Okay, I’ll admit it — I first ordered the Red Bull Sunrise at Buffalo Wild Wings because I was tired and needed a little pick-me-up with my wings. But y’all… that drink totally surprised me. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and citrusy, fizzy from the Red Bull, and just the right amount of fun when you want a drink that’s bold but still refreshing.
So, I had to try recreating it at home — and now it’s kind of my go-to drink for game nights, cookouts, or when I want something that feels like a cocktail but doesn’t knock me out. It looks gorgeous, tastes like summer, and takes less than 5 minutes to make. Honestly, it’s a hit every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love tropical drinks with a pop of color and energy, the Red Bull Sunrise is going to be your new favorite. This Buffalo Wild Wings copycat combines smooth orange juice, vibrant grenadine, and the unmistakable zing of Red Bull for a drink that’s fruity, fizzy, and full of personality.
You’ll love that it looks like a cocktail but is actually super light and energizing. Perfect for brunches, parties, or even a backyard hangout — and it’s totally customizable. Whether you add a splash of alcohol or keep it mocktail-style, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup orange juice (pulp-free for best layering)
- 1 can (8.4 oz) Red Bull (regular or sugar-free)
- 1–2 tablespoons grenadine
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice and maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)
Optional (for adult version):
- 1½ oz tequila, vodka, or rum
Pro Tips
- Chill everything first — especially the Red Bull — for best fizz and color separation.
- Pour grenadine slowly down the side or use a spoon to get that beautiful layered effect.
- Use pulp-free orange juice for a cleaner presentation and better mixing.
- Don’t stir if you want the “sunrise” look — the grenadine will settle and create that gradient naturally.
- Serve immediately to keep the ice from diluting the drink too quickly.
Tools You’ll Need
- Tall glass (highball or pint)
- Measuring jigger or small measuring cup
- Bar spoon or teaspoon
- Cocktail shaker (optional if adding alcohol)
- Straw or stirrer
- Ice cube tray (or crushed ice if you prefer)
Substitutions & Variations
- Juice options: Swap orange juice with pineapple, mango, or a citrus blend.
- Low sugar: Use sugar-free Red Bull and light grenadine.
- Spiked version: Add vodka, tequila, or even a splash of coconut rum for tropical vibes.
- Mocktail twist: Use a splash of coconut water or club soda in place of alcohol.
- Frozen version: Blend everything with ice for a slushy-style sunrise.
Make Ahead Tips
This drink is best made fresh and served cold, but you can prep your ingredients ahead.
- Juice and grenadine can be measured and stored in the fridge.
- Chill the Red Bull and fruit garnishes ahead of time.
- Set up a little “drink bar” for guests to assemble their own glasses at parties.
If making in batches, mix orange juice and Red Bull first, then pour grenadine individually into each glass for the sunrise effect.
Instructions
1. Fill Your Glass
Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, about ¾ full. The ice helps with that pretty layer separation.
2. Add Orange Juice
Pour in ½ cup of orange juice directly over the ice.
3. Pour the Red Bull
Slowly add the can of Red Bull. Pour gently so you don’t lose too much fizz.
4. Add the Grenadine
Carefully pour 1–2 tablespoons of grenadine down the inside of the glass or over the back of a spoon. It’ll sink to the bottom and create that red “sunrise” layer.
5. Garnish and Serve
Top with an orange slice and a cherry if you’d like. Serve with a straw, but don’t stir if you want to keep the layered look.
Optional: Add your spirit of choice before pouring the Red Bull if making the adult version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with wings, nachos, or sliders for a game-day snack.
- Serve at brunch with breakfast tacos or a breakfast board.
- Add to a mocktail bar at a party with fruit skewers and sparkling water.
- Make a frozen version in a blender for hot summer days.
- Add a salted or Tajín rim for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Leftovers & Storage
Because of the carbonation and ice, this drink doesn’t store well — it’s made to be enjoyed immediately.
However, you can prep the juice and grenadine mix ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just add ice and Red Bull when ready to serve.
Avoid mixing everything early or the drink will go flat and lose that fresh flavor.
Nutrition & Benefits
This Red Bull Sunrise isn’t a health drink, but it’s a fun occasional treat that delivers energy and hydration in a refreshing, fruity way. Orange juice offers vitamin C and natural sweetness, while Red Bull gives a quick caffeine boost — ideal for long parties or brunches when you need a little lift.
You can easily control the sugar content by using sugar-free Red Bull and reducing the grenadine. And when you make it at home, you know exactly what’s going in your glass.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I make this without Red Bull?
Yes — use a lemon-lime soda or sparkling water for a caffeine-free version.
2. Is this drink alcoholic?
Not by default! It’s a mocktail, but you can add liquor to make it a cocktail.
3. How do I keep the colors from mixing?
Pour the grenadine slowly and don’t stir. The syrup sinks to the bottom for that signature look.
4. What kind of orange juice should I use?
Go with pulp-free, 100% juice for the best flavor and cleanest appearance.
5. Can I batch this for a party?
Yes, but pour the grenadine into each glass individually for the layered effect. The rest can be premixed.
One Sip Feels Like Summer
This Red Bull Sunrise is the kind of drink that feels festive, even if you’re just sitting on your back porch after a long day. It’s fruity, energizing, and honestly — it’s kind of a showstopper with those sunset vibes in a glass. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it at a party, it’s one of those easy recipes that makes a big impression.