Screwdriver Cocktail

close up shot of glasses of Screwdriver Drink garnished with slices of oranges and served with a straw

A simple and quick cocktail consisting of fresh orange juice, ice, and vodka, a screwdriver cocktail is a classic cocktail almost everyone will love!

Jump to Recipe

Prep Time10

Total Time10

Servings

This two-ingredient screwdriver drink recipe is perfect for a casual after-dinner cocktail. Not only is it smooth, but the OJ adds a delicious citrus twist that enhances the vodka’s taste in the best way.

What Is A Screwdriver Drink?

A screwdriver drink is a classic cocktail that consists of orange juice and vodka. It’s one of the most popular cocktails due to its simple ingredients and refreshing taste.

Why Is Vodka And OJ Called A Screwdriver?

The name comes from the fact that it was traditionally served in a screw-top glass bottle—hence the name “screwdriver”.

What’s in a Screwdriver?

Screwdriver Drink raw ingredients that are labeled

You’ll need:

4 to 6 ounces of orange juice
1½ ounces of vodka (1 shot)
1 cup of ice cubes

Screwdriver Recipe Substitutions and Additions

SALT: To assist in cutting the sharpness of the alcohol a little bit, you can add a pinch of salt to this vodka cocktail.

ORANGE JUICE: While it won’t be a screwdriver cocktail any longer, you can mix almost any fruit juice with vodka in equal proportions and it’s going to taste pretty darn good!

What Is The Best Vodka For Screwdriver Cocktails?

The best vodka for a screwdriver cocktail is the one you enjoy drinking. There are many brands of vodka on the market, so it’s important to experiment with different ones to find the perfect one for your tastes.

How To Make A Screwdriver Cocktail

PRO TIP:

Screwdrivers are traditionally served over ice and often as a breakfast/brunch cocktail. You could shake with ice, chill the glass, and serve strained so there is no melted ice to water the drink down.

STEP ONE: Fill the glass with the desired amount of ice.

PRO TIP:

The quantity of orange juice will vary according to how much ice and the size of the glass used. For glasses larger than 8 ounces, you can add two shots of vodka.

Screwdriver Drink process shot of glasses filled with ice

STEP TWO: Add one shot of vodka.

PRO TIP:

For the best flavor in this simple screwdriver, quality does matter. We recommend high-quality vodka such as Grey Goose, Smirnoff, or Tito’s.

Screwdriver Drink process shot of one shot of vodka poured into the glass

STEP THREE: Fill the glass with orange juice.

Screwdriver Drink process shot of orange juice poured into the glass

STEP FOUR: Add an orange wedge or maraschino cherry for garnish. Serve immediately.

PRO TIP:

Serve this simple cocktail with a straw or drink mixer so the alcohol can be redistributed as it’s being consumed.

Screwdriver Drink Ratio

The traditional ratio for a screwdriver cocktail is one part vodka to four parts orange juice. Feel free to adjust the ratio according to your tastes.

Ways To Serve A Screwdriver Cocktail

Screwdriver vodka cocktails are a popular choice for party drinks. Add these to your bartending menu along with our wine floats and pink Starburst cocktail.

Don’t forget stuffed mushrooms and cucumber bites for appetizers to serve your guests.

MORE ALCOHOLIC DRINK RECIPES

Drinks

Shirley Temple Drink

Drinks

Alcoholic Frozen Lemonade

Another one of our favorite cocktails is strawberry champagne floats. Our jello shots are such fun for a party treat.

How To Store A Screwdriver Cocktail

IN THE FRIDGE: You can premake screwdriver cocktails or store them in the fridge for three to four weeks.

However, a fresh screwdriver cocktail is always going to taste the best.

close up overhead shot of glasses of Screwdriver Drink garnished with slices of oranges

Screwdriver Recipe

With a mix this delicious, you’ll find yourself craving a classic screwdriver cocktail at brunch, lunch, dinner… well let’s be honest – a screwdriver cocktail is a good idea at almost any time of the day. This drink is one of the simplest cocktails around and delicious to drink – just mix your favorite vodka with ice and orange juice!

Screwdriver Drink FAQs

What type of glass is best for a Screwdriver?

You can use any glass you prefer for this popular drink but we tend to like to use a tall glass such as a highball glass or Collins glass for this easy cocktail.

Can I make a Screwdriver Cocktail ahead of time?

This simple drink can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for three to four weeks.

Can I use a different juice in this Screwdriver Recipe?

While it wouldn’t be a classic screwdriver, you could use a different juice such as pineapple for a tropical spin.

Screwdriver vs Mimosa – what’s the difference?

The main difference between a mimosa and a screwdriver is the type of alcohol used. A mimosa is made with sparkling white wine or champagne, while a screwdriver cocktail uses vodka.

Is a screwdriver a breakfast drink?

While not the most popular breakfast drink (that’s a mimosa!), a screwdriver can be enjoyed as a breakfast or brunch drink!