If you’re not usually a beer fan, this Orange Shandy cocktail might change your mind. A bright combination of Satsuma orange liqueur, fresh orange juice, and a wheat beer like Blue Moon creates a refreshing orange shandy that works for brunch or as an easy after-dinner cocktail.
Beer and Orange Juice
This drink gives beer a new, fruity identity. If you’ve always shied away from beer, an orange shandy is a gentle, flavorful introduction that softens the beer’s bitterness with citrus and a touch of rum liqueur.
I call this version the Satsuma Shandy, because the Satsuma orange liqueur brings a sweet, slightly syrupy orange character that pairs beautifully with citrus juice and a citrus-forward wheat beer.
Mixology has quickly become one of my favorite hobbies. Trying simple, balanced drinks like this shandy is a fun way to explore flavors and build easy recipes you’ll reach for again and again.
What is a Shandy drink?
A shandy is simply beer mixed with a non-alcoholic mixer such as soda or juice. The mixer lightens the beer and adds a complementary flavor—classic choices include lemonade, ginger beer, or fruit juice.
Some shandies include a splash of spirits for extra depth. Think of a “beergarita” as a playful example: beer blended with margarita ingredients. The shandy concept is versatile and easy to customize.
That’s the appeal: a shandy is straightforward, refreshing, and adaptable to different tastes.
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Ingredients Needed
- 12 ounces orange juice (freshly squeezed recommended)
- 1.5 ounces Satsuma orange liqueur (or another orange rum liqueur)
- 12 ounces Blue Moon beer (or another wheat beer)
- Orange wedges or slices for garnish
How to Make an Orange Shandy
First: Combine the orange juice and Satsuma orange liqueur in a large glass or shaker. Mix gently to combine.
Second: Divide the mixture between two glasses filled with a few ice cubes.
Third: Open the beer and pour it slowly into each glass to preserve carbonation. Give each drink a quick, gentle stir to incorporate.
Finish: Garnish with an orange wedge or slice and serve immediately.
For a concise recipe card, see the recipe section below.
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What is the best beer for a shandy?
A light, citrus-forward wheat beer works especially well in an orange shandy. Blue Moon is a classic choice because it’s often served with an orange garnish and its mild, slightly sweet profile complements orange flavors.
If you prefer something hoppier or drier, try a pale ale or a lighter lager—just be mindful that stronger hop bitterness can compete with the citrus. For the smoothest balance, stick with wheat beers or lighter ales.
The Satsuma orange liqueur adds a richer orange note than straight rum, so it’s a nice pairing with the beer and juice and gives the drink a more layered flavor.
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Easy Party Foods
- Orange Jubilee
- Grapefruit Shandy
- 3-Ingredient Cocktails
- Rum Balls
- Creamy Beer Cheese Dip
Satsuma Orange Shandy Cocktail
Ingredients
- 12 ounces orange juice
- 1.5 ounces Satsuma Orange Liqueur
- 12 ounces Blue Moon beer
- Orange wedges or slices for garnish
Instructions
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Mix the orange juice and Satsuma orange liqueur in a large glass or shaker.
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Divide the mixture between two glasses filled with ice.
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Pour the beer slowly into each glass.
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Stir gently to combine.
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Garnish with an orange wedge or slice and serve.
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Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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This recipe was inspired by a Plain Chicken shandy idea.