Screwdriver Cocktail
A bright, two-ingredient cocktail that's all about simplicity. Fresh orange juice and smooth vodka served over ice — crisp, refreshing, and ready in under a minute. The ultimate no-fuss brunch companion.
For 1 serving
- prep
Fill the glass with ice.
Add a generous cup of ice cubes to a highball glass.
- mix
Pour in the vodka and orange juice.
Measure 60 ml vodka and 120 ml fresh orange juice over the ice.
- mix
Stir gently to combine.
Use a bar spoon to stir the drink for about 10 seconds until well chilled and combined.
- garnish
Garnish with an orange slice and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- 2Chill your vodka and glassware beforehand to keep the drink cold longer without excessive dilution.
- 3Stir gently for exactly 10 seconds to chill and combine without over-diluting the ice.
- 4If you prefer pulp, strain the juice or leave it in for extra texture and fresh-squeezed character.
- 5For a taller, fizzier variation, top with a splash of soda water after stirring.
- 6Adjust the vodka-to-juice ratio to your taste; a 1:2 ratio is classic, but 1:3 makes it lighter.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low-sugar
Replace half the orange juice with soda water or sparkling water to reduce sugar while keeping the bright citrus flavor and fizz.
herb infusedHerb-infused
Muddle fresh basil or mint in the glass before adding ice for an aromatic, garden-fresh twist on the classic Screwdriver.
spiked sunriseSpiked sunrise
Add 15 ml grenadine after stirring; it sinks to create a sunrise effect and adds a sweet-tart complexity.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Fresh orange juice provides a generous dose of vitamin C, supporting immune health and acting as an antioxidant.
Low Calorie Base
Made with just vodka and juice, this cocktail avoids syrups and sugary mixers, keeping calories relatively modest per serving.
Hydrating with Electrolytes
Orange juice naturally contains potassium, an electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but the flavor will be noticeably less bright and may taste overly sweet or pasteurized. Freshly squeezed is strongly recommended.
