Orange Crush Recipe

Prepare fresh orange juice

Roll 3–4 navel oranges on the countertop firmly to loosen juices. Cut in half and juice until you have about 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) fresh orange juice. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a measuring cup to remove pulp and seeds if you prefer a smoother drink. Reserve about 1 teaspoon of finely grated orange zest.

Chill glassware

Place 2 serving glasses in the freezer for 5–10 minutes, or fill them with ice while you prepare the cocktail to ensure the drink stays cold.

Combine base ingredients

In a cocktail shaker or large mixing glass, add 2 cups crushed ice, 1 1/4 cups fresh orange juice, 1/2 cup chilled vodka, 2 tablespoons triple sec, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon simple syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon orange zest. The crushed ice will help further chill and slightly dilute for balance.

Shake and integrate

If using a cocktail shaker: secure the lid and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker frosts. If using a mixing glass: stir briskly with a bar spoon for about 20 seconds to chill and integrate the ingredients. Taste and add up to 1 additional teaspoon of simple syrup if you prefer sweeter.

Assemble with soda

Remove the chilled glasses from the freezer and divide fresh crushed ice between them (about 1/2 cup each). Strain the shaken orange-vodka mixture evenly into the glasses over the ice, filling them about 3/4 full. Top each glass with about 1/4 cup chilled club soda (adjust to taste) to add effervescence. Gently stir once with a bar spoon to combine.

Garnish and serve

Thread an orange wheel onto the rim of each glass and add a mint sprig if desired. Serve immediately with a short straw or cocktail pick alongside a light breakfast like croissants and fresh berries if using.

Warm croissants or toast and plate with berries. Serve alongside the Orange Crush for a balanced breakfast presentation.