This tropical cocktail tastes like vacation in a glass-cool, creamy, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy. The Smooth Sailing has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, especially when I’m craving something fruity but not too heavy. With rum, pineapple, and coconut all working together, it’s smooth, refreshing, and perfect for sipping slowly as the sun sets.
Smooth Sailing
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Equipment: Blender, tall glass or hurricane glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) light rum
– 4 oz (120 ml) pineapple juice (fresh is best!)
– 1 oz (30 ml) coconut cream
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
– Ice: about 1 cup or a generous handful
– Pineapple slice: for garnish
– Maraschino cherry: for garnish
Method
- Grab your blender and toss in a generous handful of ice.
- Pour in the light rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and lime juice.
- Blend everything together until smooth and frosty. You’re looking for a creamy texture with no big chunks of ice left.
- Pour the drink into a tall glass or hurricane glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprig of mint or a lime wedge too.
Tips for the Best Smooth Sailing
– Use fresh lime juice and fresh pineapple juice if you can-it really makes the flavors pop.
– Don’t over-blend. You want a thick, icy texture, not a watery one.
– If your coconut cream has separated in the can, give it a stir before measuring.
– For a lighter version, use coconut milk instead of cream.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prep the liquid ingredients ahead of time and keep the mix in the fridge (without the ice). Store it in a sealed jar or bottle for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just shake it up with ice or blend again for that frosty texture.
Serving Suggestions
Smooth Sailing goes great with beachy bites. Here are a few favorites:
Grilled Shrimp
That smoky char from the grill pairs beautifully with the tropical sweetness of the drink.
Fresh Fruit Salad
The cocktail’s bright flavors bring out the best in juicy melons, berries, and citrus.
Coconut Rice
This creamy side dish mirrors the coconut in the drink-super satisfying together.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: don’t skimp on the lime. That little splash of citrus keeps the drink from tasting too sweet and really brightens everything up.
Variations to Try
Spicy Smooth Sailing
– Add a splash of jalapeño-infused rum for a little heat.
– Make it the same way, just swap in the spicy rum.
Berry Smooth Sailing
– Replace the pineapple juice with mixed berry juice.
– It gives the drink a deeper color and a slightly tart edge.
Mint Smooth Sailing
– Muddle a few fresh mint leaves in the glass before pouring in the drink.
– Adds a refreshing herbal note that’s especially nice on hot days.
Virgin Smooth Sailing
– Skip the rum and double the pineapple juice.
– Still creamy and delicious, and perfect for everyone to enjoy.
Swaps & Substitutions
– No light rum? Use dark rum for a richer, deeper flavor.
– Coconut cream too rich? Try coconut milk instead-it’s lighter but still tasty.
– Out of pineapple juice? Mango juice gives a fun tropical twist.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
– Too much coconut cream: It can overpower the other flavors and make the drink too thick. Start with 1 oz and adjust to taste.
– Using sweetened canned pineapple juice: It can make the drink overly sweet. Look for unsweetened or fresh-pressed juice.
– Not blending enough: You want a smooth, icy consistency-no big chunks.
FAQs
What kind of rum works best?
Light rum is traditional, but dark rum adds a deeper flavor. Feel free to experiment!
Can I use canned pineapple juice?
Yes, but fresh juice gives a brighter, more natural flavor. If you use canned, go for unsweetened.
How can I make it lower in calories?
Use coconut milk instead of cream, and reduce the amount slightly. You’ll still get that tropical flavor without as much richness.
Do I need a blender?
It helps with the texture, but you can shake all the ingredients with ice and strain it into a glass. It’ll be a little thinner, but still tasty.
How long can I store leftovers?
Keep the mix (without ice) in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake or stir well before serving.
What’s the best garnish?
Classic garnishes are a pineapple wedge and cherry, but mint leaves or a lime wheel are great too.
Smooth Sailing is one of those drinks that instantly lifts your mood. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, lounging by the pool, or just winding down after work, it’s a little glass of island escape. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s earned a permanent spot in my cocktail rotation.
