The Fuzzy Navel is an alcoholic cocktail that has been around since the 1980s. It is made from mixing equal parts peach schnapps and orange juice. Made from refreshing juice and usually served over ice, it is a common drink for brunches, bridal showers, and other festive daytime gatherings. The name comes from the two ingredients in the drink. The peach portion makes up the “fuzzy” component and the orange completes the “navel” portion of the drink.
Although the true Fuzzy Navel is made from orange juice and peach schnapps, there are countless variations. Regardless of the variation, the drink is best when it is served with fresh squeezed juice and chipped ice. It is commonly garnished with a fresh slice of orange as well.
Some people prefer to have a Fuzzy Navel with a little more alcohol in it. In those cases, there are plenty of options. For example, a shot or two of vodka can be added to the orange juice and the peach schnapps. The result is a Hairy Navel. If coconut rum is added to the orange juice and peach schnapps, the drink is called NASA Truth Serum.
There are versions of the Fuzzy Navel that substitute the orange juice with other juices. For example, instead of orange juice, lemonade can be used. If cranberry juice is used instead of orange juice, the drink is called a WooWoo.
A Fuzzy Navel does not always have to be served over ice. Some people prefer to drink their adult beverage as a frozen or slush. In those cases, the orange juice and peach schnapps can be blended with ice, until it forms a smooth, icy drink.
Occasionally, people may opt for a Jello® shot. Fuzzy Navel gelatin shots are made when peach schnapps is added to orange flavored gelatin and water. Once the gelatin shots reach the proper consistency, they are eaten, much the same way one would eat Jello®. These are especially popular amongst the younger, drinking-aged crowd.
Some people may enjoy the flavor of the Fuzzy Navel, but they may not want to indulge in alcohol. There are non-alcoholic versions of the drink that are very simple to make. Simply add peach syrup to orange juice and then pour the concoction over ice. An orange can still be used as garnish, although many people prefer to garnish it with a maraschino cherry.
As with any alcoholic drink, Fuzzy Navels should be consumed in moderation. If someone is going to drink alcohol, they should not drive a vehicle. Fuzzy Navels and other cocktails may taste great because the strong flavor of the alcohol is hidden. Consequently, it is easy to have the alcohol sneak up on people, especially if they are drinking in a social setting.
