There’s something about a Malibu Hurricane that just screams vacation-in-a-glass. It’s fruity, colorful, and just the right mix of sweet and tangy—like sipping sunshine with a breeze. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends, and I’ve made it more times than I can count. It’s simple to make, easy to tweak to your taste, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Malibu Hurricane
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Hurricane glass (or a highball if that’s what you have)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) Malibu Rum (or any coconut rum)
– 2 oz (60 ml) orange juice (fresh-squeezed if you can)
– 2 oz (60 ml) pineapple juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) grenadine
– Ice cubes
– Orange slice and maraschino cherry, for garnish
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with a handful of ice.
- Pour in the Malibu rum, orange juice, and pineapple juice.
- Shake it up for about 10–15 seconds until it’s nice and chilled.
- Fill your hurricane glass with fresh ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- Slowly pour the grenadine over the top—it’ll sink and create a gorgeous layered look.
- Garnish with a slice of orange and a cherry right on top.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh juice if you can—it really brings out the bright tropical flavors.
– Want it less sweet? Use just ½ oz (15 ml) of grenadine or swap it with a splash of cranberry juice.
– For a show-stopping look, pour the grenadine gently over the back of a spoon to help it layer nicely.
– If you’re feeling fancy, add a tiny umbrella or a sprig of mint.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the orange and pineapple juices with the grenadine ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Just add the rum and ice when you’re ready to serve so the flavor stays fresh and the drink doesn’t get watered down.
Storage
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’re prepping for a party, you can mix a large batch (without ice or grenadine) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a good stir before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
Sometimes I like to switch things up a bit. Here are a few fun twists:
- Rum swap: Try dark rum for a richer flavor or spiced rum for a bit of warmth.
- Juice options: Mango juice adds a delicious tropical twist. Cranberry gives a tart edge.
- Color change: Replace grenadine with blue curaçao for a fun, ocean-blue version.
Try These Variations
Tropical Storm
– Use spiced rum instead of Malibu
– Add a splash of lime juice for a zesty kick
Sunset Breeze
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) cranberry juice
– Layer it on top for a beautiful red sunset effect
Island Calm
– Blend all the ingredients with ½ oz (15 ml) coconut cream and a handful of ice
– Serve it smoothie-style in a chilled glass
Virgin Malibu Hurricane (Non-Alcoholic)
– Replace the rum with coconut water or a non-alcoholic rum alternative
– Keep everything else the same—it’s just as fun and refreshing!
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail plays well with:
Grilled Seafood
The smoky, charred edges of shrimp or fish are a perfect match for the drink’s sweet and citrusy notes.
Spicy Bites
Buffalo wings, spicy shrimp tacos, or jalapeño poppers—this cocktail cools the heat with every sip.
Fresh Fruit Platter
Pineapple, mango, watermelon—let the fruit echo the flavors in your glass.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-cocktail tricks: use leftover pineapple or orange slices from the garnish tray to snack on between drinks. It keeps the tropical vibe going and balances the sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make a Malibu Hurricane ahead of time?
Yes! Just mix the juices and grenadine and chill. Add the rum and ice right before serving.
How can I reduce the sugar?
Use fresh juice and cut the grenadine in half—or skip it altogether and add a splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice instead.
What’s the best way to garnish?
A slice of orange and a cherry are classic, but a mint sprig, pineapple wedge, or even edible flowers add a fun twist.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Absolutely! Frozen pineapple or mango chunks can double as ice and add flavor as they melt.
What’s the best glass to use?
A hurricane glass shows off the drink’s layers and colors beautifully, but a highball works in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
A Malibu Hurricane is more than just a pretty drink—it’s tropical, refreshing, and easy to love. Whether you’re mixing one up for a backyard BBQ or just treating yourself after a long day, it’s sure to lift your spirits. Try one of the variations next time, and don’t be afraid to make it your own. Cheers!
