A cool, refreshing drink with a tropical twist—that’s the Malibu Dew! It’s sweet, a little tangy, and packed with coconut and pineapple flavors that instantly bring to mind warm beach days. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and it’s incredibly easy to make at home. Let’s get mixing!
Malibu Dew
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) Malibu rum
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
- 3 oz (90ml) pineapple juice
- 2 oz (60ml) soda water
- 1 cup ice
- Pineapple slice & cherry (for garnish)
Glass: A highball glass works best to show off the drink’s vibrant color, but a Collins glass is a great alternative.
How to Make a Malibu Dew
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour in Malibu rum.
- Add fresh lime juice and pineapple juice.
- Top it off with soda water.
- Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry.
That’s it! A perfectly chilled Malibu Dew, ready to enjoy.
Tips for the Best Malibu Dew
- Use fresh lime juice—it makes a big difference in taste.
- Chill your glass first for an extra refreshing drink.
- Don’t skip the garnish—it adds both a visual pop and a bit of extra flavor.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one trick I swear by is shaking the rum, lime juice, and pineapple juice with ice before pouring it into the glass. It blends the flavors beautifully and gives the drink a smooth, well-balanced taste.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- You can pre-mix the rum, lime juice, and pineapple juice and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add soda water and ice when serving.
- If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them without ice to prevent dilution.
Food Pairings
A Malibu Dew pairs well with light, fresh dishes that enhance its tropical vibe:
- Grilled Shrimp – The smokiness of the shrimp balances the cocktail’s sweetness.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of mango, berries, and kiwi complements the pineapple and coconut flavors.
- Chicken Tacos – The drink’s citrusy notes go perfectly with the zesty, spiced chicken.
Variations & Customizations
Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists:
Malibu Sunrise – Swap the soda water for orange juice and add a splash of grenadine for a layered sunset effect.
Minty Malibu Dew – Muddle a few mint leaves with the lime juice before adding the other ingredients for a fresh, herbal kick.
Berry Malibu Dew – Replace the pineapple juice with mixed berry juice for a fruitier spin.
Non-Alcoholic Version – Skip the rum and use coconut water instead. It’s just as refreshing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Malibu Dew taste like?
It’s sweet, tropical, and slightly tangy, with smooth coconut and bright citrus flavors.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Just swap Malibu rum for coconut water for a delicious Virgin Malibu Dew.
What’s the best glass to use?
A highball glass is ideal, but a Collins glass works too.
Is it high in sugar?
Pineapple juice adds some natural sweetness, but you can use fresh pineapple juice or a lighter juice blend for a lower-sugar option.
What other drinks are similar?
If you like Malibu Dew, you might enjoy Piña Coladas, Mojitos, or a classic Daiquiri.
Light, refreshing, and full of tropical flavor, the Malibu Dew is a simple cocktail that never disappoints. Whether you’re sipping it by the pool or making a batch for friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Cheers! 🍹
