Painkiller Cocktail Recipe – How to Make a Creamy Tropical Rum

Painkiller Cocktail Recipe – If you’re dreaming of a beachside escape in a glass, the Painkiller Cocktail is your answer. Born in the British Virgin Islands and made famous by the Soggy Dollar Bar in Jost Van Dyke, this creamy and citrusy rum cocktail is a classic tiki-style drink that delivers rich tropical flavors with a satisfying kick. Featuring dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut, the Painkiller is garnished with grated nutmeg for a warm, spicy finish.

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This drink is not just a vacation in a glass—it’s also a staple for those who enjoy well-balanced tropical cocktails. Whether you’re serving it poolside, at a summer party, or simply winding down after a long day, the Painkiller Cocktail Recipe will transport you to a paradise island with every sip.

Recipe overview

• Prep Time: 3 minutes

• Active Time: 2 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes

• Cuisine: Caribbean / Tiki

• Course: Cocktail / Beverage

• Servings: 1

• Calories: ~330 kcal per serving

Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker

• Jigger or shot glass

• Bar spoon (optional)

• Strainer

• Tall glass or tiki mug

• Grater (for nutmeg)

• Ice

Ingredients

• 2 oz dark rum (Pusser’s Rum is traditional)

• 4 oz pineapple juice

• 1 oz orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)

• 1 oz cream of coconut (such as Coco Lopez)

• Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)

• Pineapple wedge or cherry (optional garnish)

• Ice cubes or crushed ice

Instructions

1. Chill Your Glass
   Start by placing your tiki mug or tall glass in the freezer for a couple of minutes or fill it with ice water to chill while you make the drink.

2. Add Ingredients to the Shaker
   In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour in the dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut.

3. Shake Vigorously
   Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds. This helps combine the creamy coconut with the juices and rum for a smooth texture.

4. Strain and Pour
   Discard any ice water from your serving glass and fill it with fresh crushed or cubed ice. Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.

5. Garnish
   Top with freshly grated nutmeg for a warm, aromatic finish. Add a pineapple wedge or maraschino cherry if desired.

6. Serve Immediately
   Enjoy your tropical delight immediately while it’s cold and refreshing!

Nutrition

Tips for the Best Painkiller Cocktail

• Use Crushed Ice: Crushed ice not only chills the drink quickly but also adds a classic tiki feel.

• Go Authentic: Pusser’s Rum is the original spirit used in this cocktail and offers the most authentic flavor.

• Fresh Juice Matters: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the cream of coconut.

• Nutmeg is a Must: Don’t skip the nutmeg—it’s more than just a garnish; it rounds out the flavors with its warm spice.

• Scale It Up: Want to make a pitcher for guests? Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and shake in batches or stir in a large pitcher.

Why You’ll Love This Cocktail

• Rich & Creamy: The cream of coconut adds luxurious texture.

• Tropical & Fruity: Pineapple and orange juices bring a burst of citrusy freshness.

• Warm & Spiced: The nutmeg garnish elevates the flavor.

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, no fancy techniques.

• Perfect for Summer: Great for beach parties, BBQs, or sipping by the pool.

Conclusion

Whether you’re on vacation or just wish you were, the Painkiller Cocktail Recipe is your tropical escape in a glass. Rich, fruity, and creamy with just the right amount of rum, it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and refreshment. Serve it at your next gathering, or enjoy it solo while imagining the gentle sway of palm trees—either way, it’s an experience worth savoring.

tisha