WATCH: Fresh, Fruity and Refreshing: Raise a Glass to the Florida Watermelon Sunrise–Delicious!

Florida Watermelon Sunrise Shines as the Perfect Summer Cocktail

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – When the Florida heat is in full swing, nothing beats a cool, refreshing drink that highlights the Sunshine State’s best produce.

The Florida Watermelon Sunrise is a bright, fruity cocktail that balances juicy watermelon, zesty citrus, and a hint of fizz for the perfect summer sip.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard cookout, or looking for a colorful signature drink to impress your guests, this recipe delivers both flavor and Florida flair.

Ingredients

■ 6 cups Florida watermelon chunks, pureed
(Choose a ripe, seedless Florida watermelon for the sweetest flavor.)

■ 2 Florida oranges, juiced
(Fresh-squeezed makes all the difference—bright and naturally sweet.)

■ ½ cup vodka
(For a local touch, try Florida Fish Hawk Spirits vodka or your favorite premium brand.)

■ ½ cup ginger beer (or to taste)
(Adds a subtle spice and effervescence to balance the sweetness.)

■ 1 cup melted orange sherbet
(Brings creaminess, tang, and a fun “sunrise” effect in the glass.)

■ Optional garnishes: Fresh watermelon slices, orange peel twists, or a sprig of mint.

Preparation

■ Prepare the watermelon base. Place the watermelon chunks in a blender, food processor, or use an immersion blender. Puree until smooth. For a more refined drink, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove pulp.

■ Mix with citrus. In a pitcher, combine the watermelon puree and freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir well to create a vibrant pink-orange blend.

■ Assemble the drinks. Fill each serving glass with ice. Pour in the desired amount of vodka—typically 1 to 1½ ounces per glass. Top with the watermelon-orange mixture, leaving room for fizz.

■ Add the sparkle. Finish each glass with a splash of ginger beer, adjusting the amount depending on how light and bubbly you want the cocktail to be.

■ Create the sunrise effect. Slowly drizzle the melted orange sherbet into each glass. It will swirl with the pink watermelon mixture, mimicking a Florida sunrise.

■ Garnish and serve. Add a small wedge of watermelon on the rim, a twist of orange peel, or a sprig of fresh mint for presentation. Serve immediately with a straw or cocktail stirrer.

Serving Suggestions

■ For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the vodka and increase the ginger beer for a family-friendly summer punch.

■ Make it party-ready by preparing the watermelon-orange mixture ahead of time and chilling it in the refrigerator. Assemble glasses just before serving.

■ Pair this drink with light summer dishes like grilled seafood, fresh salads, or tropical fruit platters for a refreshing complement.

■ The Florida Watermelon Sunrise isn’t just a drink—it’s a celebration of Florida’s seasonal produce and laid-back summer vibes. Bright, juicy, and delightfully sippable, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for your warm-weather gatherings.

Fresh! Florida Watermelon Sunrise from Follow Fresh From Florida on Vimeo.

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