• Vodka
  45 ml (1.5 oz)

  A clean, neutral base—can substitute with white rum or gin
• Pineapple juice
  60 ml (2 oz)

  Fresh is best for vibrant flavor
• Orange juice
  30 ml (1 oz)

  Adds brightness and citrusy balance
• Grenadine
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  For the layered sunset effect
• Club soda
  30 ml (1 oz)

  For a light, effervescent finish
• Ice
  1 cup

  Enough to fill your glass

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Bar spoon
• Highball or Collins glass
• Strainer

1. 1

   Fill a shaker with ice. Pour in the vodka, pineapple juice, and orange juice.

2. 2

   Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to chill and combine.

3. 3

   Fill a highball or Collins glass with fresh ice.

4. 4

   Strain the shaken mixture into the prepared glass.

5. 5

   Slowly pour the grenadine down the inside of the glass. It will sink and gradually rise, creating an ombre effect.

6. 6

   Top with club soda for a refreshing fizz.

7. 7

   Gently stir just the top layer with a bar spoon to blend the soda, leaving the grenadine undisturbed at the bottom.

8. 8

   Garnish and serve immediately.

• Eye-catching ombre layers that look just like a summer sunset.
• Bursting with juicy, tropical flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying.
• Low in alcohol, making it perfect for daytime sipping or pairing with brunch.
• Super easy to make—no fancy equipment or advanced skills required.
• Versatile recipe that can be tweaked with different juices or spirits to suit your taste.

The Sunset Cooler is a modern classic, inspired by the global love for visually stunning, fruit-forward cocktails. While there's no single bartender who claims its invention, the drink gained popularity in the late 2010s as social media made layered, colorful cocktails a sensation. Bartenders began experimenting with fruit juices and syrups to create an ombre effect reminiscent of breathtaking sunsets. Today, the Sunset Cooler is a staple at beach bars, rooftop lounges, and backyard parties—anywhere people gather to celebrate good times and great views.