There’s something about an Orange Cadillac that feels like pure sunshine in a glass. It’s vibrant, citrusy, and just sweet enough to keep you coming back for another sip. Whether you’re lounging on a warm afternoon or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this cocktail is always a crowd-pleaser. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress—so let me walk you through how to whip up the perfect one at home.
Orange Cadillac
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make one refreshing Orange Cadillac:
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) orange liqueur (like Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 2 oz (60 ml) fresh orange juice (freshly squeezed is worth it!)
- 1 oz (30 ml) tequila (silver or reposado both work great)
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or swap for agave syrup if you prefer)
- Ice (enough to fill your shaker and glass)
- Orange slice (for garnish)
Prep Tip: Fresh orange juice makes all the difference. If you’ve got a couple of oranges on hand, take the extra minute to squeeze them—it’s totally worth it.
How to Make It
This cocktail is super simple to make, and it comes together in just a few steps:
- Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it about halfway with ice.
- Pour in 1.5 oz (45 ml) orange liqueur, 2 oz (60 ml) fresh orange juice, 1 oz (30 ml) tequila, and 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup.
- Shake it all up! Give it a good 10-15 seconds until the shaker feels cold to the touch.
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice and strain the cocktail over it.
- Finish it off with a bright orange slice for garnish.
Pro Tip: Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes beforehand. It keeps your drink colder, longer!
What It Tastes Like
The Orange Cadillac is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The orange liqueur and juice bring a bold citrus flavor, the tequila adds a touch of warmth, and the simple syrup ties it all together. It’s light, refreshing, and just the right amount of indulgent. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, but honestly, it’s great year-round.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this drink with food that complements its bright, citrusy profile. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Chicken: The zestiness of the cocktail cuts through the smoky, savory flavors of grilled chicken beautifully.
- Seafood: Think shrimp skewers, fish tacos, or even a light ceviche. The citrus notes are a natural match.
- Spicy Snacks: Jalapeño poppers, spicy wings, or even chips with a hot salsa—this drink’s sweetness balances out the heat perfectly.
Make-Ahead Tips & Storage
- Make-ahead: Mix the orange juice, tequila, and simple syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just shake it with the orange liqueur and ice.
- Storage: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store the pre-mixed base (without ice) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
Variations
Looking to switch things up? Here are some fun twists on the classic Orange Cadillac:
Cadillac Margarita
- Swap the orange juice for lime juice, and use Grand Marnier as your orange liqueur. Serve in a salted-rim glass for a margarita-style upgrade.
Blood Orange Cadillac
- Replace regular orange juice with blood orange juice for a deeper, slightly tangy flavor and a gorgeous ruby-red hue.
Spicy Orange Cadillac
- Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the shaker before mixing. Garnish with a jalapeño slice for a kick of heat.
Virgin Orange Cadillac
- Skip the tequila and orange liqueur. Instead, mix fresh orange juice with orange-flavored sparkling water and a touch of honey for a non-alcoholic option that’s just as refreshing.
Helpful Tips
- Fresh is best: Freshly squeezed orange juice takes this cocktail from good to amazing.
- Experiment with tequila: A silver tequila gives a clean, crisp flavor, while a reposado adds a touch of smokiness.
- Don’t skimp on the garnish: That orange slice isn’t just for looks—it adds a burst of citrus aroma every time you take a sip.
Common Questions
What if I don’t have orange liqueur?
No problem! You can use another citrus liqueur like Grand Marnier or even triple sec.
Can I make this less sweet?
Absolutely. Just cut back on the simple syrup or swap it for a natural sweetener like agave.
What’s the best glass for serving this cocktail?
A highball glass works best, but a rocks glass is a solid backup.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by however many servings you need and mix everything (except the ice) in a large pitcher. Chill it in the fridge and pour over ice when serving.
What pairs well with this drink?
Grilled meats, seafood, and spicy snacks all work beautifully with the citrusy flavors.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the fun variations, the Orange Cadillac is a cocktail worth savoring. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for any occasion. Cheers to your next favorite drink!
