A true taste of the tropics, Planter’s Punch is like summer in a glass—bright, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet. This rum-based cocktail has been my go-to drink for warm evenings on the porch, and I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails with you. It’s easy to make, super refreshing, and always a hit at gatherings.
Planter's Punch
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 2 oz (60 ml) Jamaican rum (dark or aged works beautifully)
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
– 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup (see tip below)
– 2 oz (60 ml) fresh pineapple juice
– 2 oz (60 ml) fresh orange juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) grenadine
– 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
– Ice cubes, enough to fill your glass
– Pinch of ground nutmeg (for garnish)
– Optional garnish: orange slice, cherry, mint sprig
What You’ll Need
– Highball glass or a fun Tiki mug
– Cocktail spoon (or a regular spoon works too)
– Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)
Make-Ahead Tip
You can prep the juices and mix the base (everything but the ice and bitters) a few hours ahead. Keep it chilled in the fridge, then just pour over ice, add bitters, and garnish when ready to serve.
How to Make It
- Fill your glass with ice. You want it nice and cold from the start.
- Pour in the Jamaican rum. This gives the drink its warm, rich base. Aged or dark rum brings out deeper flavors, but white rum works if that’s what you’ve got.
- Add the lime juice and simple syrup. Fresh lime juice gives it that bright citrus kick. If you don’t have simple syrup, just stir together equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved.
- Pour in the pineapple and orange juices. Use fresh-squeezed if you can—it really makes the drink pop with flavor.
- Drizzle in the grenadine. This adds a lovely splash of color and a touch of sweetness. Pour it slowly for that pretty layered effect—it’ll settle near the bottom like a tropical sunset.
- Shake or stir gently. You can give it a quick shake in a cocktail shaker or stir right in the glass to blend everything nicely.
- Top with 2–3 dashes of Angostura bitters. They balance the sweetness and add a whisper of spice.
- Garnish with a pinch of nutmeg and a slice of orange or cherry. That nutmeg on top smells amazing and gives a warm, cozy finish.
Tips & Tricks
– Juice matters: Always go for freshly squeezed citrus and pineapple juice if you can. It makes a huge difference.
– Sweetness level: Not a fan of sugary drinks? Cut back on the grenadine or syrup. Or swap in honey or agave syrup for a more natural sweetness.
– Rum swaps: No Jamaican rum? Try a blend of dark and white rum, or even spiced rum for a bolder twist.
– Layering tip: Add grenadine last and don’t stir too vigorously if you want that layered “sunset” look.
Storage
If you’re making a batch ahead for a party, mix all ingredients except ice and bitters, and chill in the fridge for up to 1 day. Add ice and bitters just before serving to keep things fresh and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Planter’s Punch pairs perfectly with bold, flavorful dishes. Here are a few ideas:
Jerk Chicken
The smoky spice of jerk seasoning meets its match in this fruity, cooling drink. It’s a Caribbean classic pairing.
Grilled Shrimp or Fish
The lightness of seafood and the tropical notes of the punch are a match made in vacation heaven.
Fresh Fruit Platter
Think mango, pineapple, and watermelon. These fruits echo the drink’s flavors and keep things light and refreshing.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: don’t skip the bitters. Even just a couple dashes take it from good to *wow, what is that flavor?* Trust me.
Variations to Try
Jamaican Me Crazy
– Use a mix of light and dark rum
– Top with a splash of club soda for fizz
– Keeps the punch light and bubbly
Tropical Sunset
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) coconut rum
– Finish with a splash of cranberry juice
– Makes a gorgeous, rosy drink with a coconut twist
Spiced Island Punch
– Use spiced rum
– Add a splash of ginger beer for a little heat and sparkle
Virgin Planter’s Punch (Non-Alcoholic)
– Skip the rum
– Use extra fruit juice (especially pineapple and orange)
– Add a splash of ginger ale or coconut water for fun
FAQs
Can I make this for a crowd?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Add ice and bitters just before serving.
What’s the best rum to use?
Jamaican rum is traditional—look for a dark or aged version for more depth. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
Can I make it healthier?
Absolutely. Use fresh juices, cut back on syrup, and go for natural sweeteners like honey or agave. You can even add a splash of soda water to lighten it up.
How should I garnish it?
Get creative! Orange slices, maraschino cherries, mint sprigs, or even a little umbrella make it festive and fun.
What if I don’t have grenadine?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts pomegranate juice and sugar. Or skip it altogether and add a splash of cranberry juice for color.
This cocktail is more than just a drink—it’s a little escape. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or just winding down after a long day, Planter’s Punch brings a taste of the islands right to your glass.
