There’s something about this Malibu Pineapple Margarita that just says vacation in a glass. It’s bright, tropical, and easy to sip-perfect for warm days, beach vibes, or whenever you need a little getaway without leaving your kitchen. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re mixing for one or making a whole pitcher for friends, this cocktail delivers a refreshing punch of coconut, pineapple, and citrus.
Malibu Pineapple Margarita
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink (easily scaled up)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) Malibu coconut rum
– 2 oz (60 ml) pineapple juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
– 1 oz (30 ml) triple sec or Cointreau
– 1 cup (240 ml) ice, plus more for serving
– Salt or sugar, for rimming the glass (optional)
– Pineapple slice or lime wheel, for garnish
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with lid)
– Jigger or measuring cup
– Glass: Margarita or highball glass
Method
- Prep your glass: Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into salt (or sugar if you like it sweeter). Set aside.
- Shake the cocktail: In a shaker, combine Malibu rum, pineapple juice, lime juice, and triple sec. Add a generous handful of ice. Shake for about 15 seconds until it feels cold to the touch.
- Serve: Fill your prepared glass with fresh ice. Strain the shaken mixture over the ice.
- Garnish: Add a pineapple slice or a lime wheel on the rim. Sip and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
– Fresh lime juice makes all the difference-skip the bottled stuff if you can.
– If your drink feels too sweet, try adding a splash of soda water or a little extra lime juice.
– Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing sip.
– No shaker? A mason jar with a tight lid works just fine.
Make-Ahead Notes
Mix everything except the ice and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, shake with ice and pour. Great for prepping before guests arrive!
Storage
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the mixed (non-iced) ingredients in the fridge for a day. Just give it a quick shake before serving.
Substitutions & Variations
– Rum: Don’t have Malibu? Use white rum and add a splash of coconut water or coconut syrup.
– Triple sec: Swap with Cointreau or Grand Marnier for a richer orange flavor.
– Pineapple juice: Mango juice also works beautifully for a twist.
Fun Twists
Frozen Malibu Pineapple Margarita
Toss all the ingredients into a blender with a handful of ice and a few chunks of frozen pineapple. Blend until smooth and slushy.
Spicy Kick
Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy edge. Strain well to avoid too much heat.
Malibu Mango Margarita
Swap the pineapple juice for mango juice. It’s creamy, fruity, and just as tropical.
Mocktail Version
Skip the alcohol and use pineapple juice, a splash of coconut water, and a squeeze of lime. Refreshing and kid-friendly!
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with summery dishes. Here are a few of my favorites:
– Grilled shrimp skewers: The smoky char balances the drink’s sweetness.
– Fresh salsa and chips: The lime in the drink plays so well with bright tomato and cilantro.
– Fish or chicken tacos: The tropical notes complement bold taco seasonings perfectly.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s easy, festive, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a pitcher for a party?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings, mix everything in a pitcher (except ice), and keep it chilled. Pour over ice when serving.
Do I have to rim the glass?
Not at all. It’s optional, but it adds a fun touch. Try sugar if you prefer it over salt.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You can, but fresh lime juice really boosts the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled will work-just adjust to taste.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less pineapple juice or add more lime juice. You can also splash in some soda water to lighten it up.
Can I mix in other fruits?
Yes! Try muddling in berries, kiwi, or mango for a fruity twist. Just strain before serving for a smooth sip.
Whether you’re relaxing solo or mixing up a batch for friends, this Malibu Pineapple Margarita is pure sunshine in a glass. Cheers to easy, breezy cocktails that taste like a vacation!
