Sip on Sunshine: Easy Madras Drink Recipe to Brighten Your Day

Ever have one of those days where you just want something simple… and sunny? The madras drink swoops in like a friend who never over-complicates things. Maybe you spotted it on a brunch menu in Miami or you’ve been wondering what to do with the big bottle of cranberry juice in your fridge (yep—been there). If you’re on the hunt for more laid-back cocktails, check out this easy Bay Breeze or learn how to whip up a classic Vodka Cranberry for your next get-together. This drink is pure easy-breezy.

Ingredients

Alright, let’s get real for a second. You do not want to run to a fancy shop or buy a zillion things just to make a madras drink at home. Promise you’ll only need three things (four if you count the ice, but who’s counting, huh?). Grab: one part orange juice, one part cranberry juice, and a splash of vodka. That’s all.

Don’t obsess over finding the ‘perfect’ brand either. Any decent mid-shelf vodka works. I’ve sometimes even used leftover orange juice from breakfast—nobody noticed. Fresh orange or carton, both nail that tangy vibe. Cranberry juice, though, makes all the color and a hit of tartness, which is kind of the best part.

Steps to Make It

This does not require a shaker unless you feel super fancy (sometimes I do, not gonna lie). Take a nice tall glass—like a highball (or, uh, whatever’s clean). Fill it with ice. Add 1½ ounces of vodka. Pour in 3 ounces of cranberry juice right over the booze. Top with 3 ounces of orange juice. Stir it gently—do a little swirl with a chopstick if you want to feel quirky.

For a bonus: garnish with an orange slice or a lime wedge if you want to show off. That’s literally it. Told ya it was easy.

“I never get sick of this one! After working a long shift on summer weekends, my first stop is my kitchen for a Madras—tastes like vacation in a glass, every time.”

– Megan W., loyal Madras fan

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

You know what’s neat? This drink feels lighter than so many syrupy cocktails out there. I’m not pretending it’s a health food, though. For one average madras drink (about 7 ounces): there’s roughly 180 calories, most of it from the juice. You’ll get a little vitamin C boost thanks to the orange juice, and a hint of potassium too. The sugar, well, it sneaks in with the juice mixes—be mindful if you’re watching your intake.

If you want to lighten things up, you could use light cranberry juice or even squeeze your own OJ. It’s your world, seriously.

Serving Suggestions

For me, the madras drink fits just about everywhere, but here’s where it especially shines:

• Brunches (makes you look like you planned ahead).
• Poolside afternoons (hello, sunshine).
• Impromptu friend gatherings (zero effort, maximum compliments).
• Late-night movie marathons (seriously, you can mix it blindfolded).

Questions & Replies

You’ll Also Love

If the madras drink has you craving more sunshine in a glass, here’s what you should check next: shake up a Bay Breeze for a little pineapple twist, or go classic with a Vodka Cranberry. You can even riff with grapefruit juice if you’re feeling wild. I say experiment until you find your new favorite—life’s short!

If you’re hunting for more breakfast pairings (think easy quiches or fruity pancakes), this chill cocktail matches perfectly with every lazy weekend spread. Just sayin’.

Go On—Get Sippin’

If you’ve made it this far, the only thing between you and a super bright madras drink is your own fridge. There’s no need for bartending school or intimidating gear. You’ve seen how quick this comes together, and there’s hardly any room for messing it up (plus, I know you’ll make it your own!). For even more takes, check out this Madras Cocktail Recipe from Allrecipes, dive into The Madras Recipe on The Spruce Eats, or explore a totally different Madras Cocktail Recipe from Food.com. Promise you’ll feel a little brighter after that first sip—so go on, treat yourself.