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Sex on the Beach

The Sex on the Beach cocktail is a fruity and tropical libation known for its vibrant color and playful name. Originating in the 1980s, its exact origins are unclear, but it quickly became a popular choice at beach bars and resorts, offering a taste of summer with its blend of vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and orange juice.

The Sex on the Beach cocktail is a fruity and tropical libation known for its vibrant color and playful name. Originating in the 1980s, its exact origins are unclear, but it quickly became a popular choice at beach bars and resorts, offering a taste of summer with its blend of vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and orange juice.

Ingredients and Tools:

  • 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) vodka

  • 15 ml (1/2 oz) peach schnapps

  • 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) cranberry juice

  • 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) orange juice

  • Ice cubes

  • Highball glass

  • Cocktail shaker

  • Jigger

  • Straw


Preparation Steps:

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.

  2. In a cocktail shaker, combine 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) of vodka, 15 ml (1/2 oz) of peach schnapps, 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) of cranberry juice, and 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) of orange juice.

  3. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the ingredients.

  4. Strain the mixture into the prepared highball glass over the ice.

  5. Optionally, garnish with an orange slice or a maraschino cherry for a decorative touch.


Flavor Profile:

The Sex on the Beach cocktail offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, with the fruity notes of peach schnapps and cranberry juice complementing the citrusy undertones of orange juice. It's a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail that evokes images of sandy beaches and sunny skies.



Mixoloco - Mixology Tips:


  • Layering Technique: To achieve the iconic layered look of the Sex on the Beach cocktail, pour the cranberry juice into the glass first, followed by the vodka-peach schnapps-orange juice mixture. This creates distinct layers of color for a visually stunning presentation.

  • Choosing Cranberry Juice: Opt for 100% pure cranberry juice or cranberry juice cocktail with no added sugar for the best flavor.

  • Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: I vividly remember the first time I used freshly squeezed orange juice in a Sex on the Beach cocktail—the difference in flavor was incredible! Now, I make the extra effort to squeeze my own juice whenever possible.

  • Garnish with Care: I once garnished my Sex on the Beach cocktail with a pineapple wedge, and it added a delightful tropical touch. Don't hesitate to get creative with your garnishes!

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