Orange Crush Vodka Slushies: The Ultimate Summer Cocktail
When the temperatures rise and you’re craving something icy, fruity, and refreshing, few drinks hit the spot quite like an Orange Crush Vodka Slushie. This vibrant cocktail combines the nostalgic taste of orange soda with the adult kick of vodka and the cooling effect of crushed ice. It’s the perfect recipe for summer BBQs, beach days, or simply relaxing on the patio. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making this slushie cocktail, including expert tips to get the best flavor and consistency every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup vodka – Choose a smooth vodka brand you enjoy
- 2 cups orange soda – Orange Crush is ideal, but any orange soda works
- 1 cup frozen orange juice concentrate – Adds intense citrus flavor
- 2 cups ice – Crushed or cubes, depending on your blender
- Orange slices (optional) – For garnish and visual appeal
Why This Recipe Works:
This cocktail strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and strong. The frozen orange juice concentrate deepens the citrus flavor while the orange soda adds a fizzy, sweet element that keeps the drink light and drinkable. Blended with vodka and ice, the result is a smooth, semi-frozen treat that feels like summer in a glass.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Measure out 1 cup of vodka and keep it ready. Take your frozen orange juice concentrate out of the freezer and let it soften for a few minutes. This will make blending easier.
Step 2: Load the Blender
In your blender, pour in 2 cups of orange soda. Add the slightly softened orange juice concentrate, followed by 1 cup of vodka. Finally, add 2 cups of ice.
Step 3: Blend It All
Secure the lid tightly and blend on high speed. You want the ice to fully crush and the mixture to become smooth and slushy. Depending on your blender’s power, this will take around 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give your slushie a quick taste. If it’s too strong, add a splash more orange soda. If you prefer it sweeter, mix in a little simple syrup or a splash of grenadine.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Pour the mixture into chilled glasses, filling each about three-quarters full to leave room for garnish or extra ice. Optionally, add a slice of orange to the rim or float one inside the glass for a classy touch.
Extra Tips for the Perfect Slushie:
- Use crushed ice if possible—it blends faster and more smoothly than full cubes.
- Freeze your glasses before serving for an extra-cold experience.
- Want it boozier? Increase the vodka to 1.5 cups.
- Serving a crowd? Double or triple the recipe and keep it in a large pitcher in the freezer.
Non-Alcoholic Version:
Hosting kids or non-drinkers? You can still enjoy the refreshing taste of this drink without the alcohol. Simply omit the vodka and add an extra ½ cup of orange soda or a splash of lemon-lime soda for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts:
This Orange Crush Vodka Slushie is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. It’s bold, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting friends or just cooling off after a long day, this cocktail is sure to become a summer staple.Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies