Embrace the cheeky wordplay and lighthearted refreshment of this crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make adult beverage!
The 1980s were a heady time in the U.S. The stock market was booming, MTV was revolutionizing music and style, John Hughes films had teens falling in love and learning life lessons, and shoulder pads were everywhere. Amid all this exuberance, clever marketing took cocktail culture into some suggestive territory. Drinks named “slippery nipple” and “sex on the beach” grabbed attention and started many a flirtatious conversation.
The fuzzy navel was part of that cheeky wordplay trend. Its name is a playful nod to its ingredients: “fuzzy” references the texture of peach skin—a tangential nod to peach schnapps—while “navel” points to the navel orange juice used in the original concoction.
This fuzzy navel cocktail recipe embraces that lighthearted history. The simplicity of just two ingredients makes this an easy party drink while allowing for custom tweaks to elevate its flavor profile. As it is, each sip delivers a refreshing combo of tart citrus notes and gentle sweetness that will please nearly every palate.
Make your navel as personal as your belly button
Use this fuzzy navel recipe as a template for crafting drinks that are uniquely you. Here are a few fun and creative ideas:
- Hairy Navel: Replace some of the peach schnapps with vodka to increase the alcohol content and reduce the sweetness of the drink.
- Fizzy Fuzzy Navel: Top your cocktail with sparkling wine, prosecco, or club soda for a bubbly version that’s well-suited to brunch or other daytime celebrations.
- Pierced Fuzzy Navel: Add a splash of grenadine to layer in color and give the drink subtle berry-citrus depth.
- Dark Hairy Navel: Mix in a combo of schnapps and brandy for warmth and complexity.
- Bloody Belly Button: Swap the orange juice for blood orange or passionfruit juice to add a tart and dramatic twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover fuzzy navels in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. After that, the flavors will fade and the juice will start to separate. Be sure to shake or stir the drink before serving. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months, though the alcohol content will prevent a hard freeze. A great idea is to freeze leftovers in ice cube trays, then transfer the semi-frozen cubes to a blender to make a slushy-style treat. Add ice or frozen fruit to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving suggestions
Serve fuzzy navels as part of a brunch spread if you’d rather not learn How To Make A Perfect Mimosa. This bright and sunny cocktail pairs beautifully with crowd favorites, like Smoked Salmon Avocado Toast, a hearty Croissant Breakfast Bake, and a decadent Blueberry Dutch Baby.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces peach schnapps
- 4 ounces orange juice
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Add the peach schnapps to the glass
- Pour the orange juice over the peach schnapps. Stir gently just to combine.
- Garnish with an orange slice and serve immediately.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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