There’s something about the first sip of a Blood Orange Cucumber Crush that just makes your shoulders drop and your worries melt away. It’s like spa water and happy hour had a baby—and yes, it’s as fabulous as it sounds. The sweet-tangy brightness of fresh blood orange juice dances with the crisp coolness of cucumber, and just when you think it’s all innocence and refreshment, vodka winks from the background. Add a kiss of simple syrup, a few muddled herbs (mint, basil—pick your player), and a sparkle of soda water, and you’ve got yourself a drink that feels like sunshine in a glass.

Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, winding down after a long workday, or just need something pretty to sip while pretending you’re on vacation (even if it’s just the patio), this cocktail’s got you. And bonus—it’s almost too pretty to drink. Almost.

This drink pairs wonderfully with our Citrus Berry Cream Cheese Tartlet.

Why You’ll Love This Blood Orange Cucumber Crush

It’s stunning. Seriously, the pink-red hue of blood orange makes every glass Instagram-worthy.

It’s refreshing and light. Cucumber and herbs give this a clean, spa-like vibe.

It’s ridiculously easy to make. No mixology degree needed.

It’s customizable. Swap the vodka, adjust the sweetness, or go zero-proof—it’s all good.

Ingredients

2 blood oranges (juiced + sliced)
1 small cucumber (sliced thin)
2 ounces vodka (or gin, if you’re feeling fancy)
1 ounce simple syrup
Fresh herbs (mint or basil work beautifully)
Ice
Soda water

Instructions

Peel and slice the blood oranges and cucumber. Set aside a few of each for garnish.
In a cocktail shaker, muddle the rest of the blood orange slices, cucumber, and a couple of herb leaves.
Pour in the vodka and simple syrup.
Add ice and shake like you’re in a ’90s music video—30 seconds should do it.
Strain into a glass filled with ice.
Top with soda water, garnish with your prettiest citrus and cucumber slices, and finish with a sprig of herbs.

Melania’s Tips for Perfect Blood Orange Cucumber Crush

Use chilled ingredients. It keeps your drink crisp without over-diluting it with melting ice.
Don’t over-muddle. You want the essence, not a smoothie.
Try basil for a slightly peppery twist. Mint is more traditional, but basil adds depth.
Juicy blood oranges are key. If they’re a bit dry, add a splash more simple syrup or orange juice.

Bake It With the Littles (Mocktail Version!)

If your kiddos want in on the fun (or you’re just skipping booze tonight), this makes a fantastic mocktail:

Skip the vodka.
Add extra blood orange juice and a touch more simple syrup.
Let them help muddle (with supervision!)—kids love smashing things.

Serve in a fancy glass with a silly straw and watch them light up.

Meal-Prep Magic

You can absolutely prep parts of this ahead:

Juice your blood oranges and slice cucumbers the day before.
Make your simple syrup (just sugar and water!) and store it in the fridge.
Herbs can be washed and kept in damp paper towels in the fridge for a day or two.

When happy hour hits, just shake, pour, and sparkle.

Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

Trying to keep things lighter?

Use stevia or honey syrup instead of traditional simple syrup.
Skip the vodka for a totally refreshing spa mocktail.
Use sparkling water with citrus flavor for even more oomph.
Add a splash of kombucha for probiotics and a little zip.

Leftover Remix

If you’ve got extra cucumber or blood orange slices, don’t toss them!

Freeze them into ice cubes for your next drink.
Toss them into a pitcher of water for a fancy hydration moment.
Add leftovers to a fruit salad—especially good with berries and mint.

For another refreshing option, try our Strawberry Cream Cupcake alongside this crush.

Gift It Like a Pro

Hosting or heading to a friend’s brunch? Here’s a chic DIY cocktail kit idea:

A couple of blood oranges
A mini bottle of vodka
A small jar of homemade simple syrup
A cute sprig of mint in a tiny mason jar
Printable recipe card (add a little ribbon!)

Pop it all into a basket or gift bag. Instant hostess gold.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Sort of! Mix everything except the soda water and ice. Store it chilled, then add the bubbles and ice when ready to serve.

What’s the best vodka for this?
Something smooth and clean like Tito’s, Grey Goose, or Ketel One.

What if I can’t find blood oranges?
Regular oranges or even ruby red grapefruit will work. The flavor will be a little different, but still lovely.

Can I batch this for a party?
Oh yes. Just multiply everything by the number of guests and serve in a pitcher. Don’t add soda water until serving.

Final Thought

This Blood Orange Cucumber Crush is more than just a cocktail—it’s a vibe. It’s the drink you make when you want to treat yourself without needing a whole production. It’s fancy without the fuss, refreshing without the sugar overload, and just boozy enough to make your evening sparkle. Whether you’re sipping solo or clinking glasses with friends, this one’s sure to become a go-to. So go ahead—shake, sip, and savor.