14 Grapefruit Cocktails to Try

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Craving a cocktail with a refreshing twist? Grapefruit’s bold, tangy flavor is the perfect way to elevate your drink game. In this article, you’ll discover 14 expertly crafted grapefruit cocktail recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste for something crisp, zesty, and unique. Let’s dive in and shake up your cocktail routine with these citrusy delights.

Grapefruit Cocktails

Paloma

Paloma

The Paloma is a delightful grapefruit cocktail.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz. tequila
  • 1 oz. fresh lime juice
  • 2 oz. fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 oz. agave syrup or simple syrup
  • Grapefruit soda
  • Salt for rimming
  • Grapefruit slice and lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Moisten the rim of a glass with a grapefruit slice.
  2. Dip the rim in salt.
  3. Fill the glass with ice.
  4. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and syrup.
  5. Shake for 30 seconds.
  6. Pour the mixture into the glass.
  7. Top with grapefruit soda.
  8. Garnish with grapefruit slice and lime wedge.

For a quick Paloma, you can mix the ingredients directly in the glass. 

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Greyhound

Greyhound

The Greyhound is a classic grapefruit cocktail that is simple yet refreshing. It is made with just two main ingredients: grapefruit juice and either gin or vodka.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 ounces gin or vodka
  • 4 ounces fresh grapefruit juice
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Fill a shaker with ice.
  2. Add 1 1/2 ounces of gin or vodka.
  3. Pour in 4 ounces of grapefruit juice.
  4. Shake well.
  5. Strain the mix into a glass filled with ice.

You can use various glasses to serve the Greyhound. Options include a rocks glass, Collins glass, or a highball glass.

For a twist on the classic, try adding a dash of simple syrup or maple syrup to balance the tartness.

Optional ingredients like fruit bitters and flavored vodkas can elevate the drink. Pair grapefruit juice with flavors such as coconut, melon, or raspberry.

Adding a fizzy element like club soda can give the Greyhound a refreshing sparkle.

If you prefer a sweeter drink, lemon-lime soda or ginger ale can mellow the drink’s tartness.

Adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences.

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Salty Dog

Salty Dog

The Salty Dog is a classic cocktail known for its refreshing taste and simple ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz gin or vodka
  • 4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • Salt for rimming the glass
  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glass: Rim the edge of a highball glass with salt. To do this, rub a lime or lemon wedge around the rim and dip it into salt.
  2. Mix: Fill the glass with ice. Pour 2 oz of gin or vodka over the ice.
  3. Add Juice: Add 4 oz of fresh grapefruit juice to the glass.
  4. Stir & Serve: Stir gently to mix the ingredients. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge if desired.

You can also make a non-alcoholic version by substituting the gin or vodka with sparkling water. This results in a light, refreshing beverage perfect for hot days.

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Grapefruit Margarita

Grapefruit Margarita

A Grapefruit Margarita is bright and refreshing. It blends citrus flavors with the depth of tequila. This cocktail is perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces tequila
  • 1 ounce fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 ounce lime juice
  • 1/2 ounce simple syrup
  • Salt or tajín for rimming
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Rim: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim in salt or tajín.
  2. Mix Ingredients: Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.
  3. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice cubes. Shake well until chilled.
  4. Serve: Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with a grapefruit slice or lime wedge.

The tangy flavor of the grapefruit juice is balanced by the lime and sweetened by the simple syrup. The tequila adds depth and warmth. The salt or tajín on the rim enhances each sip. 

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Grapefruit Martini

Grapefruit Martini

A Grapefruit Martini is a refreshing and tangy cocktail. Ideal for summer evenings, it combines the zesty flavor of grapefruit with the smoothness of vodka. Follow these steps to create the perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz Cointreau
  • 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • Ice
  • Sugar (for rimming, optional)

Instructions

  1. If you want to rim the cocktail glass with sugar:
    • Rub a piece of grapefruit on the rim of the martini glass.
    • Dip the rim into a small plate with sugar.
    • Let it dry while you prepare the cocktail.
  2. Add vodka, Cointreau, and fresh grapefruit juice to a cocktail shaker.
  3. Add ice to the shaker.
  4. Shake well until the mixture is cold.
  5. Strain the drink into the prepared martini glass.

