A Cassis Orange is one of those effortlessly elegant drinks that looks beautiful in the glass and tastes like sunshine in a sip. With its vibrant orange hue swirled with deep purple, it’s fruity, refreshing, and just the right balance of sweet and tart. This one’s been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio-it’s simple to make, doesn’t require fancy gear, and always gets compliments.
Cassis Orange
What You’ll Need
Servings: 1 drink
Prep time: 5 minutes
Glass: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) Crème de Cassis (blackcurrant liqueur)
– 3 oz (90 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
– Ice cubes
– Orange slice or zest, for garnish
Method
- Grab your favorite highball glass and fill it about halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour in 1 oz (30 ml) of Crème de Cassis. It’ll settle at the bottom and give that lovely layered look.
- Slowly top with 3 oz (90 ml) of fresh orange juice. Pour gently to keep those colors distinct, or stir if you prefer a uniform mix.
- Give it a light stir if you’d like the flavors more blended. Garnish with a slice of orange or a little twist of zest for a pop of aroma.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh orange juice-it really makes a difference. Bottled juice can taste flat or overly sweet.
– If you like bubbles, add a splash of sparkling water at the end. It lifts the drink and makes it extra refreshing.
– Choose a good-quality Crème de Cassis. Look for brands from Burgundy, France-they tend to be richer and less syrupy.
Make-Ahead Notes
Planning for a party? You can mix the orange juice and Crème de Cassis in a pitcher ahead of time (up to a few hours early). Just keep it chilled in the fridge and add ice right before serving. If you’re layering for visual effect, serve each glass individually.
Substitutions
– No Crème de Cassis? Try raspberry liqueur or blackcurrant syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
– Swap orange juice with blood orange juice for a deeper flavor and a vibrant color twist.
– If you like it less sweet, use less liqueur or mix in a bit more citrus juice.
What It Tastes Like
This cocktail is a lovely mix of tart citrus and rich berry. The orange juice brings brightness and zing, while the Crème de Cassis adds a sweet, almost jammy depth. It’s smooth, light, and incredibly easy to sip. I’ve made this drink countless times-here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: don’t overdo the liqueur. It’s tempting, but a little goes a long way.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Cassis Orange with light bites or summery mains. Some favorites:
Cheese Platter
The sweetness cuts through creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese beautifully.
Grilled Chicken
Especially good if the chicken’s been marinated in herbs and citrus-this drink plays nicely with those flavors.
Chocolate Desserts
Try it with dark chocolate mousse or brownies. The blackcurrant notes and chocolate are a dreamy combo.
Variations to Try
Cassis Orange Spritz
– Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, bubbly take.
Bloody Cassis Orange
– Use blood orange juice instead of regular orange juice for a deeper, tangy version.
Berry Orange Dream
– Swap Crème de Cassis with raspberry liqueur for a twist on the berry flavor.
Virgin Cassis Orange
– Replace the liqueur with blackcurrant syrup or cordial. Still fruity, still gorgeous, and perfect for anyone skipping alcohol.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled juice?
You can, but fresh juice brings much more flavor. If you’re using bottled, go for one without added sugars or concentrate.
What’s the best orange to use?
Valencia or navel oranges are great-they’re juicy and have the right balance of sweet and tart.
Can I make a pitcher for a party?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients based on how many servings you need. Mix it all in a large pitcher, keep it chilled, and add ice right before serving.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for Crème de Cassis?
Yes-use blackcurrant syrup or cordial. It gives you that rich berry flavor without the alcohol.
How can I dress it up?
Garnish with an orange slice, a sprig of mint, or even a skewer of fresh berries. It makes the drink feel extra special.
What if I don’t like sweet drinks?
Just reduce the amount of Crème de Cassis or choose a more tart variety of orange. You can also add a splash of club soda to cut the sweetness.
This cocktail is simple, stunning, and always a hit-whether you’re relaxing solo or hosting friends. Try it once, and it might just become your signature summer sipper too.
