Pineapple Basil Rum Recipe | Tropical Summer Cocktail with Fresh

Pineapple Basil Rum Recipe – When tropical fruit meets garden-fresh herbs, something truly magical happens — and that’s exactly what you get with this Pineapple Basil Rum Recipe. This vibrant and refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of pineapple, the aromatic earthiness of basil, and the smooth, rich depth of white or dark rum. The result is a drink that’s bright, balanced, and irresistibly summery.

Perfect for poolside lounging, backyard get-togethers, or date nights under the stars, this drink feels like a sip of paradise.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

• Cuisine: Tropical / Caribbean Inspired

• Course: Beverage / Cocktail

• Servings: 2 glasses

• Calories: 175 kcal per serving

Equipment Needed

To create your refreshing Pineapple Basil Rum cocktail, you’ll need:

• Cocktail shaker

• Muddler

• Jigger or measuring cup

• Citrus juicer (optional)

• Fine mesh strainer (optional)

• Ice cubes

• Highball or coupe glasses

• Bar spoon

Ingredients

For 2 servings, gather the following:

• ½ cup fresh pineapple juice (or use blended fresh pineapple)

• 2 oz white or dark rum

• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

• 4–5 fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish)

• 1 tsp honey or simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• Ice cubes (as needed)

• Club soda or sparkling water, to top up

• Pineapple wedges or lime slices for garnish

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

Instructions

Step 1: Muddle the Basil

Place fresh basil leaves and honey (or syrup) into your cocktail shaker. Gently muddle them together with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the basil’s natural oils and aroma. Be gentle — over-muddling can make the drink taste bitter.

Step 2: Add Pineapple and Lime Juice

Pour in the fresh pineapple juice and lime juice. The combination of sweet pineapple and tangy lime creates the tropical base that defines this drink.

Step 3: Add the Rum

Add rum to the shaker — white rum for a clean, crisp finish, or dark rum for a richer, more complex flavor. Both work beautifully depending on your taste preference.

Step 4: Shake with Ice

Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 10–12 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.

Step 5: Strain and Serve

Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice. Top it off with a splash of club soda or sparkling water for a light, effervescent touch.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

Garnish your cocktail with a basil sprig and a wedge of pineapple or lime. Serve immediately and sip your way to tropical bliss.

Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Basil Rum Cocktail

1. Use Fresh Pineapple Juice: Freshly blended pineapple gives the best texture and flavor — bottled versions often taste too sweet.

2. Balance the Sweetness: Adjust honey or syrup according to your pineapple’s natural sweetness.

3. Choose Quality Rum: Light rum is ideal for a refreshing, zesty flavor, while aged or spiced rum adds depth.

4. Chill Your Ingredients: Cold juices and rum help preserve the bubbles when topped with soda.

5. Make It Fancy: Rim your glasses with sugar or shredded coconut for a beach-bar look.

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Flavor Variations

• Spicy Pineapple Basil Rum: Add a thin slice of jalapeño or a dash of chili powder for a subtle kick.

• Coconut Pineapple Basil Rum: Replace soda water with coconut water for a creamy, tropical twist.

• Frozen Pineapple Basil Rum: Blend all ingredients with ice for a smooth, slushy version.

• Mocktail Version: Skip the rum and add extra pineapple juice or sparkling water for a refreshing non-alcoholic treat.

• Mint-Infused Version: Mix in a few mint leaves along with the basil for an extra herbal lift.

Serving Suggestions

This tropical drink pairs perfectly with summertime meals and snacks. Try serving it with:

• Grilled shrimp skewers or seafood tacos

• Pineapple fried rice or tropical chicken salad

• Spicy Thai or Caribbean dishes

• Light appetizers like cucumber rolls or avocado toast

• Fruity desserts such as mango sorbet or coconut cake

It’s also a great cocktail for summer brunches, beach parties, or backyard barbecues. Serve it chilled in tall glasses or even in a hollowed-out pineapple for a fun presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Pineapple Basil Rum Recipe is everything you want in a cocktail — simple, fresh, and bursting with layers of flavor. It perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and herbal notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

The basil adds sophistication and depth to the drink without overpowering the fruity notes. The pineapple brings tropical sweetness, and rum ties it all together with smooth warmth. Each sip feels like a mini vacation, full of sunshine and relaxation