A creamy, tropical cocktail with a hint of coffee and a splash of rum—this Jamaican Dirty Banana is the perfect drink for warm days or whenever you need a little island escape. Blended to silky perfection, it’s sweet, refreshing, and just the right amount of indulgent. I’ve made this countless times, and trust me—once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite at Caribbean resorts!
Jamaican Dirty Banana
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1 ripe banana (the riper, the sweeter)
- 1.5 oz (45ml) white rum
- 1 oz (30ml) coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
- 2 oz (60ml) milk or cream (for richness)
- 1 cup ice
- Chocolate syrup (for garnish)
Glass choice: A hurricane glass works best, but a highball glass will do if that’s what you have.
How to Make a Jamaican Dirty Banana
- In a blender, combine the banana, rum, coffee liqueur, and milk or cream.
- Add the ice and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass for a decorative touch.
- Pour in the blended mixture and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tip: Want to take it up a notch? Sprinkle a little nutmeg or cinnamon on top for extra warmth.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to a day.
- If making ahead, blend everything except the ice. Store in the fridge, then blend with ice just before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists:
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap the milk/cream for coconut milk or almond milk.
- Stronger Kick: Use dark rum for deeper flavor.
- Less Sweet: Cut back on the coffee liqueur or use unsweetened almond milk.
- Chocolate Dirty Banana: Add chocolate liqueur for a richer, dessert-like treat.
- Virgin Dirty Banana: Skip the alcohol and use cold brew coffee and a splash of vanilla extract instead.
Food Pairings
This drink pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled seafood – The smoky flavors balance the creamy sweetness.
- Caribbean jerk chicken – The spice contrasts nicely with the smooth banana and coffee notes.
- Fresh fruit salad – A light, refreshing side that enhances the tropical flavors.
Tips for the Best Dirty Banana
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and smooth blending.
- Chill your glass before serving to keep the drink colder longer.
- Blend until silky smooth—you don’t want chunks of ice!
FAQs
What’s the best type of banana to use?
A ripe banana—the more speckled, the better! It adds natural sweetness and blends easily.
Can I use dark rum instead of white?
Absolutely! Dark rum gives a richer, more caramel-like flavor.
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes! Coconut milk or almond milk works great as a substitute.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the coffee liqueur or use unsweetened almond milk instead of cream.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and I hope it becomes one of your favorites too. Whether you’re sipping it by the pool or dreaming of a beach getaway, the Jamaican Dirty Banana is pure tropical bliss in a glass. Cheers! 🍌🍹
