I first tried an Orange Crush cocktail on our way down to Ocean City, Maryland, when we stopped in Delaware, and let me tell you... it was love at first sip. Bright, fizzy, and citrusy with just the right amount of vodka, it tastes like summer in a glass.

I think it's the freshly squeezed oranges that make this cocktail so damn refreshing. Don't even try to use bottled orange juice.
Since trying it for the first time, I've been recreating this iconic beach drink at home using fresh (Florida) oranges 🍊, a splash of Cointreau, and an orange bubbly topper (instead of lemon lime soda!)
It’s ridiculously easy. Just 4 ingredients, super refreshing, and I haven't found one person who dislikes it so...you obviously need to try it! 😉
Okay, let's make one. You’re gonna be obsessed!

How This Crush Is Different!
- I used Poppi orange soda instead of Sprite. It makes it so much better!
- I use a combo of blood orange juice to add a beautiful color. (See photo below.)
- I use lots of crushed ice. This is seriously the key to a fresh orange crush.
How to Make a Perfect Orange Crush
- First off, you need LOTS of ice. Crushed ice, preferably. I will argue that it makes any drink immediately taste better.
- Then you'll need some juicy oranges. This is where a lot of your sweetness will come from so the sweeter, the better! Naval oranges are the sweetest!
- Add orange/mandarin flavored vodka to add an extra citrus punch.
- Use triple sec, Cointreau or and orange liqueur. This also adds some sweetness.
- Top with bubbly water or soda. This is also what makes it so refreshing. I love using Poppi's orange soda, but it's traditionally used with Sprite or 7Up.

Garnish & Glassware Tips
Best Glass Types: collins glass (fancy), highball (classic), wine goblet (fun)
Garnish Options: (orange wheel/slice, mint sprig to make it fancier, a fun straw is a must).
Other Popular Summer Cocktails

Orange Crush Cocktail
Ingredients
Method
- Fill high ball glasses up all the way to the top with crushed ice.
- Add juice from 1½ oranges (or until the glass is about ⅓ of the way filled), 2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce Cointreau or triple sec, and top with Poppi orange soda.
- Add a bit more ice if needed, so it's almost overflowing, and garnish with an orange wheel and straw.
Tried the recipe? I'd love to hear your thoughts below!