A classic tequila sunrise has a beautiful layered look and combines fruity flavors with tequila. Find the recipe and tips for making this cocktail here.
A smaller version of this fun drink is the tequila sunrise shot. This recipe involves the same ingredients and pouring techniques but comes in a more compact glass.

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Ingredients
A good drink starts with quality ingredients. For this shot, you will need just 3 items.

- Tequila, this comes from the Blue Agave plant and has a very distinct taste and contains a combination of flavors. Depending on the brand you buy, you may taste the agave combined with smoked oak, caramel, vanilla, and various spices. For this cockatil opt for a silver tequila, a clear and clean variety.
- Orange Juice. Although fresh squeezed it always best, it’s not always possible. A good brand with minimal pulp will work well for this drink.
- Grenadine. This is a thick and dense, very sweet, cherry mixer. A good staple to have in your home bar.
You will also need a few shot glasses. I like these tall shooters, they show off the layers nicely and give each person a good portion of the drink.
Laying a Tequila Sunrise
The beauty of this drink lies in its layers. To layer a drink you will need to know the density of the ingredients.
A sunrise is easy, there are only 3 ingredients so you don’t have to think too hard. The grenadine will sink as it is much denser than the combination of tequila and orange juice.
Pour the grenadine last, down the side of the shot glass, and it will settle on the bottom, leaving that perfect ombre look from the top of the glass on down.

Tequila Sunrise Shot
A layered shot made with tequila
Ingredients
- 2 oz. silver tequila
- 6 oz orange juice
- .5 oz grenadine
Instructions
- In a shaker filled with ice, add tequila and orange juice, cover, and shake well.
- Strain mixture into 3 tall shot glasses, you may be able to make a fourth out of this mix depending on the size of your glasses.
- Pour grenadine into a cup with a spout, a measuring cup will work.
- Pour a small amount of grenadine down the side of the shot glass so it settles on the bottom.
- Serve and enjoy immediately.
Notes
This shot can be mixed before enjoying. Or drink it in one sip to blend all the flavors.
Consider garnishing with a maraschino cherry or orange slice.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 3 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 83Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 2mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 0gSugar: 7gProtein: 0g
Layering drinks can seem intimidating, but with practice, you will become a pro. The densest layer will always be on the bottom. The lighter layers make up the top.
Try this Gin and Sin for another simple 2 layer drink.

Start with 2 layer drinks and work your way up. Once you move to 3 or more layers you will need to use a spoon and careful pouring skills to pull off the look.
This 3 layered red white and blue cocktail is perfect for summer.

If you like this tequila sunrise shot, pin and save the recipe.

