Screwdriver Drink Recipe (2024)

Do you know how to make a screwdriver? This easy co*cktail recipe is a simple combination of orange juice and vodka. The screwdriver is a classic favorite. It ranks right up there with one of our other orange juice co*cktail favorites, the Tequila Sunrise.

Why is this a brunch co*cktail?

A screwdriver can be enjoyed any time of the day, even in the morning, just like a Bloody Mary. Some may even call it a hangover cure. The only word of caution I have for you is this. Oranges and orange juice are high in carbs, so enjoy in moderation for both reasons – carbs and drinking responsibly!

Why is it called a screwdriver drink?

It is said that the screwdriver co*cktail got its name from American oil workers in the Persian Gulf who were slipping vodka into their orange juice. They used what they had on hand to stir their concoction.. a screwdriver!

While there are other mentions of this orange juice and vodka mixture from the World War I era, that’s about all the history there is on this popular drink.

Ingredients needed:

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

• Vodka – while you could use any vodka for this recipe, a higher quality spirit is best.
• Orange juice – it goes without saying the fresh squeezed orange juice is best, but bottled will do just fine.
• Ice – Use ice cubes rather than crushed ice so that it melts slower and doesn’t water down your drink.
• Garnish – Traditionally this drink is garnished with an orange slice or wedge.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

• Highball glasses
• Jigger
• Cutting board
• Chefs knife

How to Make a Screwdriver Drink

Please scroll down to simply print out the recipe!

1. 1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
   2. Pour the vodka over the ice in the glass.
   3. Add the orange juice to the highball glass.
   4. Give it a swirl with a spoon to mix the liquids.
   5. Garnish with an orange slice or wedge.

You’ll notice that our recipe uses 2-ounces of vodka and 6-ounces of orange juice. The classic Screwdriver recipe uses a 1:2 ratio of vodka to orange juice. That might be a bit strong, especially if this is the first time you’ve tried the drink. You can adjust to your tastes.

When to serve this favorite

• Screwdrivers are popular for brunch, and like the Bloody Mary, on morning flights!
• They are also great for tailgating and backyard parties.
• Instead of premixing, provide a pitcher of orange juice, glasses, a bucket of ice, a bottle of vodka, and a shot glass for measuring. This way guests can adjust the alcohol to their own preferences.

More co*cktails you might like

• If you love vodka and citrus in a mixed drink, be sure and try our Appletini co*cktail.
• Perfect for brunch, the classic Mimosa is another one for orange juice lovers.
• Since we’re talking brunch, this Lavender Rose Spritzer would be perfect for Mother’s Day.
• Pineapple Prosecco Punch is another great choice when it comes to daytime celebrations!
• Our Lemon Drop recipe is another classic that everyone loves, the perfect sweet co*cktail for all occasions!
• A delicious brandy co*cktail, this Sidecar co*cktail recipeis a classic for a reason!

Speaking of Mother’s Day and oranges, try my DIY Orange Bath Salt, it is easy to make and is a great gift idea!

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