A Painkiller is more than just a tropical cocktail—it’s a vacation in a glass. With its creamy coconut, sweet pineapple, and a touch of citrus, it’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like your toes are in the sand, no matter where you are. I’ve made this drink countless times, and every sip still takes me right back to beach days and warm breezes.
Cheddar's Painkiller
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Poco Grande or Tiki mug
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) dark rum (traditionally Pusser’s, but any rich, full-bodied rum works)
– 4 oz (120 ml) pineapple juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) orange juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) cream of coconut (like Coco López or Real)
– Ice (for shaking and serving)
– A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
– Optional: pineapple wedge or orange slice for garnish
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut.
- Shake well for about 10–15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill a Poco Grande glass or Tiki mug with fresh ice.
- Strain the drink into your glass.
- Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top—it adds a warm aroma that rounds out the tropical flavors.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge or orange slice, and pop in a straw.
Make-Ahead Tips
– You can mix the juices and cream of coconut ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– Hold off on adding the rum and ice until just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Storage
If you’ve got leftover mix (without the rum), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a good shake before using, as the coconut may separate slightly.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh juices when you can—especially the orange juice. It makes a noticeable difference in brightness.
– Don’t skip the nutmeg. That tiny pinch adds a cozy, spicy finish that ties everything together.
– Shaking is key. It helps blend the cream of coconut smoothly into the drink, so you don’t get any clumps.
– If your cream of coconut is too thick from the fridge, let it sit at room temp for a few minutes and give it a good stir before using.
Substitutions
– No cream of coconut? Try canned coconut cream (not milk) and add a touch of simple syrup or honey for sweetness.
– Light on rum? You can use coconut rum for a milder, extra-tropical twist.
– Want a lighter version? Use less cream of coconut and more juice, or try coconut water instead.
Flavor & Texture Notes
This drink is all about balance. The pineapple brings bright sweetness, the orange adds citrusy zip, and the cream of coconut gives it that silky, rich texture. The rum ties it all together with a deep, warm base. When you sprinkle nutmeg on top, you’ll get a little whiff of spice every time you take a sip.
Serving Suggestions
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s especially great for:
– Backyard BBQs
– Poolside lounging
– Brunch (yes, really!)
– Happy hour with friends
Pair it with:
– Grilled jerk chicken or BBQ skewers
– Spicy appetizers (the sweetness helps cool the heat)
– A fresh tropical fruit salad (like mango, papaya, and kiwi)
Variations
Chocolate Painkiller
– Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring the drink.
– It’s a rich, dessert-like version that’s surprisingly tasty.
Spicy Painkiller
– Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
– Adds a subtle kick that plays nicely with the sweetness.
Vanilla Painkiller
– Use vanilla-infused rum or add a drop of pure vanilla extract.
– Garnish with a vanilla bean for a lovely aromatic twist.
Frozen Painkiller
– Blend all the ingredients with a cup of ice for a slushy, vacation-style treat.
Virgin Painkiller
– Skip the rum and add a splash more pineapple juice or coconut water.
– Still creamy, fruity, and totally refreshing.
FAQs
Can I use light coconut milk instead of cream of coconut?
You can, but your drink won’t be as rich or sweet. Add a bit of sweetener if needed.
Is this drink strong?
It’s smoother than you’d expect. The juices mellow the rum, but it’s still got a good kick. Sip slowly!
What’s the best rum to use?
Pusser’s Navy Rum is traditional, but any dark or aged rum with depth will work. I’ve also enjoyed it with spiced rum for a little extra warmth.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by how many servings you want. Mix everything (except ice) in a large pitcher, refrigerate, and stir well before pouring over ice.
Are there non-dairy options?
Yes—most cream of coconut products are already dairy-free, but double-check the label. You can also use coconut-based cream alternatives if needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a Painkiller. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it up at a summer bash or just unwinding after a long day, it’s the kind of drink that brings a little sunshine to your glass.
Cheers to tropical vibes—no passport required.
