Cucumber Sunrise Cocktail Recipe
Cucumber Sunrise Nutrition Facts
Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol %:20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Cucumber Sunrise is a refreshing cocktail perfect for those who appreciate a balance of sweet and sour flavors. It's a modern cocktail, not tied to any particular era or bartender, but it's been gaining popularity in recent years due to its unique flavor profile and refreshing nature. Ideal for those who enjoy a fruity, refreshing drink with a bit of a kick.
How Cucumber Sunrise Tastes?
The Cucumber Sunrise is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors. The cucumber provides a refreshing, crisp undertone, while the orange juice adds a sweet citrusy note. The tequila gives it a strong, robust kick, making it a well-rounded, flavorful cocktail.
Interesting facts about Cucumber Sunrise
- The Cucumber Sunrise is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
- Despite its name, it doesn't actually contain any sunrise.
- The cocktail's unique color gradient resembles a sunrise, hence the name.
Ingredients
- Cucumber: 1
- Orange juice: 2 oz(60ml)
- Tequila: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Ice cubes: as needed
- Lime: 1 slice
Cucumber
Cucumbers bring a fresh, green crispness to the drink, and muddling it releases both the flavor and essential oils. If you skimp on the cucumber, you'll miss out on the garden freshness that plays against the citrus and sweetness. No cucumber? Try fresh basil leaves for a different herby kick!
Alex Green
Orange Juice
Vital for a sweet citrus burst, orange juice helps smooth over the stronger taste of tequila. Too much and you'll overpower the subtler flavors, too little and the cocktail falls flat. Swapping for grapefruit juice adds a bit of tartness for those who love a more zesty profile.
Emma Rose
Tequila
Tequila is the kick in the pants this drink needs to go from juicy to boozy. Getting stingy with tequila could mean a mocktail rather than a cocktail. For those who prefer a milder taste, consider using a blanco tequila for a smoother finish.
Mary Mitkina
Simple Syrup
Sweet, but not too sweet. That's the simple syrup's mantra. It balances the acidic components. Without it, your tongue might pucker a bit more than desired. Maple syrup could be a fall-flavored twist that adds depth.
Alex Green
Ice Cubes
Ice keeps it all chill and dilutes the drink just enough to let every flavor sing. No ice means a strong and possibly too-warm drink. Crushed ice could make it more of a slushy experience for those hot summer nights.
Emma Rose
Lime
That little slice isn't just a pretty face. Lime adds a tangy pop and rounds out the drink's profile. Leave it out, and you may find the drink a touch too rounded on the sweet side. A lemon slice could replace lime for a different citric zing.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Cucumber Sunrise Drink
- Muddle the cucumber in a shaker.
- Add the orange juice, tequila, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a slice of lime.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
- Don't over-muddle the cucumber, as it can make the cocktail bitter.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers & Snacks
- Sushi Rolls: The crisp, clean flavors of the cucumber in the cocktail complement the delicate taste of sushi.
- Chicken Satay: The citrus from the orange juice can cut through the richness of the peanut sauce.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, especially those that are mild in flavor such as mozzarella, pair nicely with the refreshing aspects of the cocktail.
Main Courses
- Grilled Fish: Light and fresh, much like our Cucumber Sunrise, it pairs effortlessly.
- Pasta with Cream Sauce: The acidity of the cocktail can help balance the richness of cream-based sauces.
Desserts
- Lemon Sorbet: A light and zesty end to a meal that shares citrus notes with the cocktail.
- Fruit Tarts: The sweetness of the simple syrup in the drink will resonate with the sweetness in fruit-based desserts.
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What you could change in Cucumber Sunrise
- Tequila can be substituted with vodka for a milder flavor.
- If you don't have simple syrup, you can make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water.
Explore all drinks starting with C here
And of course - twists🍹
Spicy Cucumber Sunrise
- Add a few slices of jalapeño before muddling the cucumber to kick up the heat.
- The spicy notes will contrast the sweet and tangy elements and provide an appealing kick for those who love a bit of spice in their sip.
Cucumber Sunset
- Swap the tequila for dark rum and add a splash of cranberry juice.
- This twist will take the cocktail from a vibrant sunrise to a sultry sunset, introducing a deeper, slightly tart flavor profile.
Herbal Cucumber Sunrise
- Introduce muddled basil leaves alongside the cucumber and a spritz of elderflower liqueur.
- The herbal tones and floral notes of elderflower will elevate the sophistication of the cocktail, creating a fragrant experience that tantalizes the senses.
In case you forgot basics how to make Cucumber Sunrise
The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.
Learn everything about simple syrupAdd your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainThe key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.
Learn everything on how to muddleGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Cucumber Sunrise
What is the best time to enjoy Cucumber Sunrise?
While it can be enjoyed any time, the Cucumber Sunrise is particularly refreshing on hot summer days or served as a brunch cocktail.
Can children enjoy mocktail version of Cucumber Sunrise?
Yes, you can omit the alcohol to create a flavorful and refreshing mocktail that people of all ages can enjoy.
Can I switch the type of orange juice used in the recipe?
Yes, certainly! While fresh orange juice is recommended, you can also use bottled. Just keep in mind that the taste may slightly differ.
I'm not a fan of tequila. Can I still enjoy this cocktail?
Definitely! You can replace tequila with vodka to suit your taste.
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