Enjoying a March Madness Slam Dunk cocktail with tequila, orange sherbet, and ginger ale is a great way to enjoy the basketball season’s excitement. This fun drink blends citrus and ginger flavors, making it both refreshing and bubbly. It’s perfect for cheering on your favorite team at home or for hosting a party with friends during the tournament. Just adjust the serving size accordingly!
Slam Dunk Cocktail
Equipment
- A large punch bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups tequila
- 1 cup orange liqueur
- 1/2 gallon orange sherbert
- 6 oz frozen orange juice concentrate
- 2 liters ginger ale
- orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- Place the sherbert and frozen orange juice concentrate in a large punch bowl. Allow them to thaw for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Stir in the ginger ale, tequila, and orange liqueur. Garnish with orange slices and ladel into glasses. Enjoy!
🏀 Slam Dunk Drink FAQ
When the court heats up and your crew gathers for tip-off, there’s no better way to celebrate every buzzer-beater than with a cocktail that’s just as bold — the Slam Dunk drink. Whether you’re mixing for March Madness or a casual backyard watch party, here’s everything you need to know about this fan-favorite game-day drink.
What is a Slam Dunk drink?
The Slam Dunk drink is a fruity, high-energy cocktail that combines orange juice, vodka (or another clear spirit like tequila in our case), and a splash of grenadine for that signature “court-side” color. It’s bright, refreshing, and easy to batch in a pitcher for tailgates or watch parties. For an extra twist, try adding a splash of lemon-lime soda or orange liqueur to keep the flavors lively when the game goes into overtime.
What’s the unhealthiest alcoholic drink?
While the Slam Dunk might be a winner on flavor, some cocktails — especially creamy or sugary ones — can rack up calories fast. Drinks like frozen daiquiris, piña coladas, and sweet margaritas tend to be the heaviest. If you’re looking to lighten things up at your tailgate, use fresh juice instead of mixers, or make “skinny” versions of your favorite cocktails with soda water or low-sugar alternatives. To adjust this recipe, choose OJ with no added sugars and consider leaving out the sherbert.
What is a shot called Slam Dunk?
The Slam Dunk shot is a fun, layered drink made with amaretto and orange juice, often topped with a splash of vodka or whiskey. It’s served as a quick game-day toast — a fast, fiery way to cheer on your team. If you’re hosting a tailgate, pre-mix a batch in mini shot bottles or serve them ice-cold from a cooler for an easy crowd-pleaser.
What is a Mexican Slam drink?
A Mexican Slam (sometimes called a Mexican Slammer) adds a spicy kick to the classic slam shot. It usually includes tequila and a splash of hot sauce or Tabasco — shaken hard and served fast. It’s bold, brash, and perfect for fans who like a little heat with their halftime. Pair it with chips, salsa, and guacamole for a winning tailgate combo.
Whether you’re shaking up a Slam Dunk cocktail or serving Slam shots to celebrate a win, these drinks bring fun and flavor to any game-day tailgate. Mix, sip, and cheer responsibly — because a good tailgate always ends with a victory toast.
Want more tequila recipes? Check out Our Master Guide To Tequila Tailgating Cocktails.
