Pineapple + Basil Smash Cocktail
A fresh, tropical cocktail with sweet pineapple, fragrant basil, and a bright citrus kick—light, aromatic, and super refreshing.
⏱️ Time & Servings
- Prep: 5–10 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
🧾 Ingredients
Cocktail Base
- 60 ml (2 oz) white rum (or vodka, optional)
- 90 ml (3 oz) pineapple juice (fresh if possible)
- 15–20 ml (½–¾ oz) lime juice
- 1–2 tsp sugar or honey syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
Aromatics
- 6–8 fresh basil leaves
- Ice cubes
Optional garnish
- Pineapple slice
- Basil sprig
- Lime wedge
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Muddle the basil
- In a shaker or sturdy glass, add:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Lime juice
- Sugar or honey syrup
- Gently muddle (press lightly) to release basil aroma.
👉 Don’t over-crush or it can turn bitter.
2. Add liquids
- Pour in:
- Pineapple juice
- Rum (or vodka, if using)
3. Shake well
- Add ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain and serve
- Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- You can use a fine strainer for a smoother texture (optional).
5. Garnish
- Top with a basil sprig and pineapple slice
- Add a lime wedge for extra freshness
🍹 Taste Profile
- Sweet: pineapple
- Fresh: basil
- Tangy: lime
- Smooth: rum or vodka base
✨ Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh pineapple juice for a brighter flavor
- Lightly slap basil leaves before adding to release aroma
- Adjust sweetness depending on pineapple ripeness
- Chill glass beforehand for a more refreshing drink
🔄 Variations
Mocktail version 🍍
- Skip alcohol
- Add sparkling water or soda for fizz
Spicy twist 🌶️
- Add a thin slice of jalapeño while muddling
Sparkling version ✨
- Top with soda water or prosecco
Tropical upgrade 🌴
- Add coconut water for a lighter, beach-style drink
