Are you looking for a refreshing cocktail to quench your thirst and add some excitement to any occasion? Look no further than the classic screwdriver! This timeless drink has been a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts for decades, and its simplicity and versatility have made it a staple in many bars and homes. But why stick to just one recipe when you can try a dozen different variations?
In this article, we’ll take the humble screwdriver to new heights with 18 refreshing recipes that cater to every taste and occasion. From citrusy classics to spicy twists, these screwdrivers are sure to impress your friends and family at your next gathering. So whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need something to get you through the week, we’ve got you covered!
Classic Orange Screwdriver
Classic Orange Screwdriver Recipe
A refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver cocktail, this recipe combines the citrusy sweetness of orange juice with the crispness of vodka for a delightful drink perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– Slice of orange for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the vodka and orange juice.
3. Stir briefly to combine.
4. Garnish with a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: None!
Vodka-Free Citrus Screwdriver
This vodka-free version of the classic screwdriver is perfect for those who prefer a citrusy twist without the vodka. Made with freshly squeezed orange juice and a splash of grenadine, this refreshing drink is sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 4 oz pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz grenadine syrup
– Splash of sparkling water
– Slice of orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the orange and pineapple juices.
3. Add the grenadine syrup and stir gently to combine.
4. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
5. Garnish with a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and serve!
Spiced Vanilla Screwdriver
A twist on the classic screwdriver cocktail, this Spiced Vanilla Screwdriver adds warm and comforting flavors to a refreshing drink. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings or as a cozy nightcap.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vanilla-flavored vodka
– 4 oz orange juice
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Sliced orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vanilla-flavored vodka and orange juice.
3. Add the ground cinnamon and nutmeg; stir well to combine.
4. Garnish with sliced orange and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None!
Blood Orange and Rosemary Screwdriver
This refreshing cocktail combines the vibrant flavor of blood oranges with the herbal notes of rosemary, perfect for warm evenings or as a unique twist on a classic screwdriver.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz blood orange juice
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 1 1/2 oz vodka (or to taste)
– Ice
– Lime wheel and rosemary sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine blood orange juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the rosemary sprigs to the shaker and muddle gently to release their oils and flavor.
3. Add the vodka and fill the shaker with ice.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix, shake, and serve.
Tropical Pineapple Screwdriver
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces pineapple juice
– 3/4 ounce orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka (or any clear spirit of your choice)
– Splash of grenadine syrup (optional, for a slightly sweeter flavor)
– Pineapple wedges and cherry halves for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add pineapple juice, orange liqueur, and vodka to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice cubes.
5. If desired, add a splash of grenadine syrup for a hint of sweetness.
6. Garnish with pineapple wedges and cherry halves.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and enjoy!)
Sparkling Grapefruit Screwdriver
Revive your brunch routine with this refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver. The sweetness of grapefruit juice pairs perfectly with the effervescence of sparkling wine, creating a drink that’s as delightful as it is revitalizing.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 4 oz sparkling wine (champagne or prosecco work well)
– 1/2 oz triple sec or other orange-flavored liqueur
– Slice of grapefruit for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the grapefruit juice and triple sec.
3. Top with sparkling wine, holding back the foam with a spoon if desired.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve immediately.
Cranberry-Orange Holiday Screwdriver
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver cocktail. The combination of cranberry and orange flavors creates a sweet and tangy taste experience that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz orange-flavored vodka
– 4 oz cranberry juice
– Juice of 1 orange (about 2 tablespoons)
– Slice of orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the orange-flavored vodka and cranberry juice.
3. Squeeze in the juice of 1 orange.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of orange.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Ginger-Infused Screwdriver
Elevate your classic screwdriver cocktail with a hint of spicy warmth from fresh ginger. This refreshing twist is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their brunch or morning gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Vodka
– 1 oz Freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup Ginger syrup (see note)
– Slice of fresh ginger, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka and freshly squeezed orange juice.
3. Pour in the ginger syrup and stir to combine.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a slice of fresh ginger.
