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Kenny's Cooler Recipe

A refreshing, citrus-forward cooler that balances sweet orange juice, tangy lemon, and slightly bitter grapefruit, finished with fizzy club soda for a light and effervescent drink perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups fresh orange juice
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 cup simple syrup
  • 1/2 cup vodka or light rum optional
  • 4 cups club soda or sparkling water
  • 2 cups ice cubes
  • Fresh citrus slices for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Large pitcher or cooler
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Stirring spoon or bar spoon
  • Drinking glasses
  • Citrus juicer or hand squeezer
  • Ice bucket or freezer for ice

Method
 

  1. Squeeze fresh oranges, lemons, and grapefruits into a large pitcher.
  2. Pour the orange juice, lemon juice, and grapefruit juice into the pitcher and stir to combine.
  3. Add the simple syrup to the citrus mixture and stir thoroughly until dissolved.
  4. If using alcohol, pour in the vodka or light rum and stir gently.
  5. Chill the juice mixture in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes if time allows.
  6. Just before serving, add the club soda or sparkling water and stir gently to preserve carbonation.
  7. Fill each glass with ice cubes and pour the cooler mixture over the ice.
  8. Garnish each glass with fresh citrus slices and mint leaves, then serve immediately.

Notes

Make the citrus juice base up to one day ahead and refrigerate; add club soda and ice just before serving to keep the drink fizzy and fresh.