Bright, colorful, and bursting with citrusy sweetness, the Sex On The Driveway cocktail is one of those drinks that instantly lifts your spirits. It’s got all the fruity charm of a beachside sipper, with a playful name and an electric blue hue that makes it a standout at any gathering. I’ve made this drink countless times—especially during summer get-togethers—and it never fails to get people talking (and asking for the recipe).
Sex On The Driveway
Whether you’re looking to shake things up for happy hour or just want something light and fizzy to sip on the patio, this one’s a crowd-pleaser.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball glass or Mason jar
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) peach schnapps
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) blue curaçao
– 2 oz (60 ml) orange juice
– Sprite or lemon-lime soda, to top up
– Ice
– Orange slice or maraschino cherry, for garnish
Make It Ahead?
You can mix everything except the soda ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving and top with Sprite right before pouring to keep it nice and bubbly.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, peach schnapps, and blue curaçao.
- Shake well—about 10 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill your glass with fresh ice and strain the mix into it.
- Top with orange juice, then Sprite. Give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with an orange slice or cherry, and serve right away.
Tips for a Great Drink
– Use good-quality vodka for a smoother finish—this really lets the fruity flavors shine.
– Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring to keep everything crisp.
– Want that layered look? Pour the Sprite slowly over the back of a spoon to float it gently on top.
– Don’t overdo the orange juice—it’s there to balance the sweetness, not overpower it.
What It Tastes Like
This drink is light, juicy, and just the right amount of sweet. The blue curaçao brings a hint of orange peel bitterness, the schnapps adds a smooth peach flavor, and the vodka gives it a clean kick. The Sprite brightens it all up with bubbles and a little citrus zing. It’s like sipping sunshine—refreshing and a little cheeky.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Substitutions
– No peach schnapps? Try apple schnapps for a tart twist.
– Swap Sprite with ginger ale if you like a bit of spice.
– Out of blue curaçao? Raspberry liqueur gives it a different color and a berry vibe.
Seasonal Spins
Tropical Sunset: Add pineapple juice and a splash of grenadine. Pour the grenadine last for a pretty layered look.
Winter Wonderland: Use white cranberry juice and a touch of mint. Serve in a frosted glass with a mint leaf.
Autumn Breeze: Replace vodka with bourbon and use apple cider instead of orange juice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Mocktail Version
For a non-alcoholic take, mix blue raspberry syrup, lemonade, and a splash of club soda. It’s fizzy, fruity, and fun for all ages.
Storage Notes
If you’re making a batch for a party, combine everything except the soda and ice. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add soda and ice just before serving so it stays bubbly and fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail goes great with:
– Grilled meats: The sweet, citrusy drink cuts through the smokiness beautifully.
– Tropical fruit salads: Think mango, pineapple, and lime—perfect harmony.
– Spicy snacks: Jalapeño poppers or spicy tuna rolls pair well with the drink’s sweetness.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, especially when the grill’s going and friends are around. It’s simple, striking, and always a hit.
Helpful Tips from the Kitchen
– If you’re new to shaking cocktails, just remember: shake until the shaker feels icy cold. That means it’s ready.
– Blue curaçao is a citrus liqueur made with the dried peel of the Laraha fruit, a type of bitter orange from Curaçao. It’s what gives this drink its signature color and subtle orange flavor.
– Don’t skip the garnish—it adds aroma and makes the whole drink feel more special.
Common Questions
Can I make a large batch?
Yes! Just mix everything except the Sprite and ice in a pitcher. Chill, then top with soda as you serve.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use less peach schnapps, add a squeeze of lemon juice, or use club soda instead of Sprite.
What’s the best garnish?
A slice of orange or a cherry is classic. For a fun twist, try starfruit or mint.
Can I use diet soda?
Absolutely. It’ll cut down on sugar, though the flavor might be slightly different.
When’s the best time to serve it?
Anytime you want something refreshing! It’s great during the day by the pool or at night for a fun, fruity cocktail.
With its easy ingredients, eye-catching color, and sweet citrus pop, Sex On The Driveway is a drink that’s just plain fun to make and even more fun to sip. Whether you’re throwing a party or just enjoying a quiet evening, it’s a drink that brings a little extra sparkle to the moment.
