Pineapple Basil Smash Recipe – Bright, refreshing, and packed with vibrant flavor, this tropical-herb cocktail brings together juicy pineapple and fragrant basil for a drink that feels like sunshine in a glass. Perfect for warm afternoons, garden parties, brunch gatherings, or relaxed evenings, this cocktail balances sweet fruit, fresh herbs, and a clean spirit base into a beautifully smooth sip. The Pineapple Basil Smash Recipe appears here naturally as a modern favorite that combines tropical flair with garden-fresh elegance.
Recipe Overview
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Cuisines: Contemporary / Tropical Fusion
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Course: Beverage / Cocktail
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Servings: 1 cocktail (easy to scale)
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Calories (approx.): 180–200 kcal per serving
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Active Time: 10 minutes
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Resting Time: None
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Total Time: 10 minutes
Everything comes together quickly, making it ideal for spontaneous hosting.
Equipment Needed
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Cocktail shaker
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Muddler or spoon
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Fine mesh strainer
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Jigger or measuring spoon
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Rocks glass or highball glass
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Ice scoop
Optional:
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Citrus juicer
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Microplane for zest
Ingredients
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2 oz vodka or white rum
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1½ oz pineapple juice (fresh preferred)
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½ oz fresh lime juice
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½ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
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6–8 fresh basil leaves
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Ice cubes
Garnish Options
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Basil sprig
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Pineapple wedge or leaf
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Lime wheel
Instructions
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Muddle the basil
Add basil leaves and simple syrup to the shaker. Gently muddle to release aroma without tearing the leaves. -
Add liquids
Pour in vodka (or rum), pineapple juice, and fresh lime juice. -
Add ice and shake
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds. -
Strain into glass
Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice and strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer. -
Garnish and serve
Add basil sprig or pineapple wedge. Serve immediately..
Nutrition Table (Per Serving – Estimated)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20–24 g |
| Sugars | 16–20 g |
| Protein | 0–1 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0–1 g |
| Sodium | <10 mg |
| Potassium | 90–130 mg |
| Alcohol Content | ~12–15% ABV (varies by spirit) |
Values vary based on juice brand and syrup amount.
Tips & Variations
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Sweeter version: Add extra syrup or a splash of pineapple nectar.
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Drier style: Reduce syrup and increase lime.
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Sparkling twist: Top with soda water.
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Spicy kick: Add a thin slice of jalapeño while muddling.
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Mocktail option: Replace alcohol with sparkling water and extra pineapple juice.
For batch service, muddle basil in syrup first, then mix with juices and spirit. Shake individual servings for freshness.
Final Thoughts
With its refreshing balance of tropical fruit and garden-fresh herbs, this cocktail offers a modern, elegant drinking experience. Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and endlessly customizable, it’s a go-to choice for anyone who loves bright flavors and effortless sophistication. Whether enjoyed under the sun or served at an evening gathering, this drink delivers vibrant freshness in every sip.
