Bahama Mama Recipe – Tropical Rum Cocktail, Ingredients,

Bahama Mama Recipe – Vibrant, fruity, and undeniably tropical, the Bahama Mama is one of the most beloved Caribbean cocktails in the world. Its origins trace back to the Bahamas, where bartenders created rum-forward drinks that captured the essence of island life—sunshine, turquoise waters, and the irresistible rhythm of calypso music.

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The Bahama Mama is a perfect example of that heritage, combining multiple types of rum with fruit juices, coconut flavors, and a splash of grenadine to craft a drink that tastes like a Caribbean vacation in a glass.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Caribbean / Bahamian

• Course: Cocktail / Beverage

• Servings: 1 drink

• Calories: Approximately 220–300 calories

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Active Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

For One Bahama Mama Cocktail

• 1 oz coconut rum

• 1 oz dark rum

• ½ oz overproof rum (optional, for an extra kick)

• 1 oz pineapple juice

• 1 oz orange juice

• ½ oz grenadine syrup

• ½ oz banana liqueur (traditional addition)

• Ice cubes

Equipment

• Highball glass or hurricane glass

• Cocktail shaker

• Jigger

• Strainer

• Bar spoon

• Ice scoop

• Optional: blender (for a frozen version)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass

Fill a tall highball or hurricane glass with fresh ice. This keeps your drink chilled and helps maintain layers if you’re pouring carefully.

2. Add Cocktail Ingredients to the Shaker

In a cocktail shaker, add:

• Coconut rum

• Dark rum

• Banana liqueur

• Pineapple juice

• Orange juice

• A handful of ice

Shake vigorously for 8–10 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.

3. Strain Into the Glass

Strain the mixture over the ice in your prepared glass. The drink will have a bright, tropical color thanks to the fruit juices.

4. Add Grenadine

Pour grenadine slowly along the inside of the glass.
It will settle beautifully at the bottom, creating a sunset-like layered effect—one of the signature features of an authentic Bahama Mama.

5. Garnish & Serve

Top with a pineapple wedge, orange wheel, and cherry.
Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy the refreshing tropical experience.

Nutritional Information 

Calorie content varies based on juice, rum types, and grenadine amount.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Bahama Mama

1. Use Fresh Fruit Juices

Fresh pineapple or orange juice drastically enhances the flavor and aroma.

2. Keep the Rum Balanced

Avoid using too much overproof rum; it can overpower the delicate fruit and coconut notes.

3. Shake Well

Shaking allows the fruit juices and rum to blend smoothly and enhances the drink’s refreshing quality.

4. Layer with Care

To maintain the signature gradient effect, pour grenadine slowly after the drink is in the glass.

5. Use Quality Grenadine

Choose real pomegranate-based grenadine rather than artificial syrups for better taste and color.

6. Add Tiki Style Flair

Serve in a tiki mug with a mini umbrella or bamboo straw for authentic island vibes.

Conclusion

The Bahama Mama is more than just a cocktail—it’s a tropical experience. With layers of sweet fruit juice, smooth coconut notes, and the warm depth of rum, it embodies the spirit of the Caribbean in every sip. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or crafted to bring a bit of island paradise to a cold winter evening, this drink remains a beloved classic for good reason.