Why You’ll Love This Rising Sun Cocktail Recipe
There’s something undeniably invigorating about the Rising Sun Cocktail that makes it a standout choice for any occasion.
I love how its vibrant color instantly lifts my spirits, and the unique blend of flavors leaves a lasting impression.
Whether I’m hosting friends or unwinding after a long day, it’s my go-to drink.
The balance of sweetness from the blood orange juice and the subtle earthiness of sake creates a revitalizing experience.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so I can whip it up in no time.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to include it in your cocktail repertoire!
Ingredients of Rising Sun Cocktail
When it comes to mixing up a revitalizing drink, the Rising Sun Cocktail is a delightful choice that brings a burst of flavor and color to your glass. With just a couple of ingredients, this cocktail isn’t only simple to make but also packs a punch that can brighten up any gathering.
So, if you’re ready to impress your friends or just treat yourself to a well-deserved drink, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to whip up this vibrant concoction.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Rising Sun Cocktail:
- 3 ounces blood orange juice (that’s about the juice from 2-3 blood oranges)
- 1 1/2 ounces sake
Now, let’s talk about those ingredients for a moment. Blood oranges are a fantastic choice because they add a gorgeous hue and a slightly different flavor profile than regular oranges.
If you can’t find blood oranges, regular orange juice will still do the job, but it won’t have that same striking color or unique taste. And sake? Well, it adds a smooth, earthy depth to the drink that really ties everything together.
Just make sure you grab a good quality sake if you can; trust me, it makes all the difference.
How to Make Rising Sun Cocktail

Making the Rising Sun Cocktail is as easy as pie, and I mean, who doesn’t love pie? First, grab your 3 ounces of blood orange juice, which should come from about 2 to 3 juicy blood oranges. If you’ve never had blood oranges before, you’re in for a treat. They’ve this gorgeous ruby color and a sweet-tart flavor that makes your taste buds do a happy dance.
So, squeeze those beauties, and don’t worry if you get a little juice on your hands—just consider it a badge of honor. Now, pour that lovely juice into a shaker or a glass, depending on how fancy you’re feeling today.
Next up, it’s time to add 1 1/2 ounces of sake. If you’re unfamiliar with sake, think of it as Japan’s gift to the cocktail world. It’s smooth, earthy, and adds a depth that really ties everything together.
So, pour that into your shaker or glass with the blood orange juice. Now, you have a choice: You can shake it up with ice for that frosty, invigorating vibe, or you can simply pour it over ice if you’re craving something a bit more laid-back. I mean, who doesn’t love an effortless cocktail?
If you decide to shake, give it a good shake for about 15 seconds—just enough to get your groove on without breaking a sweat.
Once everything is mixed and chilled to perfection, pour it into your favorite glass. If you’re feeling extra creative, you could even garnish it with a slice of blood orange or a little sprig of mint for that Instagram-worthy touch.
Then, sit back, take a sip, and revel in the fact that you just made a cocktail that looks as good as it tastes. Cheers to that!
Rising Sun Cocktail Substitutions & Variations
If you ever want to mix things up with the Rising Sun Cocktail, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
For a sweeter twist, try using regular orange juice instead of blood orange juice. If you’re not a fan of sake, a light vodka can work just as well.
For a bit of fizz, add a splash of sparkling water or soda. Feeling adventurous? Incorporate a dash of ginger syrup for some spice.
You can even experiment with flavored sake, like yuzu or peach, to create a unique version that suits your taste. Enjoy your cocktail creativity!
What to Serve with Rising Sun Cocktail
To enhance your experience with the Rising Sun Cocktail, consider pairing it with light and fresh appetizers.
I love serving it alongside sushi rolls, especially those filled with cucumber and avocado, as the flavors complement the cocktail beautifully.
Fresh spring rolls with shrimp or veggies also work wonderfully, offering a crunchy contrast.
If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, grilled shrimp skewers drizzled with a citrus glaze are a fantastic choice.
Finally, some tangy cheese, like goat or feta, can add a delightful creaminess that balances the cocktail’s citrus notes perfectly.
Enjoy your pairing!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing the Rising Sun Cocktail with light appetizers enhances its vibrant flavors, but there are a few tips that can elevate your experience even further.
First, use freshly squeezed blood orange juice; it really makes a difference in taste. If you like a bit of fizz, consider adding a splash of sparkling water to your mix.
Chill your sake beforehand for a revitalizing twist. Finally, don’t forget to garnish with a slice of blood orange or a twist of citrus peel—it’s both beautiful and aromatic.
These small details can transform your cocktail into an unforgettable experience! Cheers!