A Kokomo Cocktail is like a tropical vacation in a glass—smooth, refreshing, and packed with bright, fruity flavors. It’s the kind of drink that instantly transports you to a breezy beach, even if you’re just sipping it on your patio. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it’s always a hit at summer gatherings. Let’s walk through how to make it, along with a few fun variations to try.
Kokomo Cocktail
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) white rum – Light and crisp, this lets the tropical flavors shine.
- 2 oz (60ml) pineapple juice – Sweet and tangy, it’s the heart of this drink.
- 1 oz (30ml) coconut cream – Adds a creamy, tropical richness.
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice – A little citrus to balance the sweetness.
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup (optional) – For extra sweetness if you like.
- Ice cubes – To blend everything into a smooth, frosty drink.
- Garnish: A slice of pineapple & a maraschino cherry – The perfect finishing touch.
Glass recommendation: A highball glass works best, but a hurricane glass is a great alternative. Both let the beautiful tropical color shine.
How to Make a Kokomo Cocktail
- Fill a blender with ice, then add the white rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, lime juice, and simple syrup (if using).
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a chilled highball glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and maraschino cherry.
That’s it! A perfectly blended, creamy, and refreshing tropical drink.
Tips for the Best Kokomo Cocktail
- Use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice won’t have the same bright, zesty kick.
- Chill your glass ahead of time. It keeps the drink cold longer.
- Adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, skip the simple syrup or use unsweetened coconut cream.
- No blender? No problem! Shake the ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker and strain over fresh ice for an on-the-rocks version.
Variations to Try
Strawberry Kokomo
- Add fresh strawberries before blending for a fruity, berry twist.
Spicy Kokomo
- Muddle a slice of jalapeño with the lime juice before blending for a subtle heat.
Virgin Kokomo
- Swap the rum for coconut water and add a splash of grenadine for a non-alcoholic version that’s just as refreshing.
Perfect Food Pairings
A Kokomo Cocktail pairs beautifully with tropical and grilled dishes. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Tropical salads – Mango, pineapple, or papaya salads bring out the cocktail’s fruity notes.
- Grilled seafood – Shrimp or fish with a smoky char balances the drink’s sweetness.
- BBQ chicken – The sweet and smoky flavors of barbecue sauce work surprisingly well with the creamy coconut and pineapple in the drink.
Common Questions
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the liquids and store them in the fridge. Just blend with ice right before serving.
What’s the best rum to use?
A light white rum keeps it fresh and crisp, but dark rum works if you want a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut milk instead of coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free version.
How can I make it less sweet?
Skip the simple syrup and use unsweetened coconut cream.
Whether you’re making this for a summer party or just treating yourself after a long day, the Kokomo Cocktail is always a great choice. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your own variations!
