A bright, citrusy cocktail with just the right touch of sweetness, the Orange Blossom is a timeless classic. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re mixing drinks for brunch, a summer gathering, or just winding down after a long day, this cocktail is a simple pleasure worth savoring.
Orange Blossom
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it—freshly squeezed orange juice makes all the difference. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness, so take the extra minute to squeeze your own. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) gin
- 1.5 oz (45ml) fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp (5ml) sweet vermouth
- Ice
- Orange slice, for garnish
Glass choice: A cocktail glass works best to highlight the drink’s aroma, but if you’re feeling more casual, a highball glass does the trick too.
How to Make an Orange Blossom
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add gin, fresh orange juice, and sweet vermouth.
- Shake well until the mixture is nice and chilled—about 10–15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with an orange slice, and enjoy!
Tip: If you like a slightly drier cocktail, cut back on the vermouth or add a splash of soda water for some fizz.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make it ahead: You can mix the gin, orange juice, and vermouth a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shake with ice before serving.
- Leftovers? This drink is best fresh, but if you must store it, keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with food, especially brunch dishes, spicy appetizers, or light desserts.
Brunch Favorites
- French toast – The citrus cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
- Eggs Benedict – The rich hollandaise sauce balances the bright, zesty flavors.
Spicy Snacks
- Buffalo wings – The drink’s sweetness helps cool the heat.
- Jalapeño poppers – A fun contrast between spicy and citrusy.
Light Desserts
- Lemon sorbet – Refreshing and zesty, just like the cocktail.
- Fruit tart – The orange notes play well with fresh berries.
Want to Switch Things Up?
Try these easy swaps to put a new spin on your Orange Blossom:
- Swap the gin for vodka if you want a smoother, less botanical taste.
- Use blood orange juice for a deeper, slightly tart flavor.
- Replace sweet vermouth with triple sec for an extra citrusy kick.
Fun Variations
Orange Blossom No. 2
A slightly more complex version with a hint of lemon.
- 1.5 oz gin
- 1 oz orange juice
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Shake with ice, strain, and garnish with a lemon twist.
Modern Blossom
A floral, lighter take on the classic.
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1.5 oz orange juice
- 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur
- Shake with ice, strain into a chilled glass.
Sunrise Blossom
A tequila-based twist with a beautiful layered effect.
- 1.5 oz tequila
- 1.5 oz orange juice
- 0.5 oz grenadine
- Pour grenadine into the glass last to create a “sunrise” look.
Non-alcoholic option: Mix fresh orange juice with a splash of soda and a touch of grenadine for a Virgin Orange Blossom—a perfect mocktail for all ages!
Helpful Bartender Tips
- Always use fresh orange juice—it makes a world of difference.
- Want a little extra depth? Add a dash of orange bitters.
- Chill your glass before serving to keep the drink crisp and refreshing.
- Hosting a party? You can batch-mix this cocktail in advance—just stir, don’t shake, until ready to serve.
Q&A
Can I use bottled orange juice?
You can, but fresh is way better. Think of it like fresh vs. frozen pizza—both work, but one is just so much better.
Is this cocktail strong?
Not really! It’s more on the smooth and citrusy side—think of it like a gentle afternoon breeze rather than a gusty wind.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just mix the ingredients in a large pitcher (without ice), then shake individual servings as needed.
What’s the best time to enjoy an Orange Blossom?
Brunch is a perfect match, but honestly, it’s great anytime you want something light and refreshing.
How can I make it look extra fancy?
Garnish with a twist of orange peel or a fancy cocktail pick—it’ll instantly upgrade your drink.
The Orange Blossom is one of those cocktails that feels like a little sip of sunshine. It’s easy to make, incredibly refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the fun variations, you really can’t go wrong. Cheers! 🍊
