Citrus Cloud

The Citrus Cloud is a silky, citrus-forward cocktail that combines the bright bite of lemon and orange liqueur with the smooth warmth of tequila. A whipped egg white gives the drink its signature frothy top and creamy texture, making each sip feel light and airy. Served in a chilled coupe and finished with a twist of orange zest, this cocktail is refined, refreshing, and perfectly balanced between tart and smooth.

---

Tasting Notes

The Citrus Cloud is smooth, citrus-forward, and refreshingly bright. Tequila gives it structure and warmth, while Cointreau adds a soft orange sweetness. Fresh lemon juice sharpens the profile with acidity, keeping it crisp. The egg white creates a rich, airy foam that adds texture without muting the drink’s tart, clean flavor. The final twist of orange peel adds a fragrant burst that enhances both aroma and taste. It’s a silky yet punchy cocktail with a soft mouthfeel and a bright citrus profile, offering a balanced contrast between the tequila’s earthy core and the sharp lemon.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare the Citrus Cloud, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, strainer, and a coupe glass. A two-part shaker is essential for both the dry and wet shakes first without ice to incorporate the egg white, then with ice to chill the drink. A fine strainer is used to remove ice shards and achieve a smooth finish. The coupe glass adds a classic presentation and showcases the frothy top. For garnish, have a citrus peeler or paring knife ready to prepare the lemon twist that finishes the drink with a burst of aromatic oil.

Ingredients

• 1.75 oz tequila
• 0.75 oz Cointreau
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 egg white
• Garnish: lemon peel

Instructions

• Add tequila, Cointreau, lemon juice, and egg white to a cocktail shaker.
• Dry shake (without ice) for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
• Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well chilled, about 15 seconds more.
• Fine strain into a chilled coupe glass.
• Twist an lemon peel over the surface to express the oils, and use it as a garnish.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for better balance
• Dry shake vigorously for a stable foam layer
• Crack the egg fresh for the best texture
• Use a fine mesh strainer to remove ice chips
• Chill your coupe glass in advance
• Shake long enough with ice to cool thoroughly
• Express lemon peel directly over foam for aroma
• Use high-quality Cointreau for cleaner citrus notes
• Taste before straining adjust lemon if needed
• Pour in one steady stream to preserve the foam

When to Serve

The Citrus Cloud works best as a dinner party opener or a signature cocktail at intimate gatherings. With its frothy texture and citrus profile, it fits well into spring and summer menus, especially brunch or early evening affairs. It’s a good pick when you want something citrusy but more refined than a Margarita. Its presentation also makes it a conversation starter, ideal for cocktail hours where guests appreciate something a bit unexpected yet approachable.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Tequila:
  • Espolòn Blanco
  • Olmeca Altos Plata
  • El Tesoro Blanco
  • Cazadores Blanco
  • Fortaleza Blanco
• Orange Liqueur (Cointreau alternatives):
  • Cointreau
  • Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
  • Grand Marnier (for a richer twist)
  • Combier Liqueur d’Orange
  • Patrón Citrónge

Similar Cocktails

• Aperol Blood Orange Sour
• Matcha Gin Sour
• Aperol Fizz
• The Sunflower
• Limoncello Mezcal Sour