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Arizona Sunset is a bright, refreshing non-alcoholic drink that captures the colors of a desert sunset in a glass. This easy mocktail combines citrusy orange juice, fizzy lemon-lime soda, and sweet grenadine for a layered drink that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together or just want something fun to sip, Arizona Sunset is a simple and family-friendly option.
If you enjoy refreshing drinks like this, be sure to check out Mock Champagne Punch and Strawberry Limeade. You can also browse more ideas in my full collection of drink recipes.
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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients
- A fun, non-alcoholic drink everyone can enjoy
- Beautiful layered look inspired by an Arizona sunset
- Perfect for summer parties, BBQs, and family gatherings
- Ready in just 10 minutes
Key Ingredients
Orange Juice
Adds bright citrus flavor and serves as the base for this refreshing drink.
Lemon-Lime Soda
Gives the drink its fizz and light sweetness. Use your favorite brand for the best flavor.
Grenadine
Creates that signature sunset effect with its deep red color and sweet taste.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- ice – no substitution recommended
- grenadine – substitute with pomegranate syrup if needed
- lemon-lime soda – substitute with any citrus soda or sparkling lemonade
- orange juice – use fresh-squeezed juice for best flavor
- maraschino cherries or orange slices – optional garnish, no substitution recommended
Variations
- Add a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical twist
- Use sparkling water instead of soda for a lighter version
- Turn it into an adult drink by adding vodka or rum
- Layer the top with a splash of cranberry juice or grape juice for a deeper sunset effect
Tips for Best Results
- Pour slowly to keep the layered effect intact
- Use chilled ingredients for the best flavor
- Serve immediately so the soda stays fizzy
- Adjust grenadine to taste, depending on your sweetness preference
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FAQs
You can mix the juice and soda ahead, but assemble right before serving for the best results.
Grenadine is denser than the other liquids, which creates the layered sunset look.
Yes, diet lemon-lime soda works fine and reduces the sugar content.
How to Store Arizona Sunset
Arizona Sunset is best enjoyed fresh.
If needed, you can mix the orange juice and soda ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add grenadine and ice just before serving for the best look and flavor.
How to Make an Arizona Sunset
This Arizona Sunset comes together quickly with just a few steps, creating a beautiful layered drink.
Quick steps:
- Fill glasses with ice
- Add grenadine to each glass
- Mix orange juice and soda
- Slowly pour over grenadine
- Garnish and serve
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Arizona Sunset
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Equipment
- 2 glasses for serving
Ingredients
- ice
- grenadine
- 1 cup lemon-lime soft drink
- 1 cup orange juice
- maraschino cherries or orange slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place ice in 2 glasses. Add a splash of grenadine to each glass.
- In a small pitcher or another container, stir the soda and orange juice together.
- Slowly pour the orange juice mixture over the grenadine, dividing the mixture between the two glasses.
- Garnish with cherries or orange slices, if desired.
Notes
🥡 STORAGE
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours without ice
- Keep grenadine separate until ready to serve
♨️ REHEATING
- Not applicable for this recipe
- Serve chilled for best results
❄️ FREEZING
- Freezing is not recommended as it will affect texture and carbonation
💡 TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS
- Pour slowly to maintain the layered effect
- Use clear glasses to show off the sunset look
- Chill ingredients beforehand for better flavor
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less grenadine
🍳 ALTERNATE COOKING METHODS
- None
♻️ LEFTOVERS
- Use the leftover mixture as a base for popsicles
- Blend with ice for a frozen slush version
📝 NOTES
- Use your favorite lemon-lime soda since flavor varies by brand
- Fresh orange juice will give the best flavor
- This drink is best served immediately after assembling
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
🍽️ Other Recipes You May Enjoy
If you enjoyed this sunset mocktail recipe, here are a few more reader-favorite recipes from Love Bakes Good Cakes you may want to try next.
Sounds yummy!
I want to be a zonie! Well, I was for a couple days ๐ This drink looks very refreshing! Thanks for sharing with us at MM – pinned and sharing on G+
Sounds delicious, will have to try it.
When I made the drive from North Carolina to move to California, I LOVED my drive through Arizona. I'll have to make this drink, but it'll be a California Sunset here. ;0)
Love this, Jamie, I think I'd add a shot of vodka or rum, but it looks wonderful as is. Thanks for joining us at marvelous mondays. Pinned!
Thanks so much, Paula!
Yum how refreshing. Is it summer yet?
My goal is to be drinking an Arizona Sunset, in Arizona, while watching an Arizona sunset. Totally doable, no? Looks delicious!
This looks beautiful, Jamie – I remember when you moved to Arizona and I'm so happy that you love it there! Definitely pinning this drink! Enjoy your Saturday!
This sounds very cool and refreshing! =)
Pinning to my Beverage board.
I am an Arizona native living in Colorado and I know exactly how you feel about living in AZ. I LOVE IT TOO! I miss it so much. I look forward to the summers here in CO hoping it will get hot like in AZ but to no avail. Thanks for sharing this recipe. I can't wait to try it.