Paloma
The Paloma cocktail has a refreshing, tart, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of tequila, grapefruit, and lime creates a balanced and zesty flavor profile, while the addition of soda water adds a light, effervescent texture.
Grapefruit Crush Cocktail Recipe
Jump to Recipe ⬇️
Grapefruit Crush Nutrition Facts
Calories:210
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:20g
Alcohol:15%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
Contents
History
The Grapefruit Crush cocktail is a refreshing and citrusy drink that gained popularity in the beach bars of Maryland, USA. It's a perfect summer drink that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves a fruity and tangy cocktail.
- Originated in Maryland, USA
- Popular in beach bars
- Perfect for summer days
How Grapefruit Crush Tastes?
The Grapefruit Crush is a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter flavors. The grapefruit juice provides a tangy and refreshing taste, while the triple sec adds a hint of sweetness. The vodka gives it a subtle kick, making it a well-balanced and enjoyable cocktail.
Interesting facts about Grapefruit Crush
- The Grapefruit Crush is often served in a mason jar or a highball glass
- The cocktail is sometimes garnished with a grapefruit wedge or a sprig of mint
- It's a versatile drink that can be easily customized with different types of citrus fruits or flavored vodkas
Ingredients
- Vodka: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Grapefruit juice: 4 oz(120ml)
- Triple sec: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Soda water: 1 oz(30ml)
- Grapefruit wedge: 1
- Mint sprig: 1
A few good options for Grapefruit Crush are:
- Grey Goose
- Belvedere
- Khor
- Smirnoff
Vodka
The backbone of many cocktails, our 1.5 oz of vodka provides a clean, neutral spirit base that allows the bright flavors of grapefruit and mint to shine. Too much vodka, and you'll overpower the cocktail; too little, and you'll miss the kick.
Emma Rose
Grapefruit Juice
4 oz of grapefruit juice gives the drink its signature tart and slightly sweet profile, and a healthy dose of Vitamin C! Skip this, and it's not a Grapefruit Crush anymore—it's just sad.
Mary Mitkina
Triple Sec
At 0.5 oz, Triple Sec adds a subtle orange-flavored sweetness that rounds out the flavors. Omitting it loses a layer of complexity, while too much could make your drink too sweet.
Alex Green
Simple Syrup
Half an ounce is just enough to ensure the cocktail isn't too tart without making it a sugar bomb. It’s the peacemaker between the vodka and the tart juice.
Emma Rose
Soda Water
1 oz of soda water adds a refreshing effervescence. Without it, the cocktail becomes a bit too 'still' and you miss out on those tickling bubbles.
Mary Mitkina
Grapefruit Wedge
Not just a pretty face, the grapefruit wedge adds an extra zing and decorates your drink. No wedge, no fun!
Alex Green
Mint Sprig
The mint sprig is the final flourish. It offers a burst of freshness and aroma with each sip. Forget the mint, and you’re robbing your nose of half the experience.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Grapefruit Crush Drink
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
- Add vodka, grapefruit juice, triple sec, and simple syrup to the shaker
- Shake well until chilled
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice
- Top with soda water
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and a sprig of mint
Pro Tips
- Use fresh grapefruit juice for a more refreshing and authentic taste.
- Chill the glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cool for longer.
- Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously to properly mix all the ingredients and chill the cocktail.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Seafood: The acidity of grapefruit juice complements the brininess of fresh oysters and grilled shrimp.
- Salads: A light, leafy green salad with vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the freshness of the cocktail.
- Poultry: Try it with grilled chicken or turkey sandwiches where the citrus notes can cut through the richness.
- Cheese: Soft cheeses like goat cheese can be enhanced by the cocktail's crispness.
Drink Pairings
- Water: Always a good idea to stay hydrated when enjoying alcoholic drinks.
- Iced Tea: Non-alcoholic, refreshing and not too sweet will work alongside the Grapefruit Crush.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in Grapefruit Crush
- Vodka: Can be replaced with gin for a different flavor profile.
- Grapefruit juice: Can be substituted with other citrus juices like orange or lemon.
- Triple sec: If not available, you can use any other orange liqueur.
Explore all drinks starting with G here
And of course - twists🍹
Rosemary Grapefruit Crush
- Replace mint with a sprig of rosemary.
- Add a rosemary-infused simple syrup instead of regular.
- The rosemary will give an herbal twist to the citrusy profile, creating a more savory experience.
Spicy Grapefruit Crush
- Muddle a slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
- The spiciness from the jalapeño will add a kick that complements the tartness of the grapefruit, offering a bold twist.
Sunset Crush
- Add a splash of cranberry juice for color.
- Use a lemon-lime soda instead of soda water.
- These changes create a layered drink with a pink hue and a sweeter, more festive flavor. Great for summer evenings!
In case you forgot basics how to make Grapefruit Crush
The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.
Learn everything about simple syrupAdd your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Grapefruit Crush
What makes this cocktail a 'Crush' cocktail?
