The Screwdriver cocktail is a classic and simple drink that combines the refreshing taste of orange juice with the smooth kick of vodka. Perfect for brunch or a relaxing evening, this cocktail is both easy to make and delicious to enjoy.
The ingredients for this recipe are quite common and should be easily found in most supermarkets. However, if you prefer a premium experience, opt for freshly squeezed orange juice instead of store-bought. This will elevate the flavor of your Screwdriver cocktail.

Ingredients For Screwdriver Cocktail Recipe
Vodka: A clear distilled alcoholic beverage that forms the base of the cocktail.
Orange juice: Freshly squeezed juice from oranges, providing a sweet and tangy flavor.
Technique Tip for This Cocktail
When preparing a Screwdriver cocktail, always use freshly squeezed orange juice instead of store-bought juice. The natural sweetness and acidity of fresh juice elevate the drink's flavor profile, making it more vibrant and refreshing. Additionally, consider using a high-quality vodka to ensure a smooth and clean taste.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
vodka - Substitute with gin: Gin provides a different botanical flavor profile but maintains the alcoholic content.
vodka - Substitute with white rum: White rum offers a slightly sweeter and lighter taste, making it a good alternative.
freshly squeezed orange juice - Substitute with tangerine juice: Tangerine juice has a similar citrus flavor but is slightly sweeter and less acidic.
freshly squeezed orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice adds a tropical twist while maintaining the fruity and refreshing quality.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cocktail
How To Store / Freeze This Cocktail
To keep your Screwdriver cocktail fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the vibrant flavors of the freshly squeezed orange juice and vodka.
If you plan to prepare the cocktail in advance, mix the vodka and orange juice together, then store the mixture in a sealed bottle or jar. This prevents any unwanted flavors from seeping in.
For a quick and refreshing drink, you can pre-mix the Screwdriver cocktail and pour it into ice cube trays. Freeze the mixture, and when you're ready to enjoy, simply pop a few cubes into a glass and let them melt for a perfectly chilled drink.
To preserve the taste and quality, avoid storing the Screwdriver cocktail for more than 24 hours in the refrigerator. The orange juice can lose its freshness and the flavors may start to degrade.
If you want to add a twist to your Screwdriver cocktail, consider freezing some orange slices to use as ice cubes. This not only keeps your drink cold but also enhances the citrus flavor as the orange slices melt.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can infuse the vodka with orange zest before mixing it with the orange juice. Store the infused vodka in a cool, dark place for up to a week to allow the flavors to meld.
When freezing the Screwdriver cocktail, make sure to leave some space at the top of the container or ice cube tray, as liquids expand when frozen. This prevents any spills or container breakage.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply store the freshly squeezed orange juice in the refrigerator and add vodka when you're ready to serve. This keeps the juice fresh and allows you to control the alcohol content.
How To Reheat Leftovers
- pour the vodka and orange juice mixture into a heat-resistant glass or mug.
- gently warm the mixture using a double boiler method. place the glass in a pot of simmering water, ensuring the water level is below the rim of the glass. stir occasionally until it reaches a pleasant warmth.
- alternatively, use a microwave-safe container. heat on low power in 10-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the desired temperature is achieved.
- for a more aromatic experience, add a splash of cinnamon or a hint of clove while reheating.
- garnish with a warm orange slice or a twist of orange peel for an extra touch of flavor.
Best Tools for This Cocktail
Glass: A sturdy container to hold your cocktail, preferably a highball or rocks glass.
Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and keeping it refreshing.
Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure you get the right amount of vodka.
Stirring spoon: Used to mix the vodka and orange juice thoroughly.
Knife: Necessary for cutting the orange slice garnish.
Cutting board: A safe surface to slice the orange.
Juicer: Handy for extracting fresh orange juice.
How to Save Time on Making This Cocktail
Use pre-squeezed juice: Opt for store-bought orange juice to save time on squeezing fresh oranges.
Batch preparation: Mix a larger quantity of vodka and orange juice in a pitcher to serve multiple guests quickly.
Pre-chill ingredients: Keep your vodka and orange juice in the fridge so they are already cold, reducing the need for ice.
Simple garnish: Pre-slice orange slices and store them in the fridge for quick garnishing.

Screwdriver Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Vodka
- 3 oz Orange Juice freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the vodka and orange juice.
- Stir well to combine.
- Garnish with an orange slice if desired.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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