There’s something about a Pineapple Daiquiri that just feels like vacation in a glass. It’s sweet, tangy, and super refreshing—basically sunshine you can sip. I’ve made this drink countless times, especially during warm summer evenings with friends, and it never fails to impress.
Pineapple Daiquiri
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Cocktail or martini glass (chilled if possible)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) white rum
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice (fresh or canned, but fresh tastes brighter)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or use honey/agave for a natural twist)
– Ice cubes
– Pineapple slice or lime wheel, for garnish
Method
- Chill your glass: Pop your cocktail or martini glass into the freezer while you mix the drink. A cold glass keeps everything crisp.
- Fill your shaker: Add a handful of ice cubes to a cocktail shaker. This helps cool and dilute the drink just enough.
- Pour in the ingredients: Add the rum, lime juice, pineapple juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake it up: Seal the shaker and shake hard for about 15 seconds. You want the outside of the shaker to feel frosty—that’s your cue it’s ready.
- Strain and serve: Strain the drink into your chilled glass. Garnish with a pineapple slice or lime wheel.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lime juice: It really brightens the drink. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same zing.
– Adjust to taste: Like it less sweet? Cut back on the syrup or bump up the lime a little.
– No shaker? Stir everything together in a mason jar or mix in a glass with a spoon. Just be sure to chill it well.
Storage
This drink’s best made fresh, but if you’re prepping for a party, you can mix everything (except the ice) in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a good stir before serving over ice or shaking.
Make-Ahead Note
Batch it! Multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher. Store chilled, then shake individual servings with ice before pouring. Great for parties or BBQs.
Serving Suggestions
The Pineapple Daiquiri pairs beautifully with:
Spicy Appetizers
Think jalapeño poppers, spicy shrimp, or buffalo wings. The sweetness of the drink balances the heat perfectly.
Grilled Seafood
Grilled fish or shrimp with mango or pineapple salsa really brings out the tropical notes in the cocktail.
Vanilla-Based Desserts
Serve it alongside panna cotta, vanilla ice cream, or even coconut macaroons for a sweet finish.
Variations to Try
Frozen Pineapple Daiquiri
– Replace the ice cubes with 1/2 cup (about 70g) of frozen pineapple chunks.
– Blend everything until smooth.
– Serve in a chilled glass for a slushy-style treat.
Spicy Pineapple Daiquiri
– Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño with the lime juice before adding the rest.
– Adds a little kick that’s great with savory foods.
Coconut Pineapple Daiquiri
– Add 0.5 oz (15 ml) coconut cream to the shaker.
– Rim the glass with shredded coconut for a fun twist.
Virgin Pineapple Daiquiri
– Skip the rum.
– Blend pineapple juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and ice until smooth.
– Still tropical and totally refreshing.
Helpful Substitutions
– No simple syrup? Mix equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved. Let it cool.
– No fresh pineapple juice? Canned or bottled works fine—just make sure it’s 100% juice.
– Out of rum? Try vodka for a different spin, or dark rum for a richer flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Too much ice: Don’t overdo it or the drink gets too diluted.
– Not shaking long enough: You want that shaker icy cold before you pour.
– Using bottled lime juice: It can taste flat or metallic—fresh is always best.
Behind the Drink
The Pineapple Daiquiri is a tropical twist on the classic Cuban daiquiri, which dates back to the early 1900s. It was named after the town of Daiquirí in Cuba and became popular in the U.S. thanks to figures like Hemingway and JFK. Adding pineapple gives it a fruity upgrade that’s now a beach bar favorite around the world.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio—it’s quick to mix, super flavorful, and always puts a smile on everyone’s face.
Q&A
Can I make this without a shaker?
Yep! Stir everything well in a glass or shake it in a tightly sealed jar.
What kind of rum should I use?
White rum is classic, but spiced or dark rum adds a deeper flavor. Try a few and see what you like!
Can I use canned pineapple juice?
Absolutely. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you don’t want your drink too sugary.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut the simple syrup to 1/4 oz (7 ml) or add a bit more lime juice to balance things out.
Can I serve this in a fun way?
Sure! Serve it in a hollowed-out pineapple or add a cocktail umbrella for tropical vibes.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and stir together in a pitcher. Keep chilled and shake with ice before serving each glass.
Pineapple Daiquiris are one of those cocktails that feel like a mini vacation. Whether you’re mixing one for yourself or making a pitcher for friends, it’s a simple, tasty way to bring a little island flavor to your day.
