Xanthan Gum Free Paleo Tequila Sunrise
This cocktail is a showstopper in a glass — layers of golden orange juice and a deep crimson pomegranate-honey syrup that sink and swirl into that iconic sunrise gradient right before your eyes. The syrup is made from scratch with just two ingredients: pure pomegranate juice and honey, simmered together until they meld into something rich and slightly thickened. No artificial colorings, no flavored syrups with mystery additives, and absolutely nothing that would raise a flag for anyone avoiding thickening agents. Fresh-squeezed orange juice and a solid blanco tequila do the heavy lifting on flavor, so every sip tastes bright, citrusy, and just a little floral. The slow-pour technique over the back of a bar spoon is the key to that gorgeous layered effect — patience here pays off visually and makes the whole thing feel like something you'd order at a nice restaurant. It's the kind of drink that looks complicated but comes together in minutes, making it perfect for a weekend brunch or a warm evening on the patio.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
For the pomegranate-honey syrup
- ¼ cup pomegranate juice, 100% pure
- 1 tbsp honey
For the cocktail
- 3 oz blanco tequila (100% agave)
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (from about 3 medium oranges)
- ice cubes, as needed
For serving
- 2 orange slices, for garnish (optional)
- 2 maraschino cherries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the pomegranate juice and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the honey fully dissolves, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool for at least 10 minutes until it reaches room temperature — it will thicken slightly as it cools.
- 2
Fill two highball glasses with ice cubes. Pour 1.5 oz of tequila into each glass, then divide the fresh orange juice evenly between the two glasses and stir briefly to combine.
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