View Recipe

Grapefruit Mojito

A Grapefruit Mojito adds a citrus twist to the classic mojito. This refreshing cocktail balances the tartness of grapefruit with the minty, sweet flavors of a traditional mojito.

To make a Grapefruit Mojito, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 oz white rum
  • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons simple syrup
  • 6-8 fresh mint leaves
  • Club soda (or sparkling water)
  • Ice
  • Grapefruit wedge and mint sprig for garnish

Here’s how to prepare it:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, add mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup.
  2. Muddle to release the mint’s aroma and oils.
  3. Pour in the grapefruit juice and white rum.
  4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
  5. Strain the mixture into an ice-filled glass.
  6. Top with club soda or sparkling water.
  7. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and mint sprig.

Enjoy this light and invigorating drink on a warm day. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.

Grapefruit Negroni

Grapefruit Negroni

The Grapefruit Negroni is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. It combines the bitter notes of a traditional Negroni with the bright, tangy flavor of grapefruit.

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz gin
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 1 oz Campari
  • Fresh grapefruit juice
  • Grapefruit peel for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Grapefruit: Squeeze fresh grapefruit juice and reserve a peel for garnish.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and a splash of grapefruit juice to a shaker with ice.
  3. Shake: Shake until well-chilled.
  4. Prepare Glass: Place a large ice block in a rocks glass.
  5. Strain: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
  6. Garnish: Curl the grapefruit peel around the inside of the glass.

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Grapefruit Fizz

Grapefruit Fizz

A grapefruit fizz is a refreshing cocktail that combines the tartness of grapefruit with the effervescence of soda water. This drink is perfect for hot summer days or as a crisp evening refreshment.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 ounces gin
  • 1 ounce freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 ounce honey syrup
  • 1 egg white (optional for froth)
  • Soda water

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Squeeze fresh grapefruit juice. Measure out the gin, honey syrup, and egg white if using.
  2. Combine in Shaker: Add gin, grapefruit juice, honey syrup, and egg white to a shaker filled with ice.
  3. Shake Vigorously: Shake for at least one minute.
  4. Strain into a Glass: Strain the mixture into a chilled glass.
  5. Top with Soda Water: Add soda water to create fizz.
  6. Garnish: Garnish with a small wedge of grapefruit or a twist of grapefruit peel.

Tips:

  • Use fresh grapefruit juice for the best flavor.
  • Try different gins for subtle taste variations.
  • Omit the egg white if you prefer a simpler drink.

View Recipe

Grapefruit Mimosa

Grapefruit Mimosa

A Grapefruit Mimosa is a refreshing twist on the classic mimosa. This cocktail combines the tartness of grapefruit juice with the elegance of champagne. Perfect for brunches or celebrations, it offers a delightful alternative to the traditional orange juice variant.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • 1 bottle champagne or sparkling wine
  • 1 tablespoon simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
  • Grapefruit slices or mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Chill the glassware. Ensure your champagne flutes are cold.
  2. Pour grapefruit juice. Fill each flute halfway with grapefruit juice.
  3. Add simple syrup (optional). Stir gently if you prefer a sweeter drink.
  4. Top with champagne. Slowly pour champagne or sparkling wine to fill the glass.
  5. Garnish. Add a slice of grapefruit or mint leaf for a decorative touch.

You can customize your Grapefruit Mimosa by adjusting the sweetness or adding different garnishes.

The freshness of the grapefruit juice complements the bubbles, making this drink both vibrant and sophisticated. 

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Grapefruit Gin And Tonic

Grapefruit Gin And Tonic

A Grapefruit Gin and Tonic is a refreshing twist on the classic gin and tonic.

