I’m happy to introduce to you a cocktail I sampled while on vacation this summer: the Grapefruit Crush
Crush Cocktail History:
This Grapefruit Crush cocktail is crazy, all-over-the-place in Baltimore, Maryland and surrounding areas. How did crush cocktails become so popular in Baltimore? It mimics the very popular Orange Crush cocktail recipe that has its origins on the Maryland shores- specifically at the Harborside Bar and Grill in Ocean City, Maryland. It all began with the ORANGE Crush (orange vodka, triple sec, orange juice and Sprite). The Crush trend took off and eventually settled in to Baltimore as the city’s featured cocktail.
Crushes of all flavors have maneuvered their way into the city of Baltimore, and you’ll see them on the menu at every bar. Nowadays, you’ll see variations such as Bourbon Crushes, Lemonade Crushes, Pineapple Crushes and more. The Grapefruit Crush seems to be a popular favorite. What they all have in common is using freshly squeezed juice. These days, a lot of people like to make the skinny version of the crush cocktail– using club soda in place of 7-up or Sprite.
My son attended a lacrosse camp at Goucher college in Towson a few weeks ago, and my husband and I stayed in the inner harbor area of Baltimore. We loved exploring the area (though it was extremely hot and humid!) Our hotel concierge suggested we try the crush cocktails, so we sought them out and gave them a shot. I tried a peach crush and a grapefruit crush. The grapefruit was my favorite!
The bartender at the Four Seasons pool bar schooled me on how to make a Grapefruit Crush. Of course, I had to make them at home and recreate Baltimore’s beloved drink. It’s a great summer cocktail!
Here are a few more grapefruit cocktail recipes you might enjoy:
- Sea Breeze Cocktail
- Frozen Rosé Grapefruit Cocktail
- Ruby Sunset Cocktail
- Citrus Margaritas
- Grapefruit Salty Dog
- Paloma Cocktail
Grapefruit Crush
Ingredients
- ice cubes
- 2 tablespoons grapefruit juice (a shot glass full or more)
- 2 tablespoons grapefruit vodka (a shot glass full or more)
- 2 tablespoons triple sec (a shot glass full or more)
- splash of 7-Up or Sprite (about 1/4 cup)
- grapefruit wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- Place ice cubes in a glass.
- Add grapefruit juice, vodka triple sec. Exact measurement doesn't really matter (you just want to make sure you add an equal amount of each). Add a splash of 7-Up or Sprite. Give it a stir and garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I used grapefruit seltzer, no calories and not so sweet. The ruby red grapefruit freshly squeezed is sweet enough. Buy good Vodka, like the ruby red Deep Eddy it definitely makes a difference in the taste!
Yes! My husband and I were just there last month to visit my brother and sister-in-law who just moved there and these were EVERYWHERE…and I had them everywhere! So many to choose from but I went with the classic grapefruit every time. Thanks for sharing the recipe!
I was just there this past week and always have to visit Harborside for their Orange Crushes!!! I did see these on the menu but wasn’t sure – glad to know they are just as awesome as it’s original counterpart – I will def be making these at home – yummmmmmm!!!