A 'Crush' cocktail comes from a style of mixed drinks that often incorporate fresh fruit and fruit juice. The Grapefruit Crush cocktail derives its name from the use of fresh grapefruit juice.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Grapefruit Crush?
Yes, it's possible to make a mocktail version of the Grapefruit Crush. You can skip the alcohol (vodka and triple sec) and replace it with extra soda water or a non-alcoholic substitute.
Is there a specific type of vodka best suited for the Grapefruit Crush cocktail?
While there isn't a specific type of vodka you have to use, many people prefer using citrus-flavored vodka to further enhance the citrusy taste of the cocktail. Though, any type of vodka will work just fine.
Can I pre-make the Grapefruit Crush cocktail for a party or does it have to be served immediately?
While it's always best to serve the cocktail fresh, you can pre-make the vodka, grapefruit juice, triple sec, and simple syrup mixture. Just leave out the soda water and garnish until right before serving to maintain its fizzy freshness.
Are there any other cocktails similar to the Grapefruit Crush?
There are other variations of the 'Crush' cocktail that use different fruits like the Orange Crush and the Lemon Crush. They essentially follow the same recipe but swap out grapefruit for other citruses.
More similar recipes to Grapefruit Crush!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
grapefruitPin It
Seabreeze
The Seabreeze cocktail is a refreshing, fruity, and slightly tart drink. It has a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of bitterness from the grapefruit juice. The cranberry juice adds a touch of sweetness, while the vodka provides a smooth, clean finish.
Grapefruit Margarita
The Grapefruit Margarita is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter flavors. The tartness of the grapefruit juice is complemented by the sweetness of the agave syrup and the tangy lime juice. The tequila adds a bold, earthy undertone, while the salt rim enhances the overall taste experience.
Margarita
The Margarita is a well-balanced cocktail with a bright, citrusy flavor. It is both sweet and sour, with the tanginess of lime juice complementing the sweetness of the orange liqueur. The tequila adds a strong, earthy backbone, while the salt rim enhances the overall taste and adds a savory touch.
Daiquiri
The Daiquiri is a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet cocktail with a hint of citrus. It has a light and crisp taste, making it perfect for warm weather or as an aperitif.
Pina Colada
The Piña Colada is a sweet, creamy, and fruity cocktail with a smooth texture. The flavors of pineapple and coconut blend harmoniously, creating a tropical taste sensation. The rum adds a subtle warmth and depth to the drink.
Kamikaze
The Kamikaze cocktail has a refreshing, tangy taste with a hint of sweetness. It is a well-balanced mix of sour, sweet, and strong flavors, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy citrus-based cocktails.
Corpse Reviver No. 2
The Corpse Reviver No. 2 is a well-balanced, refreshing cocktail with a complex flavor profile. It has a tart, citrusy taste from the lemon juice, a subtle sweetness from the triple sec, a herbal bitterness from the absinthe, and a crisp, dry finish from the gin.
Yellow Bird
The Yellow Bird cocktail has a sweet and fruity taste, with a hint of sourness from the lime juice. It is a well-balanced drink that is both refreshing and flavorful. The combination of rum, Galliano, and fruit juices creates a tropical and exotic flavor profile that is perfect for warm weather and beachside sipping.
Screwdriver
The Screwdriver cocktail offers a bright, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The smoothness of the vodka is complemented by the tangy and refreshing taste of the orange juice, making it a well-balanced and easy-to-drink cocktail.
Lemon Drop Martini
The Lemon Drop Martini has a bright, zesty, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of lemon juice and simple syrup creates a perfect balance of sour and sweet, while the vodka adds a smooth and strong kick. The sugar rim adds an extra touch of sweetness to each sip.
Bee's Knees
The Bee's Knees cocktail is a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and floral flavors. The honey syrup adds a rich sweetness, while the lemon juice provides a tangy, refreshing sourness. The gin's botanicals shine through, giving the drink a complex and satisfying taste.
Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing, sweet, and slightly sour cocktail with a hint of mint and a subtle rum kick. It is a well-balanced drink that is both invigorating and easy to sip.
Mint Julep
The Mint Julep has a refreshing, sweet, and slightly minty taste. It is a well-balanced cocktail with a strong bourbon backbone and a cooling, herbal finish.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing, slightly spicy, and tangy cocktail with a hint of sweetness. The combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice creates a well-balanced and invigorating flavor profile.
White Russian
The White Russian is a creamy, sweet, and slightly strong cocktail. The combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is a savory, spicy, and tangy cocktail with a strong tomato flavor. The vodka adds a subtle kick, while the Worcestershire and hot sauce provide a complex depth of flavor. The lemon juice adds a touch of acidity, and the celery salt and black pepper give it a slight earthiness.
Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan is a well-balanced cocktail with a slightly sweet, tart, and fruity taste. The combination of cranberry juice, lime, and orange liqueur creates a refreshing and zesty flavor, while the vodka adds a smooth and subtle kick.