I first made this Summer Sunset Cocktail during a backyard BBQ with my closest friends. We had a simple setup—no fancy bar gear, just a few good bottles, a pitcher, and a warm summer breeze.
I wanted something fruity, colourful, and easy to prepare in a large batch. This drink is delivered! It looked just like a Florida sunset in a glass and tasted even better than it looked.
This recipe is perfect for lazy afternoons, patio parties, or your 4th of July celebration. It’s a quick mix of raspberry vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, cranberry juice, and lemonade.
The layers blend into a sweet, tart, and juicy summer drink that’s as refreshing as it is fun to serve.
Contents
What is a Summer Sunset Cocktail?
The Summer Sunset Cocktail is a colorful layered drink made with raspberry vodka, peach schnapps, citrus juices, and cranberry juice.
It’s called a “sunset” because of how the juices settle and create a gradient, just like a real sunset. It’s one of my go-to summer cocktail ideas when I want something fruity, cold, and easy.
How to Make a Summer Sunset Cocktail Recipe?
Recipe Overview
A fruity, refreshing Summer Sunset Cocktail recipe that’s easy to mix, perfect for parties, and doesn’t need any fancy equipment.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Cocktails / Drinks
- Difficulty: Easy
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 210 kcal (approx.)
- Serving Size: 8 oz. glass
Equipment You’ll Need
- Highball glass
- Cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid)
- Strainer
- Measuring jigger
- Pitcher (if making for a crowd)
- Long spoon or skewer for gentle mixing
Ingredients
- 1 oz. raspberry vodka
- 1 oz. peach schnapps
- 2 oz. orange juice
- 2 oz. cranberry juice
- 2 oz. cold lemonade
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice and maraschino cherry (for garnish)
- Small American flag toothpicks (optional – festive touch!)
Ingredient Notes
- Raspberry Vodka: Brings a fruity kick. You can use plain vodka and muddle a few raspberries if you don’t have flavored vodka.
- Peach Schnapps: Adds a juicy, sweet layer that pairs perfectly with citrus.
- Orange Juice & Lemonade: These give that citrus punch and help build the “sunset” effect.
- Cranberry Juice: For color and tartness—it slowly sinks to the bottom creating that red “sun” look.
- Ice Cubes: Keeps the drink chilled and helps with layering the ingredients.
Instructions
1. Fill your glass with ice to the top. This helps separate the layers.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine raspberry vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and lemonade. Give it a good shake for about 10 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
4. Slowly pour the cranberry juice down the inside edge of the glass. It should settle at the bottom and give that “sunset” effect.
5. Garnish with a slice of orange, a cherry, and a tiny American flag if you’re serving it for the 4th of July!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 22g
- Alcohol: ~14% ABV (estimate depending on brands used)
Tips and Variations
✔ Make a pitcher: Want to serve a group? Multiply everything by 6 and build in a large pitcher. Add the cranberry juice last so it settles to the bottom.
✔ Switch the vodka: Try citrus vodka, pineapple vodka, or even coconut rum for a tropical twist.
✔ Lemon-lime soda swap: Not a fan of lemonade? Use lemon-lime soda for extra fizz.
✔ Kid-friendly version: Mix orange juice, cranberry juice, and lemon-lime soda for a no-alcohol mocktail with the same pretty layers.
Storing Tips
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you’re prepping ahead for a party:
- Mix the raspberry vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and lemonade together in a pitcher.
- Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Pour over ice and add cranberry juice just before serving to keep the “sunset” effect.
FAQs
Can I Make This Summer Sunset Cocktail Without Alcohol?
Yes! Just skip the vodka and schnapps, and mix orange juice, cranberry juice, and lemonade or lemon-lime soda.
What’s The Best Glass To Serve A Sunset Cocktail In?
A highball glass or tall tumbler works best. You Want To See Those Beautiful Layers.
Can I Use A Different Juice Instead Of Cranberry?
Sure! Pomegranate juice or cherry juice will work if you want that deep red color.
Which Cocktail is Best for Summer?
The best cocktail for summer is one that’s cold, colorful, and easy to make—just like this Summer Sunset Cocktail. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or relaxing by the pool, this one hits all the right notes.
Try the Summer Sunset Cocktail Today!
This Summer Sunset Cocktail is one of my favorites for a reason—it’s quick, it’s tasty, and it looks like you put in way more effort than you actually did.
If you’re planning your next cookout or just want a refreshing sunset drink to wind down with, this is the one.
If you try it, let me know how it turned out! Share a pic, leave a comment, or ask a question—I love hearing from you.
Summer Sunset Cocktail
Equipment
- Highball glass
- Cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid)
- Strainer
- Measuring jigger
- Pitcher (if making for a crowd)
- Long spoon or skewer for gentle mixing
Ingredients
- 1 oz. raspberry vodka
- 1 oz. peach schnapps
- 2 oz. orange juice
- 2 oz. cranberry juice
- 2 oz. cold lemonade
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice and maraschino cherry for garnish
- Small American flag toothpicks optional – festive touch!
Instructions
- Fill your glass with ice to the top. This helps separate the layers.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine raspberry vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and lemonade. Give it a good shake for about 10 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
- Slowly pour the cranberry juice down the inside edge of the glass. It should settle at the bottom and give that “sunset” effect.
- Garnish with a slice of orange, a cherry, and a tiny American flag if you’re serving it for the 4th of July!
Welcome to alljuicecorner.com, your go-to resource for all things juice! I’m Marina, the passionate juice enthusiast and health advocate behind this vibrant community. My journey into the world of juicing began five years ago, sparked by a desire to embrace a healthier lifestyle and explore the nutritional power of fruits and vegetables. I spent countless hours researching, experimenting with different combinations, and understanding the science behind each sip.
I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the juice table. My mission is simple: to share the joy and health benefits of juicing with as many people as possible. Through “alljuicecorner.com,” I aim to demystify the world of juicing, offering easy-to-follow recipes, tips on selecting the right produce, and insights into the health benefits of various ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned juicer or just starting, this blog is designed to be your companion on this delicious journey.