Hi there! Thanks so much for stopping by—if you’re in the mood for a sweet, flirty little shooter that packs a flavorful punch, you’ve just found your new go-to. The Sunset Kiss Shot is bright, juicy, and as pretty as it is playful. It’s perfect for parties, girls’ night, or whenever you want a quick burst of fruity fun.
With layers of orange and cherry, this mini cocktail is like a tropical sunset in shot form—finished with a kiss of strawberry on top.
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Why You’ll Love This Shot
- Orange + cherry combo is sweet, vibrant, and irresistible
- Cherry vodka float gives it a beautiful two-tone finish
- Strawberry garnish adds a pop of color and freshness
- Quick to shake up and perfect for a party tray
- Great make-ahead option for events or celebrations
What It Tastes Like
The Sunset Kiss Shot is juicy, sweet, and silky smooth. The orange juice and Triple Sec give it that citrusy brightness up front, and the cherry vodka adds a deeper berry finish on the back. It’s fruity, lightly boozy, and perfect for sipping or shooting.
Think orange creamsicle meets cherry candy—with a real strawberry kiss on top.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Triple Sec
- 3 oz Orange Juice (fresh is best!)
- 1 oz Cherry Vodka
- 1 Fresh Strawberry (for garnish)
- Ice (for shaking)
Instructions
1. Shake the Base
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add:
- 1 oz Triple Sec
- 3 oz Orange Juice
Shake for about 10–15 seconds until the mix is chilled.
2. Strain into a Shot Glass
Strain the orange mixture into a large shot glass, filling it ¾ of the way.
3. Top with Cherry Vodka
Gently pour 1 oz cherry vodka on top. You can float it over the back of a spoon if you want a layered look.
4. Garnish & Serve
Slice or skewer a fresh strawberry and perch it on the rim. Serve immediately!
Helpful Tips
- Chill your vodka to help it float more easily.
- Use a pipette or spoon to control the cherry vodka pour for better layering.
- Make a batch: Multiply the ingredients and pour into multiple shot glasses for a party tray.
- Add sparkle: Rim the shot glass in sugar for an extra pop of fun.
Conservation and Storage for the Sunset Kiss Shot
While the Sunset Kiss Shot is best enjoyed freshly made, you can do a little prep ahead to save time during parties or gatherings. Here’s how to store components safely and maintain the vibrant flavors:
Make-Ahead Tips
- Base Mixture (Triple Sec + Orange Juice):
You can shake or stir these two together ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours in a sealed container or small pitcher. - Cherry Vodka:
Keep your cherry vodka chilled separately to help it layer better when poured on top. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
Assembly Tips Before Serving
- Do not layer the cherry vodka or add garnishes until right before serving—this keeps the visual layers fresh and the garnish bright.
- Strawberries are best sliced and added just before serving to avoid wilting or bleeding color into the drink.
Storage Instructions for Leftovers
- If you’ve already assembled shots but didn’t serve them all:
- Store them covered in the fridge without the garnish.
- Drink within 12 hours—flavor and freshness fade quickly, and the layering effect may dissolve over time.
What Not to Do
- Don’t freeze the cocktail—it will alter the texture and flavor.
- Don’t store with garnish—it will become soggy and may affect taste.
Substitutions and Variations
- No cherry vodka? Use regular vodka + a splash of grenadine or cherry syrup.
- Make it into a cocktail: Double the recipe and pour into a martini or coupe glass.
- Swap orange juice with mango or peach nectar for a tropical spin.
- Go frozen: Blend with ice for a slushy version in shot cups.
Storage Instructions
- Shake and strain base mix ahead of time and store in the fridge (without ice) for up to 24 hours.
- Add cherry vodka and garnish just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled orange juice?
You can, but fresh-squeezed orange juice adds a brighter, fresher flavor that really makes this pop.
Can I make this alcohol-free?
Yes! Use orange juice + cherry soda or cherry syrup over sparkling water.
What kind of shot glasses work best?
Use 2 oz or 3 oz shot glasses so there’s room for the layers and garnish!
Conclusion
The Sunset Kiss Shot is sweet, stunning, and ready to steal the show at your next party. With its citrusy base, cherry float, and strawberry finish, this fun little shooter is big on flavor and full of charm. Quick to make and even quicker to disappear, it’s sure to become your new go-to for cheers with flair.
Details
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 minutes
- Yield: 1 large shot
- Category: Shot, Mini Cocktail
- Method: Shaken + layered
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Keywords: cherry vodka shot, fruity shot recipe, orange cocktail, party shooter
Nutrition (Per Shot, Approximate)
- Calories: ~120
- Sugar: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~11g
- Alcohol Content: Moderate
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g