Orange Crush Cocktail

This orange crush cocktail recipe takes the simple concept of a screwdriver with vodka and orange juice and fancies it up, adding layers of deep citrus flavor and a delightful effervescent finish.

I’ve made a lot of citrus-forward cocktails in my life, but this one has a personality all its own. Fresh-squeezed navel orange juice brings some bright sweetness, triple sec adds a little boozy depth, and a splash of lemon-lime soda gives it a fizzy, almost dangerously crushable topper. It’s refreshing, a little indulgent and, honestly, one of those drinks that makes you wonder why you ever settled for just basic OJ and vodka.

What is an orange crush cocktail?

An orange crush cocktail is a citrusy vodka highball that originated in Ocean City, Maryland, and has since become something of a coastal legend. It’s so beloved, in fact, that it became Maryland’s official state cocktail in 2025. The “orange” part of the name is pretty obvious, but what makes it a “crush” is the fresh-squeezed citrus juice, a spirit (usually vodka, but sometimes rum or tequila), an orange liqueur like triple sec and a splash of something bubbly like soda. And, of course, it’s served over crushed ice!

It’s all about balance, brightness, fresh juice, a little sweetness, a little booze and just enough bubbles to make it feel like a party.

Ingredients for an Orange Crush Cocktail

• Fresh-squeezed orange juice: This is the perfect moment to splurge on the sugar gem navel oranges in the fancy packaging. They may cost a little extra, but their juice is so sweet that they are worth every penny. Use anything from a big countertop juicer to a hand juicer, and you’ll be so glad you spent the extra time to make the OJ fresh.
• Vodka: Vodka has a neutral flavor, keeps the drink clean and lets the citrus shine. Use a high-quality brand of vodka for the perfect texture and smoothest taste.
• Triple sec: Triple sec adds that extra layer of orange flavor, a hint more booze and a little sweetness. A classic triple sec will work just fine, but upscale brands like Cointreau and Grand Marnier add more authentic orange flavor.
• Lemon-lime soda: This brings the bubbles and the touch of sweetness that ties everything together. Sprite or 7UP works great, but you can also play with lighter or drier options like seltzers or soda waters.
• Orange slices: If you bought the fancy navel oranges, you might as well use them for the garnish too. Some folks like a sprig of mint for a garnish as well.

Directions

Step 1: Fill the glass with ice

Fill a tall Collins glass with crushed ice.

Step 2: Add the other ingredients

Add the fresh-squeezed orange juice, vodka and triple sec to the glass. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.

Editor’s Tip: A long bar spoon comes in handy, especially if you are using a tall Collins glass.

Step 3: Top and garnish

Top the cocktail with a splash of lemon-lime soda, and garnish with an orange slice.

Orange Crush Cocktail Variations

• Make it like a mimosa: Replace the lemon-lime soda with Prosecco for a bubbly brunch-ready twist that feels like a beachside mimosa.
• Use flavored vodka: Swap in orange vodka for the regular vodka if you want to double down on the citrus, though it will add a slightly more artificial flavor profile.
• Go lighter with bubbles: Use a citrus seltzer instead of soda for a less sweet, more refreshing version that still has the signature fizz.
• Try a different spirit: Swap in white rum for a slightly tropical vibe or tequila for a citrusy, margarita-adjacent situation.

How to Make Orange Crush Cocktails for a Group

To make orange crush cocktails for a group, scale up the orange juice, vodka and triple sec in a pitcher using the same ratio as the recipe here (three parts OJ, two parts vodka and one part triple sec), and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Wait to add the soda until just before pouring so you keep that fresh fizz.

You can prep the base a few hours ahead of time, and then just give it a quick stir before serving. Pour it over crushed ice in individual glasses, top with soda and garnish so everyone gets that fresh, just-made experience.

Orange Crush Cocktail Tips

What type of glass should you use for an orange crush?

The best type of cocktail glass for an orange crush cocktail is a tall Collins or even a pint glass, which is actually a classic Ocean City move. The larger glass lets you load up on crushed ice, juice and soda, making it extra refreshing and a little less concentrated.

What can you serve with orange crush cocktails?

Orange crush cocktails go with any brunch recipe you might think up, but the drink also pairs perfectly with that coastal Maryland vibe. Think boardwalk fries, crab cakes, shrimp baskets or anything you’d happily eat with your hands after a long day in the sun.