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I fell in love with the Orange Crush during a trip to Maryland and have been perfecting my recipe ever since. This sunshine in a glass is all about fresh squeezed orange juice vodka and just enough fizz to make it dance. Trust me once you try one made with fresh oranges you'll never want the bottled stuff again.
A Little History
Every beach town in Maryland claims they invented the Orange Crush. Whether it started in Ocean City Baltimore or Annapolis doesn't matter to me what matters is how this simple cocktail became a summer tradition. It's that perfect blend of fresh citrus and fizz that keeps everyone coming back for more.
What You'll Need
- Fresh Oranges: 4-5 juicy ones Valencia are my favorite.
- Good Vodka: 2 ounces use the good stuff.
- Triple Sec: 1 ounce for extra orange punch.
- Lemon-Lime Soda: 2-3 ounces for sparkle.
- Ice: Crushed is traditional.
- Pretty Garnishes: Orange wedges and cherries.
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Let's Mix It Up
- Start with Ice
- Fill that glass with crushed ice right to the top.
- Add the Booze
- Pour in your vodka and triple sec.
- Fresh Squeeze Time
- This is where the magic happens juice those oranges right into the glass.
- Top It Off
- Add your soda give it a gentle stir.
- Make It Pretty
- Garnish with fresh orange and maybe a cherry.
Mix It Up
Want to switch things up? Try orange vodka for extra citrus flavor or swap in grapefruit juice for a tart twist. Sometimes I use orange soda instead of lemon-lime when I want it extra orangey. Play around until you find your perfect mix.
Fresh is Best
Listen I know it's tempting to use bottled juice but fresh oranges make all the difference. I invested in a simple citrus juicer and haven't looked back. That bright fresh squeezed flavor is what makes this drink special.
Perfect Pairings
These cocktails go perfectly with seafood especially steamed shrimp. I love serving them at summer BBQs or with light appetizers. Something about that citrus just makes everything taste better.
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Party Ready
When I'm hosting I set up a little crush station with a bowl of oranges the juicer and all the fixings. People love making their own drinks and watching those oranges turn into something magical. It's always the hit of the party.
Smart Prep
Here's my party trick juice your oranges ahead of time up to 24 hours. Store the juice in the fridge then just mix drinks as needed. Just remember to give it a good shake before using the flavors settle.
Year Round Joy
Don't save these just for summer. I make them all year round. That burst of orange brightens up even the coldest winter day. Plus citrus is actually in season during winter who knew?
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use bottled orange juice?
Fresh-squeezed juice gives the best flavor but bottled works in a pinch. Use pulp-free juice if using bottled.
- → Why crushed ice?
Crushed ice keeps the drink colder and dilutes at the right rate. Regular ice cubes work but change the experience.
- → Can I make a pitcher?
Best made one at a time since fresh juice and carbonation are key to taste. Mix base ingredients ahead but add soda last.