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Home » Catering Blog » Menu Ideas for Every Celebration » A Maryland Classic Drink Recipe – Orange Crush

A Maryland Classic Drink Recipe – Orange Crush

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Welcome the peak of spring with a Maryland staple that’s as bright and vibrant as a sunny April afternoon. The Orange Crush is more than just a drink; it’s a seasonal tradition, bringing a burst of fresh citrus and laid-back energy to any gathering. 

Made with freshly squeezed orange juice, smooth orange vodka, and a hint of triple sec served over plenty of crushed ice, it’s refreshing, crisp, and perfectly balanced. 

This easy-drinking classic pairs beautifully with everything from savory BBQ to light spring bites, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for receptions, backyard parties, and catered celebrations.

Orange Crush Recipe

Orange Crush cocktail/mocktail

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz. orange-flavored vodka
  • 1 oz. triple sec
  • 3 oz. fresh orange juice
  • 4 oz. orange or tangerine flavored sparkling water
  • Crushed ice
  • Garnish: Fresh orange slice

Instructions:

  1. Fill a pint glass or large tumbler with plenty of crushed ice.
  2. In a shaker or separate glass, combine the orange vodka, triple sec, and orange juice.
  3. Pour the mixture over the crushed ice.
  4. Top with the orange or tangerine sparkling water.
  5. Stir gently and garnish with a fresh orange slice.

Orange Crush Mocktail

A refreshing, alcohol-free version that keeps all the bright, citrus-forward flavor of the original.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • ½ cup ginger ale or orange flavored sparkling water
  • 1 tbsp. lime juice
  • 1 tsp. simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • Crushed ice
  • Garnish: Fresh orange slice

Instructions:

  1. Fill a tall glass with crushed ice.
  2. Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and simple syrup (if using).
  3. Top with ginger ale or orange sparkling water.
  4. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
  5. Garnish with a fresh orange slice and enjoy!

Crush the Catering This Spring

From the first backyard graduation party to the colorful blooms of a May wedding, spring in the DC, Maryland and Virginia area is a whirlwind of milestones. Whether you’re honoring a graduate, celebrating Mom for Mother’s Day, or hosting a rainy-day bridal shower that needs a touch of indoor sunshine, the season is all about coming together.

Don’t let the logistics of a growing guest list pull you away from the moment. You handle the memories and the “Class of 2026” playlist, and let Rocklands Catering handle the feast. From end-of-school-year bashes to elegant spring nuptials, we’re here to ensure every guest, from toddlers to grandparents, leaves happy, satisfied, and full.

Ready to make your spring celebration legendary? Contact Rocklands Catering today to discuss your menu and let us handle the delicious details while you enjoy the season!

Start your planning today »

Need more ideas? Check out more of our drink recipes:

Jenn Carter

About Jenn Carter

Meet Jenn Carter, whose love of Rocklands spans more than three decades and made her love official in 2005 when she joined the Rocklands family as a Sales Rep in their Catering Department. There she worked with the team to create events: from intimate backyard gatherings to high-profile political fundraisers. Making sure every client’s event featured both Rocklands’ legendary barbecue and impeccable service. Though life has taken her from DC to Japan, to New Mexico, Tennessee and now to Oklahoma, where she lives with her husband Michael, son Jackson, and pup Francis, you’ll still find bottles of Rocklands Barbecue Sauce making their way to her doorstep. Some loves know no distance.