Get ready for some fun in the sun—we’re making the fruity, citrusy, summer classic Sex On The Beach Cocktail.
Back in the day, I bartended in Manhattan and Las Vegas for what feels like a lifetime. Although Sex on the Beach is classically a beach or poolside drink, it was quite popular in these major cities. Sex on the Beach was popularized in the 1980s and has been a nationwide staple in bars ever since.
I’m more of a wine girl myself, but my best friend prefers sweeter drinks, so I make Sex on the Beach for when she comes over. While it’s her favorite libation, she refuses to order it when we go out—for obvious reasons. When the bartender comes by to take our order, she always gets really awkward and asks me, “What is that drink called again that I love?”
She knows exactly what drink.
Well, lucky for her (and you), today we don’t have to say S-E-X to a stranger and can enjoy this classic cocktail at home!
If you are not familiar, Sex on the Beach is simply vodka, peach schnapps, orange and cranberry juice. It’s super refreshing and embodies the flavors of a beach vacation. Even better is that it’s so easy to make. There’s no muddling, no blender, or long list of ingredients required. Sex on the Beach is a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer parties!
Is Sex On The Beach Healthy?
Cocktails like Sex on the Beach aren’t enjoyed for their health benefits. While there’s some vitamin C and antioxidants from the orange and cranberry juice, there’s still plenty of sugar. Of course, we can’t forget about the alcohol content as well. Still, as sugary cocktails go, this one isn’t as bad, and the calorie count is fairly low, considering the serving size. Enjoy in moderation!
How To Create A Sunset Effect For Your Cocktail
Sex on the Beach is a pretty, peachy, pinky color and tastes delicious mixed together. However, to make it more visually appealing, you can create an ombre or sunset look by layering the ingredients. First, fill a glass with ice, add the orange juice and peach schnapps, and give it a good shake or vigorous stir. Then, add your vodka. After that, slowly pour the cranberry juice into the mix. Finally, top with an orange slice to finish your super pretty drink.
Can I Prep This Ahead?
Yes! Mix your vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and cranberry without the ice and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, serve over ice.
Serving Suggestions
When you change the ingredients in a classic cocktail, you end up with a different cocktail. However, I may only know this from years of bartending and mixology. But let’s talk about other versions, similar to Sex on the Beach and made with just a few ingredients. For example, if you omit the peach schnapps you have a Madras. If you take a Madras and take out the cranberry, you have a classic Screwdriver, another refreshing, citrusy cocktail to enjoy on a sunny day. You can also use Sex on the Beach as the base for an Orange-Cranberry-Champagne Cocktail.
I also love a good mocktail. For a version of Sex on the Beach sans alcohol, use cranberry and orange juice with peach nectar. This is now sweetly called a Cuddle on the Beach. You can also throw it all in a blender, add fresh fruit, and make something like this Healthy Strawberry-Watermelon Smoothie.
For food pairings, this drink is perfect for backyard grills. For a more “exotic” take on a classic, this Grilled Pineapple Paleo Burger With Cashew Cream is the perfect complement to Sex on the Beach. And don’t forget about Grilled Corn On The Cob!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1/2 ounce peach schnapps
- 1 1/2 ounces orange juice freshly squeezed
- 1 1/2 ounces cranberry juice
Instructions
- In a shaker, combine vodka, peach schnapps, orange juice, and cranberry juice with ice.
- Shake the mixture well until chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a highball glass filled with fresh ice and garnish with a cocktail umbrella.
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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