dance of flavors on your palate, and learn how to bring this liquid sunset into your own glass. ⬇️
History
The Mexican Sunset cocktail is a relatively modern addition to the bar scene, originating from the love for tequila-based drinks. It became popular for its vibrant colors that mimic the shades of a sunset over the Mexican horizon. This drink not only captures the beauty of a setting sun but also the spirit of Mexican culture and celebrations.
- The name “Mexican Sunset” pays homage to the breath-taking sunsets seen across Mexico’s coasts.
- It’s a twist on traditional tequila cocktails, adding a visual flair that has made it a favorite for themed parties.
- The cocktail’s popularity has spread worldwide, symbolizing a festive Mexican experience in a glass.
The taste of a Mexican Sunset?
A Mexican Sunset is a symphony of flavors, where sweet meets sour in a dance of delight. The blend of tequila, orange juice, and grenadine creates a tantalizing taste experience that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
I find the Mexican Sunset to be an escape in a glass, with its layers of flavor transporting me straight to the festive streets of Mexico.
Interesting facts about Mexican Sunset
- The gradient of colors in the drink is achieved by carefully pouring the grenadine to create a “sunset” effect.
- It’s often garnished with an orange slice or cherry, adding to the visual impact and flavor.
- A Mexican Sunset can be made into a slushy for a frozen treat on hot days.
Ingredients 📃
- Tequila: 1.5 oz (45ml)
- Orange juice: 3 oz (90ml)
- Grenadine: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Ice cubes: As needed
- Orange slice and cherry: For garnish
Highball glass is the ideal vessel for a Mexican Sunset; its tall stature showcases the drink’s beautiful color gradient. Alternatively, a hurricane glass also works well and adds a touch of tropical elegance.
Recipe. How to make Mexican Sunset 🍹
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour 1.5 oz (45ml) tequila and 3 oz (90ml) orange juice into the shaker and shake well.
- Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Slowly pour 0.5 oz (15ml) grenadine into the glass so it settles at the bottom, creating a layered effect.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
While the Mexican Sunset is a treat, it’s good to remember it’s also a sweet drink. To make a healthier version, one could swap out the grenadine for a natural pomegranate syrup, which cuts down on sugar without compromising the color. Tequila is gluten-free, but always be sure to drink responsibly!
Food Pairings
A perfect pairing elevates both the drink and the dish to new heights. Here are some foods that harmonize beautifully with the Mexican Sunset’s vibrant flavors.
Grilled Chicken Tacos
The smoky and spicy flavors of grilled chicken tacos are a match made in heaven with the sweet and citrusy notes of a Mexican Sunset.
Shrimp Ceviche
The refreshing and zesty taste of shrimp ceviche complements the fruity sweetness of the cocktail, creating a balance that is sure to delight.
Churros
Dipping a warm, cinnamon-sugar churro into a cool Mexican Sunset is like watching the day’s last light dip below the horizon—pure bliss.
I absolutely adore the vibrant zest and subtle sweetness that a Mexican Sunset brings to my taste buds. It’s like a fiesta in a glass!
🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
Receive the freshest cocktail recipes and bar trends directly in your inbox.
Bartender Advice
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cool and refreshing.
- When pouring the grenadine, do it slowly over the back of a spoon for a perfect gradient effect.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for a brighter flavor that can’t be beaten by store-bought.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Mexican Sunset, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Mexican Sunset
- Tequila: Substitute with mezcal for a smokier flavor profile.
- Orange juice: Try mango juice for a tropical twist.
- Grenadine: Use blue curaçao for a “Tequila Sunrise” effect.
Mexican Sunset Variations
Spicy Sunset
- Ingredients: Add a slice of jalapeño to the original ingredients.
- Recipe: Muddle the jalapeño in the shaker before adding the other ingredients for a spicy kick.
Tropical Sunset
- Ingredients: Mix in coconut cream with the original ingredients.
- Recipe: Blend all ingredients with ice for a creamy, tropical version.
Frozen Sunset
- Ingredients: Same as original, but served frozen.
- Recipe: Combine all ingredients in a blender with ice and blend until smooth.
For those who prefer their sunsets alcohol-free, a Virgin Mexican Sunset swaps out tequila for sparkling water or lemon-lime soda. Just mix with orange juice and grenadine, and you’ve got a refreshing mocktail that’s perfect for any sunset.
Q&A
Can the Mexican Sunset be made in large batches?
Absolutely! Mix everything except the grenadine and ice in a large pitcher. When serving, add ice to glasses and pour over the grenadine to create the sunset effect.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Mexican Sunset?
Yes, indeed! Replace the tequila with sparkling water or a clear soda to keep the refreshing flavors without the alcohol kick.
How do I achieve the perfect color layering in my Mexican Sunset?
The trick is to pour the grenadine slowly over the back of a spoon so it gently sinks and creates a gradient.
What’s the best type of tequila to use for a Mexican Sunset?
A blanco or silver tequila is ideal for its clean, crisp flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.
Are there any other garnishes I can use besides orange slices and cherries?
Sure! Try a lime wheel or a sprig of mint for a fresh twist. It’s all about adding a pop of color and a hint of extra flavor.
Can I use bottled orange juice for my Mexican Sunset?
You can, but fresh is best. Bottled juice often has added sugars and preservatives that can alter the taste of your cocktail.
