Fruity, vibrant, and just the right amount of sweet and tangy—this Exotic cocktail is like sipping summer in a glass. With tropical juices, a splash of rum, and a pop of citrus, it’s the kind of drink that instantly puts you in vacation mode. I’ve made this drink countless times for friends on warm evenings, and it never fails to bring a smile. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just winding down after a long day, this one’s a crowd-pleaser.
Exotic
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Hurricane or highball
Equipment: Cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) white rum
– 1 oz (30 ml) passionfruit juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or honey for a natural option)
– Ice (enough to fill your shaker and glass)
– Optional garnish: pineapple slice, maraschino cherry, or edible flower
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the rum, passionfruit juice, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill your hurricane glass with ice.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice or cherry. If you’ve got edible flowers, they make a beautiful finishing touch.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh juice when possible—it really makes the flavors pop.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing sip.
- If you don’t have a shaker, use a mason jar with a tight lid. Just shake and strain.
- For a less sweet version, cut back the simple syrup or use honey instead.
Make-Ahead Notes
Planning for a party? Mix everything except the ice and lime juice in a pitcher ahead of time and chill in the fridge. Add the lime juice and shake with ice just before serving for the freshest taste.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- No rum? Try vodka for a lighter flavor or coconut rum for extra tropical flair.
- Different juices: Mango, guava, or even orange juice work beautifully.
- Lower sugar: Use unsweetened juices and skip the syrup or replace it with a splash of agave or maple syrup.
Fun Variations
Exotic Sunset
– Add a splash of grenadine after pouring the cocktail—it’ll sink and create a stunning layered effect.
Exotic Spice
– Shake in a pinch of cayenne pepper or muddle a thin slice of fresh chili for a subtle, spicy edge.
Exotic Orchard
– Swap in apple and pear juices for a cozy, fall-inspired version.
Virgin Exotic
– Skip the rum and add extra fruit juice or coconut water for a refreshing mocktail version.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines alongside flavorful, vibrant dishes. Here are a few of my go-to pairings:
Grilled Chicken Skewers
The smoky, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy notes in the drink.
Spicy Thai Salad
The heat from the salad balances beautifully with the cool, fruity flavors of the cocktail.
Coconut Shrimp
Crunchy, creamy, and tropical—this combo tastes like a beach vacation.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’ve made a batch, store it in the fridge (without ice) for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick shake or stir before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this without alcohol?
Absolutely! Just replace the rum with more juice or coconut water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version.
What’s the best rum to use?
A light or white rum works best for a clean, bright flavor. Spiced or aged rums will add more depth if that’s what you’re after.
How do I make it look extra fancy?
Garnishes make all the difference. Try a pineapple wedge, a cherry, or even a colorful paper umbrella.
Can I stir instead of shake?
You can, but shaking chills the drink better and helps blend the juices more evenly.
Can I make a large batch?
Definitely. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and mix in a large pitcher. Stir well and serve over ice.
What’s the secret to a great Exotic?
Balance! Taste as you go and adjust the lime juice or syrup to hit that sweet spot between tart and sweet.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends. It’s quick, colorful, and always gets people asking for the recipe. Try it once, and I promise it’ll be a regular in your rotation. Cheers!
