The Relaxer is one of those cocktails that instantly puts you in vacation mode. Creamy, fruity, and just boozy enough to help you unwind, it’s like a tropical breeze in a glass. Whether you’re sipping it poolside, hosting friends, or just kicking back after a long day, this drink hits all the right notes. I’ve made this drink countless times—here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: don’t skip the fresh pineapple garnish; it gives the drink a fresh, beachy aroma that really completes the experience.
Relaxer
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Highball or hurricane glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) peach schnapps
– 1 oz (30 ml) coconut cream
– 2 oz (60 ml) pineapple juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) cranberry juice
– Ice (enough to fill shaker and glass)
– Pineapple slice or maraschino cherry, for garnish (optional)
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, peach schnapps, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice.
- Shake well—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill your glass with fresh ice, then strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice or cherry. For extra flair, add a tiny umbrella or a sprig of mint.
Tips for Success
– Use fresh juice when you can. It makes a big difference in flavor—especially the pineapple juice.
– Shake it well. You want everything cold and fully combined. The coconut cream blends best when chilled and shaken thoroughly.
– Balance is key. If the drink is too sweet for your taste, reduce the coconut cream or cranberry juice a bit, or add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
– Serve immediately. This drink is best icy-cold and freshly shaken.
Make-Ahead Notes
Hosting a party? You can scale this up and mix everything (except the ice and coconut cream) in a pitcher ahead of time. Just stir in the coconut cream right before serving and shake individual servings with ice for that creamy texture.
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
– Vodka: Swap with light rum for a more tropical profile.
– Peach schnapps: Try apricot brandy or orange liqueur for a different twist.
– Coconut cream: Use coconut milk for a lighter version, or try a dairy-free coconut creamer if you’re avoiding dairy altogether.
– Fruit juices: No cranberry juice? Pomegranate or cherry juice can stand in. Pineapple juice is key, though—don’t skip it.
What It Tastes Like
The Relaxer is smooth, slightly creamy, and full of tropical flavor. You’ll taste sweet pineapple and coconut first, followed by a fruity tang from the cranberry. The vodka and schnapps add a subtle warmth, but they don’t overpower the drink. It’s the kind of cocktail that goes down easy—maybe a little too easy.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails—this one’s like dessert and a beach vacation rolled into one.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this drink with:
Grilled Shrimp or Scallops
The smoky, savory flavors of seafood balance the sweetness of the Relaxer beautifully.
Spicy Appetizers
Try it with jalapeño poppers, spicy chicken wings, or Thai spring rolls. The creamy coconut and fruitiness help tame the heat.
Fruit Salad
Especially one with mango, kiwi, and pineapple. It echoes the drink’s tropical notes without being too heavy.
Storing Leftovers
Got extra mix (without ice)? Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake again before serving. If you’ve already added ice, it’s best to drink it right away to avoid dilution.
Variations to Try
Tropical Relaxer
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) mango juice and a splash of grenadine.
– Makes it even fruitier and adds a beautiful sunset color.
Berry Relaxer
– Use raspberry vodka and blueberry juice in place of cranberry.
– Blend with ice for a frozen twist.
Spicy Relaxer
– Add a small slice of jalapeño and a dash of hot sauce.
– Shake well and strain—great for spice lovers.
Virgin Relaxer (Non-Alcoholic)
– Skip the vodka and schnapps. Use extra pineapple and cranberry juice.
– Add a splash of coconut water for a light, tropical finish.
FAQs
Can I make this in a big batch for parties?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients by however many servings you need. Mix everything (except the ice) in a pitcher and chill. Shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
Is it only a summer drink?
Not at all. It’s great anytime you need a little escape. I’ve enjoyed it on snowy nights too—it’s like a mini vacation in a glass.
How can I make it less sweet?
Cut back slightly on the coconut cream or cranberry juice. You can also add a splash of fresh lime juice to brighten things up.
What’s the best garnish?
A pineapple slice or cherry is classic, but mint leaves or a citrus twist work too. Have fun with it!
Can kids have a version?
Yes! The Virgin Relaxer is a fun, fruity drink for kids. It’s like a tropical punch—just as tasty without the alcohol.
What kind of glass should I use?
A highball glass works great—it gives you room for ice and garnish. A hurricane glass adds a tropical touch if you want to dress it up.
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Whether you’re sipping it by the pool or just looking for a drink to help you unwind, the Relaxer is a winner. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Cheers to your next relaxing moment!
