A Zulu cocktail is like a tropical vacation in a glass-bright, fruity, and just the right amount of indulgent. With layers of pineapple, coconut, citrus, and a touch of almond from amaretto, it’s the kind of drink that brings people together. I’ve made this cocktail countless times for backyard BBQs and summer hangs, and it never lasts long! Here’s how to make your own Zulu at home-plus a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.
Zulu
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Hurricane or highball glass
Ingredients
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) amaretto liqueur
– 1 oz (30 ml) coconut cream (not coconut milk)
– 2 oz (60 ml) pineapple juice (fresh if possible)
– 1 oz (30 ml) dark rum
– 1 oz (30 ml) orange juice
– Splash of cranberry juice
– Crushed ice
– Optional garnish: Edible flower, pineapple wedge, cocktail umbrella
Equipment
– Shaker
– Jigger or measuring spoons
– Strainer (if your shaker doesn’t have one)
– Glass: hurricane or highball
– Bar spoon (optional)
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your hurricane or highball glass into the freezer for a few minutes while you prep the drink. This helps keep everything cool and refreshing.
- Fill your shaker with ice. Enough to chill the drink thoroughly-about halfway full works great.
- Add your spirits and mixers:
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) amaretto
- 1 oz (30 ml) dark rum
- 1 oz (30 ml) coconut cream
- 2 oz (60 ml) pineapple juice
- 1 oz (30 ml) orange juice
- Shake it up! Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want it well-chilled and creamy. A good shake also helps mix the coconut cream evenly.
- Fill your glass with crushed ice. If you don’t have crushed ice, just wrap ice cubes in a clean towel and smash them with something heavy (a rolling pin works great).
- Strain the drink into your glass. Pour slowly over the ice.
- Add a splash of cranberry juice. This adds a pop of color and a light tart finish. Pour gently so it floats on top for a layered look.
- Garnish and serve. Top with an edible flower, a pineapple wedge, or a fun umbrella. Enjoy immediately!
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh juice when possible-it really brings out the bright, tropical flavors.
– Don’t skip the shake. It blends the coconut cream smoothly and chills everything evenly.
– Substituting ingredients? Use coconut milk for a lighter version, or swap amaretto with peach schnapps for a fruitier twist.
– Spiced rum adds warmth and a little extra depth-great for cooler evenings.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix everything (except the cranberry juice and ice) a few hours ahead. Store in the fridge, then shake with ice just before serving. Perfect for parties!
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftover mix (without ice), store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake well before serving again.
Serving Suggestions
The Zulu’s tropical flair pairs beautifully with:
Grilled Seafood
Think shrimp skewers or grilled fish tacos. The smoky char balances the cocktail’s sweetness.
Spicy Starters
Buffalo wings, jalapeño poppers, or spicy hummus give a nice contrast to the creamy coconut and fruit notes.
Fresh Tropical Salad
Try mango, avocado, and arugula with a citrus vinaigrette. It mirrors the Zulu’s sunny flavor.
Variations
Safari Sunset
– Swap pineapple juice for passion fruit juice
– Add a dash of grenadine for a layered look
Jungle Jive
– Blend in half a banana
– Top with a splash of soda water for fizz
Tropical Twist
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) mango nectar
– Squeeze in a bit of lime juice for brightness
Virgin Zulu
Skip the rum and amaretto. Add a splash of almond extract (1/4 tsp) and use sparkling water or ginger ale for a mocktail that still feels like a celebration.
Common Questions
When should I serve a Zulu?
It’s a hit at summer parties, BBQs, Mardi Gras celebrations, or anytime you want to serve something fun and colorful.
Can I prep Zulu cocktails in batches?
Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients and mix everything (except cranberry juice and ice) in a pitcher. Store chilled and shake individual servings with ice when ready.
Is it vegan-friendly?
Yes, just double-check your coconut cream-some brands contain dairy or animal-derived thickeners.
Non-alcoholic options?
Use sparkling water or ginger ale instead of rum, and almond extract in place of amaretto. Still sweet and fruity, with a nice little fizz.
How can I make it extra festive?
Garnish, garnish, garnish! Go wild with colorful straws, pineapple wedges, edible flowers, or even a rim of toasted coconut.
What should I watch out for?
Make sure to shake it well-coconut cream can separate if under-mixed. And always taste before serving to adjust the balance of sweet vs. tart.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights with friends-it’s bright, a little indulgent, and always a conversation starter. Whether you stick to the classic or try a fun variation, the Zulu is all about enjoying the moment. Cheers!
