Tangerine Dream Cocktail

Doesn’t a tangerine drink just take you back? There’s something so nostalgic about a fizzy orange-flavored beverage that we can’t get enough of, especially in the warm weather months. If you agree, then you’re going to love this tangerine cocktail recipe we’ve mixed up for you below. Whether you’re throwing a sunny gathering or making one for yourself after a long day at work, it’s sure to please.

This refreshing aperitif combines tangerine juice and cream soda to create a bubbly bev that simply makes you go “ahh.” We love that this drink is refreshingly inviting, while still offering a nice tang. 

The citrus vodka is what really gives this cocktail its kick. The liquor blends perfectly with the juice and soda ingredients to give it a little pep. While citrus vodka is often lemon or lime, other flavors such as orange or even grapefruit, will do the trick as well. 

But the hint of bitterness is just the icing on the cake. Make it and see for yourself! 

Sweet and (Slightly) Sour

The fullness of the flavor from the tangerine juice gives this cocktail a sweet and sour taste which complements the vodka. Of course, if you want to make a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the liquor for lemon seltzer, or even an unflavored seltzer.

The cream soda makes it extra smooth—and who doesn’t love cream soda? The carbonation also brings out more of the flavor in the tangerine juice. It’s an effervescent combination of flavors that will relax and refresh you, perfect for relaxing at the cottage or at the beach.

Use Reusable Straws

To serve this cocktail in a sustainable and stylish way, use reusable glass straws. These will allow you to cut down on waste. Paper straws are another environmentally-friendly option, as well.

Don’t Forget the Garnish

We added tangerine wheels to our recipe because all great cocktails come with a garnish. So don’t forget to slice up your citrus for that added detail. If you can’t find fresh tangerines at your local grocery store, any citrus fruit will pair well! Your guests will appreciate the added touch as they sip and socialize. 

It’s All About Hospitality

Serving cocktails and mocktails is all about providing a fun and memorable experience whether you’re hosting a birthday or a simple happy hour. It’s the little things you can do that make you a great host.

Follow along as we share the secrets to making this refreshing tangerine cocktail. (The first? It’s so easy!) Make sure to drink responsibly and pair your beverages with some complementary food items, such as our Falafel Sliders with Cumin-Chile Yogurt Sauce. 

And when your guests are ready for some dessert, try our Sorbet Swirl Ice Cream Cake. This cake has a cookie crumble crust topped with layers of mango and raspberry sorbet, vanilla ice cream, and topped with fresh fruit.

Tangerine Dream

This refreshing cocktail is brighter than the sun and perfect for summer weather.

MAKES: 8 DRINKS
ACTIVE: 10 MIN
TOTAL: 10 MIN

To make a mocktail version of this refreshing drink: Add an extra 2 oz. tangerine juice and 2 oz. soda to each glass instead of citrus vodka. Top with lemon seltzer.

– Ice
– 12 oz. citrus vodka
– 16 oz. fresh tangerine or orange juice
– 16 oz. cream soda
– Tangerine wheels, for garnish

Instructions
For each cocktail, fill a tall Collins or pint glass with ice.
Add 1 1/2 oz. vodka, 2 oz. juice, and 2 oz. cream soda.
Add a straw and stir gently to combine.
Garnish each drink with a tangerine wheel.