Note: To make ginger syrup, combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced, in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the syrup and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation only)
Peach Mango Screwdriver
A refreshing twist on the classic Screwdriver cocktail, this Peach Mango Screwdriver combines the sweetness of peaches and mango with a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Orange Juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 oz Peach Schnapps
– 1 oz Mango Liqueur
– Splash of Pineapple Juice (optional)
– Sliced peaches and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add orange juice, peach schnapps, and mango liqueur.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of pineapple juice (if using).
6. Garnish with sliced peaches and a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Cucumber Mint Screwdriver
A refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver cocktail, this recipe combines the coolness of cucumber and mint with the sweetness of orange juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 4 oz orange juice
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the sliced cucumber and fresh mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their flavors.
2. Add vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with orange juice and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Screwdriver
Elevate your cocktail game with this bold and refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver. The spicy kick from the jalapeño adds a thrilling dimension to the traditional vodka and orange juice combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt for rimming glass (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add the vodka, orange juice, and chopped jalapeño to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a slice of orange or a jalapeño pepper, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Pomegranate Screwdriver Fizz
Add a twist to the classic screwdriver with this refreshing Pomegranate Screwdriver Fizz. The sweetness of pomegranate juice pairs perfectly with the citrusy flavor of orange liqueur, making for a perfect summer cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Vodka
– 1 oz Pomegranate juice
– 1/2 oz Orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Splash of soda water
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, pomegranate juice, and orange liqueur to the shaker.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and add a splash of soda water.
4. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice cubes.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Blueberry Lavender Screwdriver
This refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver combines the sweetness of blueberries and the subtle floral notes of lavender for a truly one-of-a-kind cocktail experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup blueberry puree
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– Ice
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lime juice, and blueberry puree.
2. Add the dried lavender buds to the shaker and muddle gently with a spoon to release their flavor and aroma.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Coconut Lime Screwdriver
A refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver, this Coconut Lime Screwdriver combines the sweetness of coconut and lime with a hint of citrusy fun. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 4 oz pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz coconut cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Splash of club soda
– Ice
– Lime wheel and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Top with a splash of club soda.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready when you are!)
Bourbon-Orange Twist Screwdriver
Elevate your classic screwdriver with the warm, citrusy flavors of bourbon and orange.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve)
– 4 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– Slice of orange for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the bourbon whiskey.
3. Top with freshly squeezed orange juice.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of orange, twisted into a spiral shape.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to serve!)
Green Tea Screwdriver
A refreshing twist on the classic Screwdriver cocktail, this Green Tea version combines the bright flavor of green tea with a splash of citrus and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz green tea-infused vodka
– 4 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the green tea-infused vodka, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Raspberry Lemonade Screwdriver
A refreshing twist on the classic screwdriver, this Raspberry Lemonade Screwdriver combines the sweetness of raspberries and lemonade with the crispness of vodka. Perfect for warm weather or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz lemonade
– 1/4 cup fresh raspberry puree
– Sliced strawberries or raspberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and lemonade.
3. Add the raspberry puree and stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with sliced strawberries or raspberries, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Smoky Mezcal Screwdriver
Elevate your classic screwdriver with the bold flavors of smoky mezcal and a hint of citrus. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a little excitement.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz mezcal
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 4 oz orange juice
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
– Ice
– Lime wheel and orange slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the mezcal, lime juice, and orange juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. If desired, add a splash of grenadine for a subtle sweetness.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and orange slice.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to shake things up with 18 refreshing screwdriver cocktail recipes for every occasion! From classic twists to fruity fusions, these drinks are sure to quench your thirst. Try the Classic Orange Screwdriver for a timeless treat or spice things up with the Spicy Jalapeño Screwdriver. Perfect for holidays like Christmas with the Cranberry-Orange Holiday Screwdriver or add some tropical flair with the Peach Mango Screwdriver. With flavors ranging from citrusy to herbal, there’s something for everyone in this collection of screwdriver recipes.
