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Home » Tequila Sunrise Shot

Tequila Sunrise Shot

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Steve KilcullenBy Steve Kilcullen
Steve Kilcullen
Steve Kilcullen Cocktail Writer

An adventurer of the imagination, with a keen interest in the world of cocktails, spirits and sparkling wines.

Expertise: Cinema, Cocktails, Cartoons, Rock n' Roll & James Bond View all posts →
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Layered with the inviting colors of a beachside morning, the Tequila Sunrise Shot is a short burst of flavor and fun.

The classic cocktail from the 1970s, the Tequila Sunrise, is still a popular drink to this day. And it owes a large chunk of that notoriety to rock and roll. After Bobby Lozoff and Billy Rice of the Trident Bar in Sausalito, California invented the mixture, the legendary Rolling Stones took a liking to the sweet and peppery beverage. Shortly after their 1972 North American tour began, the Tequila Sunrise was their cocktail of choice on the road. The trek went down in rock history as the “Cocaine and Tequila Sunrise Tour”. With a rep like that, it must be a fine drink.

Tonight’s recipe is a tiny version of this monument to partying, the Tequila Sunrise Shot. Using everything you’d need to craft a regular-sized sipper, this one is scaled down, but still made in layers, like its bigger sibling. When you’re in the mood for a little Sunrise, this shooter is the way to go. And each mouthful is just as crisp and delicious as a full-sized offering.

But why would one make a shot version of a cocktail that’s traditionally larger? Well, in my opinion, variety. You can throw a party and offer up any number of tall, strong drinks, but shots tend to bring everyone at the gathering together, often with a toast. Instead of a simple pour of liquor, why not serve something eye-catching, and just as tasty?

What Is The Best Tequila To Use In A Tequila Sunrise Shot?

You can choose either a clear blanco tequila or an amber reposado. The blanco will be earthy and peppery, while the reposado, being an aged spirit, will bring a little more complexity to your shot. I prefer mixing my drinks with a blanco tequila, especially when using citrus like orange juice or lime. They balance well together, with neither one overpowering the other.

Print Recipe
1 serving
5 minutes minutes

Ingredients

  • 1/2 ounce tequila
  • 3/4 ounce orange juice
  • 1/4 ounce grenadine

Instructions

  • Pour the tequila and orange juice into a shot glass. Stir gently to mix if needed.
  • Slowly pour the grenadine down the side of the shot glass. You can pour against the back of a spoon to have better control.
  • Let it settle at the bottom to create a layered effect.

Nutrition

Calories: 61kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g

WHAT GLASSWARE IS USED?

Chill a few standard-sized shot glasses in your freezer for about thirty minutes before serving these shots. This will make the experience extra cold and smooth.

CAN YOU MAKE THIS A TEQUILA SUNSET SHOT?

Yes. All you need to do is use blackberry liqueur in place of the grenadine.

Other Shot Recipes Worth Trying

The shots we have here at Twist & Toast are no mere shooters, but memorable miniature cocktails that are as fun to make as they are to drink and share. A simple shot of whiskey or vodka is fine and dandy, but these special little treats below might just convince you to take a little extra care when crafting your next platter of party favors.

  • Birthday Cake Shot – This creamy shot tastes just like a mouthful of dessert.
  • Mini Beer – Looks like a tiny glass of suds, tastes just like a milkshake.
  • B-52 Shot – This layered, three-ingredient shooter is served on fire.
  • Duck Fart – This creamy whiskey shot has a silly name, but an amazing taste.
Steve Kilcullen

About Steve KilcullenCinema, Cocktails, Cartoons, Rock n' Roll & James Bond

An adventurer of the imagination, with a keen interest in the world of cocktails, spirits and sparkling wines.

Reader Interactions

James Rayner

✓Reviewed by James RaynerMixology Writing & Magazine Editing

Published: Mar 26, 2025 | Updated: Dec 17, 2025

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