To make this delightful drink, first gather your ingredients:

  • 2 oz grapefruit-flavored gin
  • 1 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • Tonic water
  • Ice
  • Optional: Lime wedge, rosemary sprig, grapefruit slices

Instructions:

  1. Fill a glass with ice.
  2. Pour the gin and grapefruit juice over the ice.
  3. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Top off with tonic water.
  5. Garnish with a lime wedge, a rosemary sprig, or grapefruit slices as desired.

This easy-to-make cocktail is perfect for any occasion.

The tartness of the grapefruit pairs well with the botanicals in the gin, adding complexity to the drink. The tonic water balances the flavors, making it a refreshing choice.

For a variation, try the Grapefruit Basil Gin and Tonic. It uses fresh basil to add an aromatic touch.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz grapefruit-flavored gin
  • 1 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • Tonic water
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Muddle a few basil leaves in a glass.
  2. Fill the glass with ice.
  3. Add the gin and grapefruit juice.
  4. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Top off with tonic water and garnish with additional basil leaves.

This version offers a fragrant and vibrant twist on the original, enhancing your cocktail experience.

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Grapefruit Sour

A Grapefruit Sour makes for a refreshing and invigorating cocktail. It’s the perfect blend of tangy grapefruit and the smoothness of your favorite spirit.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
  • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • Ice cubes
  • Grapefruit slice for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add bourbon, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
  2. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice cubes. Shake well until chilled.
  3. Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
  4. Garnish: Add a slice of grapefruit to the rim of the glass.

Quick Tips:

  • Use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the simple syrup to your taste for sweetness.
  • Serve immediately for optimal freshness and taste.

Grapefruit Spritz

Grapefruit Spritz is a vibrant, refreshing cocktail. It combines the tartness of grapefruit with the bubbly effervescence of Prosecco or sparkling wine. Perfect for summer afternoons or brunch.

Classic Grapefruit Spritz Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 4 oz. Prosecco or sparkling wine
  • 1½ oz. grapefruit juice
  • ½ oz. Aperol
  • ½ oz. vodka
  • Ice cubes
  • Grapefruit slice for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
  2. Add Prosecco, grapefruit juice, Aperol, and vodka.
  3. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with a grapefruit slice.

Elderflower Grapefruit Spritz:

Ingredients:

  • 3 oz. Prosecco
  • 2 oz. grapefruit juice
  • 1 oz. elderflower liqueur
  • Ice cubes
  • Mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
  2. Pour Prosecco, grapefruit juice, and elderflower liqueur.
  3. Stir well.
  4. Garnish with a mint sprig.

Grapefruit Gin Spritz:

Grapefruit Gin Spritz

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz. gin
  • 2 oz. freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • 3 oz. tonic water or soda water
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh thyme sprig for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a glass with ice.
  2. Add gin and grapefruit juice.
  3. Top with tonic or soda water.
  4. Stir gently.
  5. Garnish with a thyme sprig.

View Recipe

Ruby Red Collins

The Ruby Red Collins is a refreshing grapefruit cocktail. It combines the tartness of grapefruit juice with the effervescence of soda water. Perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz gin
  • 1 oz ruby red grapefruit juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • Club soda
  • Ice
  • Grapefruit slice for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a shaker with ice.
  2. Add gin, ruby red grapefruit juice, and simple syrup.
  3. Shake until well-chilled.
  4. Fill a tall glass with ice.
  5. Strain the mixture into the glass.
  6. Top with club soda.
  7. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.

Grapefruit Caipirinha

Grapefruit Caipirinha

The Grapefruit Caipirinha offers a refreshing twist on the classic Brazilian cocktail. The tartness of grapefruit complements the sweetness of the sugar.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 grapefruit, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 2 ounces cachaça
  • Ice cubes
  • Mint leaves (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Place grapefruit chunks and lime wedges in a glass.
  2. Add the sugar.
  3. Muddle the fruit and sugar together.
  4. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
  5. Pour in the cachaça and stir well.
  6. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

View Recipe

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