There are some cocktails that instantly transport you to a sunnier place, and the Pineapple Basil Rum Smash is one of them. Imagine sitting on a breezy patio, sipping a drink that’s fruity, aromatic, and perfectly balanced. That’s the vibe this cocktail delivers in every glass.
What makes this cocktail stand out is its combination of tropical pineapple and fresh garden basil. The sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with the subtle peppery notes of basil, while quality white rum keeps things crisp and smooth. It’s a drink that feels sophisticated but doesn’t take itself too seriously — exactly what you want for summer parties, backyard barbecues, or relaxing evenings.
If you’re ready for a cocktail that’s both refreshing and memorable, this one is calling your name. Let’s get into the recipe so you can shake it up at home and impress yourself (and your guests) with every sip.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 4–5 fresh basil leaves
- Ice
- Pineapple wedge or basil sprig for garnish
Ingredients Breakdown
White rum
A quality white rum provides a clean, slightly sweet base that complements fruit without overpowering it. Opt for a mid-shelf brand that’s smooth and mixable.
Fresh lime juice
Fresh lime juice is key to balancing the sweetness of pineapple. Its zesty acidity brightens the cocktail and ties all the flavors together.
Simple syrup
A touch of simple syrup rounds out the edges of the lime and enhances the basil’s subtle flavor. Adjust to taste depending on how sweet you prefer your drinks.
Pineapple juice
Fresh pineapple juice gives the drink its tropical body and a juicy, golden color. If you don’t have fresh pineapple, quality canned juice works well too.
Fresh basil leaves
Basil adds a herbal, slightly peppery note that makes this drink stand out. Lightly muddling the leaves releases natural oils without turning them bitter.
Ice
Ice chills, dilutes slightly, and makes the cocktail bright and refreshing. Use plenty in both the shaker and the serving glass for best results.
Pineapple wedge or basil sprig for garnish
A garnish not only makes your cocktail look professional but also signals the flavors inside the glass. A basil sprig enhances the aroma, while pineapple adds tropical flair.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your glass
Fill a rocks or double old fashioned glass with fresh ice to chill it as you prepare the cocktail. This helps maintain the drink’s crispness.
Step 2: Muddle the basil
In a cocktail shaker, place 4–5 fresh basil leaves and the simple syrup. Gently muddle with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release flavor without tearing the leaves too aggressively.
Step 3: Add liquids
Pour in 2 oz white rum, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 2 oz pineapple juice. Fill the shaker with ice, leaving enough room to shake vigorously.
Step 4: Shake it up
Secure the lid and shake for 10–12 seconds until the shaker feels frosty. This chills the drink, dilutes slightly, and ensures all flavors blend smoothly.
Step 5: Strain and serve
Strain into your prepared ice-filled glass. Garnish with a pineapple wedge or fresh basil sprig, and enjoy immediately while cold and aromatic.
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a rocks glass with ice.
- Muddle basil leaves with simple syrup in a shaker.
- Add rum, lime juice, and pineapple juice. Fill with ice.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into glass and garnish with basil or pineapple.
Notes
- For a lighter drink, top with a splash of soda water before serving.
- Try swapping rum for tequila for a fun tropical twist.
The Pineapple Basil Rum Smash is the ultimate summer refresher. It’s tropical without being overly sweet, and the basil gives it a grown-up twist that makes it stand out from standard fruit cocktails.
Pair it with grilled chicken skewers, shrimp tacos, or light appetizers like caprese skewers. For parties, you can batch the rum, pineapple, lime, and syrup in a pitcher ahead of time — just add basil, ice, and shake individual portions when serving. This is one cocktail that will have friends asking for the recipe before the night is over.