Screwdriver Drink Recipe

Do you know how to make a screwdriver? This easy cocktail recipe is a simple combination of orange juice and vodka. The screwdriver is a classic favorite. It ranks right up there with one of our other orange juice cocktail favorites, the Tequila Sunrise.

Why is this a brunch cocktail?

A screwdriver can be enjoyed any time of the day, even in the morning, just like a Bloody Mary. Some may even call it a hangover cure. The only word of caution I have for you is this. Oranges and orange juice are high in carbs, so enjoy in moderation for both reasons – carbs and drinking responsibly!

Why is it called a screwdriver drink?

It is said that the screwdriver cocktail got its name from American oil workers in the Persian Gulf who were slipping vodka into their orange juice. They used what they had on hand to stir their concoction.. a screwdriver!

While there are other mentions of this orange juice and vodka mixture from the World War I era, that’s about all the history there is on this popular drink.

Ingredients needed:

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

• Vodka – while you could use any vodka for this recipe, a higher quality spirit is best.
• Orange juice – it goes without saying the fresh squeezed orange juice is best, but bottled will do just fine.
• Ice – Use ice cubes rather than crushed ice so that it melts slower and doesn’t water down your drink.
• Garnish – Traditionally this drink is garnished with an orange slice or wedge.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

• Highball glasses
• Jigger
• Cutting board
• Chefs knife

How to Make a Screwdriver Drink

Please scroll down to simply print out the recipe!

1. 1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
   2. Pour the vodka over the ice in the glass.
   3. Add the orange juice to the highball glass.
   4. Give it a swirl with a spoon to mix the liquids.
   5. Garnish with an orange slice or wedge.

You’ll notice that our recipe uses 2-ounces of vodka and 6-ounces of orange juice. The classic Screwdriver recipe uses a 1:2 ratio of vodka to orange juice. That might be a bit strong, especially if this is the first time you’ve tried the drink. You can adjust to your tastes.

When to serve this favorite

• Screwdrivers are popular for brunch, and like the Bloody Mary, on morning flights!
• They are also great for tailgating and backyard parties.
• Instead of premixing, provide a pitcher of orange juice, glasses, a bucket of ice, a bottle of vodka, and a shot glass for measuring. This way guests can adjust the alcohol to their own preferences.

More cocktails you might like

• If you love vodka and citrus in a mixed drink, be sure and try our Appletini cocktail.
• Perfect for brunch, the classic Mimosa is another one for orange juice lovers.
• Since we’re talking brunch, this Lavender Rose Spritzer would be perfect for Mother’s Day.
• Pineapple Prosecco Punch is another great choice when it comes to daytime celebrations!
• Our Lemon Drop recipe is another classic that everyone loves, the perfect sweet cocktail for all occasions!
• A delicious brandy cocktail, this Sidecar Cocktail recipe is a classic for a reason!

Speaking of Mother’s Day and oranges, try my DIY Orange Bath Salt, it is easy to make and is a great gift idea!

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Screwdriver Drink

If you've ever wondered how to make a screwdriver this simple cocktail recipe will show you how. A simple combination of orange juice and vodka, the screwdriver is a classic favorite.

5 from 3 votes

IMPORTANT - There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!

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Course: Cocktails

Cuisine: American

Servings: 1 cocktail

3 minutes mins

Calories: 207

Author: Amanda Davis

Ingredients

• ▢ 2 oz vodka
• ▢ 6 oz orange juice
• ▢ Ice
• ▢ Orange slice or wedge

Things You'll Need

• ▢
  Highball glasses
• ▢
  Jigger

Before You Begin

You'll notice that our recipe uses 2-ounces of vodka and 6-ounces of orange juice. The classic Screwdriver recipe uses a 1:2 ratio of vodka to orange juice. That might be a bit strong, especially if this is the first time you've tried the drink. You can adjust to your tastes.

When to serve a Screwdriver Cocktail

• Screwdrivers are popular for brunch, and like the Bloody Mary, on morning flights!
• They are also great for tailgating and backyard parties.
• Instead of premixing, provide a pitcher of orange juice, glasses, a bucket of ice, a bottle of vodka, and a shot glass for measuring. This way guests can adjust the alcohol to their own preferences. 

Instructions

• Fill a highball glass with ice. 
• Pour vodka over ice. 
• Top with orange juice. 
• Garnish with an orange wedge.

Nutrition

Serving: 1glass | Calories: 207cal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 340mg | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 340IU | Vitamin C: 85.1mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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