Tropical Sunrise Shot

The Tropical Sunrise Shot is a vibrant, layered shooter that packs the flavor of a tiki cocktail into one tiny, colorful glass. With tropical juices, fruity liqueurs, and a layered visual of sunset tones and blue ocean skies, this shot is a party-ready stunner. It’s fruity, fun, and surprisingly balanced with a touch of sweetness and tang.

Ingredients

• 0.5 oz vodka
• 0.25 oz blue curaçao
• 0.25 oz banana liqueur
• 0.25 oz pineapple juice
• 0.25 oz orange juice
• A dash of grenadine
• A splash of V8 Tropical Blend (for added fruitiness and body)
• Ice (for shaking)

this RECIPE

Instructions

1. Shake the Base

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine:

• Vodka
• Banana liqueur
• Pineapple juice
• Orange juice
• V8 Tropical Blend
  Shake well for 10–15 seconds until chilled and well-mixed.

2. Strain

Strain the mixture into a shot glass, leaving room at the top for layering.

3. Add the Grenadine

Slowly pour a dash of grenadine down the side of the glass or use a spoon to help it sink — it will settle at the bottom, creating a red “sunrise” layer.

4. Add Blue Curaçao

Carefully float the blue curaçao on top by gently pouring it over the back of a spoon. It should layer above the tropical blend, creating a distinct blue top.

Notes

• Use a clear shot glass to show off the layering effect.
• Chill all ingredients before mixing for the cleanest layers.
• For a sweeter shot, add a splash more pineapple juice.
• Want it creamier? Add a touch of coconut milk and shake with the base.

Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 shot
• Category: Shots / Mini Cocktails
• Method: Shaken + Layered
• Cuisine: Tropical Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian
• Keywords: layered shot, tropical shot, blue curaçao, banana liqueur shot, V8 cocktail, sunset shot

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Measuring jigger or bar spoon
• Shot glass (preferably clear)
• Bar spoon (for layering)

Nutrition (Per Shot – Approximate)

• Calories: ~95
• Sugar: ~8g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: ~10mg
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Helpful Tips

• To layer like a pro, use the back of a spoon and pour very slowly.
• Keep your blue curaçao and grenadine chilled—they’ll layer more cleanly.
• Make it a mini cocktail by doubling the ingredients and serving over ice in a rocks glass.
• A tiny lime wedge or orange zest on the rim makes it extra special.

Conservation and Storage

• This shot is best served immediately after layering to maintain the gradient effect.
• You can pre-shake the base mix (without layering) and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day.
• Do not add grenadine or blue curaçao until serving.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Banana liqueur: Try peach schnapps or coconut rum
• V8 Tropical Blend: Use mango nectar, guava juice, or passion fruit juice
• Blue curaçao: Replace with triple sec + blue food coloring

Variations

• Add a tiny scoop of crushed ice and serve in a small rocks glass for a tiki-style shooter
• Rim the glass with colored sugar for an extra festive touch
• Turn it into a mocktail shot using flavored syrups and juice blends

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a batch of these?

You can batch the base (vodka + juices) and chill. Layer each shot individually when serving for best visual effect.

What’s the best way to float the blue curaçao?

Use the back of a bar spoon, held just above the surface of the drink, and pour the curaçao very slowly.

Is this shot strong?

It’s moderate in strength—more of a fruit-forward, flavorful shot than a heavy hitter.

Conclusion

The Tropical Sunrise Shot brings bold flavor and visual wow factor in every sip. From the vibrant red base to the cool blue topper, it’s fruity, refreshing, and almost too pretty to drink (but you’ll definitely want to). It’s the perfect addition to summer gatherings, island-themed nights, or whenever you need a quick escape—no passport required.

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