Paul Kushner
The Electric Screwdriver is a vibrant riff on the classic brunch staple, built for both color and refreshment. Blue curaçao adds a burst of citrus and an eye-catching hue, while the familiar blend of vodka and orange juice floats above for a layered effect. Finished with bubbly Sprite and a bright garnish, this drink brings instant energy to any gathering. Inspired by shakeitupz_cocktails.
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Tasting Notes
The Electric Screwdriver combines the nostalgic brightness of orange juice with the citrusy tang of blue curaçao and a clean vodka finish. The drink opens with orange on the nose, followed by a soft citrus fizz from the Sprite. Blue curaçao contributes sweet, slightly bitter orange peel notes underneath the surface. Vodka brings a light alcoholic backbone without disrupting the fruit-forward profile. As the layers mix while sipping, flavors evolve starting citrusy and ending with mellow sweetness and light tartness. Refreshing, punchy, and colorful, this drink is ideal for those who want a fruit-forward cocktail with just enough of a kick.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare an Electric Screwdriver, you’ll need a tall glass such as a highball or Collins glass to showcase the layered effect. A bar spoon helps you float the vodka-orange layer over the blue base. A jigger ensures accurate measurements for balance and consistency. Use a mixing glass or small measuring cup to combine the vodka and orange juice before layering. You’ll also want ice cubes ready for building the drink directly in the serving glass. Finally, keep a cocktail pick or citrus knife nearby for placing the cherry and orange wedge garnish with clean presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- 4 oz Sprite
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz orange juice
Garnish:
- Orange wedge
- Maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass about two-thirds full with ice.
- Pour blue curaçao into the glass, then add the Sprite.
- In a separate cup, mix the vodka and orange juice together.
- Slowly pour the vodka-orange juice mixture over the back of a spoon into the glass, allowing it to float above the blue base.
- Garnish with an orange wedge and a maraschino cherry.
Pro Tips
- Chill all ingredients beforehand to preserve layering
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for a cleaner, less sugary finish
- Pour the vodka-orange mix slowly to maintain the color separation
- Try crushed ice for a different texture, but layering may be less defined
- Use a clear glass to show off the color contrast
- Adjust vodka to 1.5 oz for a lower-proof version
- Swap Sprite for lemon-lime soda alternatives for a flavor variation
- A bar spoon is more effective than a regular spoon for layering
- If layering breaks, stir gently for a uniform taste
- Add a citrus sugar rim for extra flair
When to Serve
The Electric Screwdriver fits casual settings and high-energy gatherings. It’s great for summer parties, game nights, and poolside afternoons when you want something fruity and refreshing without leaning too sweet. The bright layers and citrusy taste also make it a hit for themed parties, especially those featuring neon or retro color schemes. This drink comes together quickly and doesn’t require complex ingredients, making it a reliable choice when serving guests in batches. Serve it when presentation matters just as much as flavor it’s made to be noticed before the first sip.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Vodka:
- Tito’s Handmade
- Absolut
- Smirnoff No. 21
- Blue Curaçao:
- DeKuyper
- Bols
- Giffard
- Orange Juice:
- Fresh squeezed or Simply Orange
- Soda:
- Sprite or 7UP
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- 4 oz Sprite
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz orange juice
Garnish:
- Orange wedge
- Maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass about two-thirds full with ice.
- Pour blue curaçao into the glass, then add the Sprite.
- In a separate cup, mix the vodka and orange juice together.
- Slowly pour the vodka-orange juice mixture over the back of a spoon into the glass, allowing it to float above the blue base.
- Garnish with an orange wedge and a maraschino cherry.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For a more defined layered look, chill the vodka-orange juice mixture beforehand.
- Use clear ice to show off the drink’s color contrast more clearly.
- Stir gently if you prefer a blended version instead of a layered one.
