With those lazy, hazy days of summer upon us, we need a chill, go-to drink that’s as refreshing as it is delicious, and this Orange Vodka Slush is it! Made with vodka, Cointreau, orange juice, sugar, ice, and a surprise packet of orange Kool-Aid, this frozen cocktail is packed with bright citrus flavor and a fun pop of nostalgia.
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
If hot weather has you craving snow cones and slushies, this Orange Vodka Slush is about to become your new summer favorite. It has all the icy, citrusy fun of a childhood treat with a grown-up twist.
- Bright orange flavor from orange juice, Cointreau, and orange Kool-Aid
- Quick and easy to make in the blender
- Great for parties because you can make it ahead and freeze it
- Easy to customize with different Kool-Aid flavors or creamsicle-inspired additions
- Refreshing, icy texture that’s perfect for hot summer days
Orange Vodka Slush Ingredients
The booze: Vodka keeps this slush crisp and refreshing, while Cointreau adds a smooth orange liqueur flavor that makes every sip extra citrusy.
The orange flavor: Orange juice provides the fruity base, and a packet of orange Kool-Aid adds both bright orange color and nostalgic citrus flavor.
The texture and sweetness: Granulated sugar balances the citrus notes, while plenty of ice creates a thick, frosty slush.
Sweetness Tip: Prefer a less-sweet cocktail? Start with a little less sugar and adjust to taste after blending.
How to Make an Orange Vodka Slush
STEP ONE: Add the ice, orange Kool-Aid, sugar, orange juice, Cointreau, and vodka to a blender.
STEP TWO: Blend until the mixture is thick, icy, and evenly combined. If the slush seems too thick, add a splash of orange juice. If it’s too thin, blend in a little more ice.
STEP THREE: Pour into chilled glasses and serve immediately for the best texture, or transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container if making it ahead.
Tips & Variations
These simple tips will help you customize your Orange Vodka Slush and get the best flavor and texture every time.
- Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk for an Orange Creamsicle Slush that’s rich, creamy, and extra nostalgic.
- Leave out the orange Kool-Aid for a subtler citrus flavor, or swap it for another fruit flavor to create your own frozen cocktail variation.
- For the thickest, frostiest texture, serve the slush immediately after blending, before the ice starts to melt.
- Chill your glasses in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to help keep the slush cold longer.
Can You Freeze an Orange Slush Cocktail?
Yes! This Orange Vodka Slush is a great make-ahead cocktail for summer parties and backyard gatherings.
Transfer the blended slush to a freezer-safe container with a lid and freeze for several hours or overnight. Because of the alcohol content, it won’t freeze completely solid and should stay scoopable.
When you’re ready to serve, let the container sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes, then stir or scoop the slush into glasses. For the best flavor and texture, enjoy it within 1 month.
FAQ
What kind of vodka should I use?
A smooth mid-range vodka works great in this recipe. Since the drink has a bright citrus flavor, there’s no need to use a top-shelf bottle, but you’ll want one that tastes clean and mixes well.
What can I use instead of Cointreau?
If you don’t have Cointreau, substitute triple sec or Grand Marnier. Triple sec creates a lighter, sweeter flavor, while Grand Marnier adds richer orange notes. You can also use extra orange juice for a less boozy drink.
Can I make this in a larger batch?
Yes! This recipe can easily be doubled for parties and gatherings. Just make sure your blender is large enough to handle the extra ice and liquid.
Can I make this without alcohol?
Absolutely. Replace the vodka and Cointreau with Sprite, ginger ale, or extra orange juice for a family-friendly frozen orange slush.
*This post originally posted on 08/18/2015.
Orange Vodka Slush Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 cups ice
- 1 packet orange Kool-Aid
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup Cointreau
- ½ cup vodka
- orange slices cut in half
- mint sprigs
Equipment
Method
- Add 5 cups ice, 1 packet orange Kool-Aid, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup orange juice, 1/2 cup Cointreau, and 1/2 cup vodka to a blender.
- Cover and blend until thick, icy, and spoonable.
- Pour into wine glasses and garnish with orange slices and mint sprigs. Serve immediately.
Aubrey’s Tips
- Make Ahead: Blend the slush and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze until ready to serve. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before stirring and serving.
- Sweetness Tip: Reduce the sugar slightly for a less-sweet slush.
- Freezing Tip: Avoid adding extra vodka if freezing the mixture, as additional alcohol can keep it from setting properly.
Did you make it?
Show me! @aubrey_realhousemoms or tag #realhousemoms!More Frozen Cocktails to Try
If you love frosty cocktails that are easy to blend and perfect for warm weather, try one of these reader favorites next:
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- Pineapple Rum Slushie – Sweet, fruity, and made for sipping by the pool.
- Triple Berry Red Wine Slushies – A refreshing frozen wine cocktail bursting with berry flavor.
- Strawberry & Lime Moscato Slushie – Light, fruity, and perfect for summer gatherings.
- Raspberry Peach Wine Slushie – Sweet peaches and tart raspberries make an irresistible frozen drink.
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