Planter’s Punch Recipe – Classic Caribbean Rum Cocktail,

Planter’s Punch Recipe – The Planter’s Punch cocktail traces its roots to Jamaica, where plantation workers and owners alike found creative ways to mix rum with local fruits, sugar, and spices. The earliest written recipe appeared in the late 1800s and quickly spread across the world as travelers brought the drink to Europe and the United States.

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Its signature formula follows the classic Caribbean rhyme:
“One of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, four of weak.”

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican, Tropical

• Course: Cocktail / Beverage

• Servings: 1 drink

• Calories: 200–260 calories per serving

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Active Time: 10 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes (optional 10 minutes chilling)

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients 

Rum

• 2 oz dark Jamaican rum (traditional choice)

Citrus & Fruit Juices

• 1 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)

• 2 oz orange juice

• 1 oz pineapple juice

Sweet Components

• 1/2 oz grenadine

• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)

Spices

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• Optional: pinch of nutmeg (for garnish or aroma)

Other

• Ice cubes or crushed ice

Garnish

• Orange slice

• Pineapple wedge

• Maraschino cherry

• Mint sprig

Equipment Needed

To create a professional-quality Planter’s Punch at home, gather the following tools:

• Cocktail shaker

• Jigger or measuring tools

• Mixing spoon

• Highball or hurricane glass

• Citrus juicer

• Knife & cutting board

• Strainer

• Ice

Optional: punch bowl (for large batches)

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Citrus

Squeeze fresh lime juice to get the brightest, most natural flavor. Avoid bottled lime juice, as it changes the balance and sharpness of the drink.

2. Add Liquids to the Shaker

Fill a shaker with ice, then pour in:

• Dark rum

• Lime juice

• Orange juice

• Pineapple juice

• Simple syrup

• Bitters

This blend forms the core flavor of your Planter’s Punch.

3. Shake Until Chilled

Shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds.
This ensures the ingredients are well-blended and properly chilled before serving.

4. Prepare Your Glass

Fill a highball or hurricane glass with fresh ice.
Crushed ice works beautifully for a more tropical look and slower dilution.

5. Strain and Pour

Strain the mixture into your prepared glass.
This gives the drink its smooth, layered flavor.

6. Add Grenadine

Slowly pour grenadine into the glass.
It will sink to the bottom, creating a beautiful red-to-orange gradient—classic Planter’s Punch styling.

7. Garnish and Serve

Top your cocktail with:

• A pineapple wedge

• A slice of orange

• A maraschino cherry

• Optional mint sprig

Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy your tropical masterpiece.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Values vary based on juice brands, amount of syrup, and rum proof.

Tips for the Perfect Planter’s Punch

Use High-Quality Jamaican Rum

The rum defines this drink—choose a dark, rich variety for the best flavor.

Always Go Fresh on Lime

Bottled lime juice doesn’t blend well and tastes sharp or artificial.

Balance Sweetness to Taste

Some people prefer a tart punch; others prefer sweeter. Adjust accordingly.

Layer the Grenadine

It gives the punch its signature crimson hue and adds a gentle sweetness.

Serve Cold

Planter’s Punch is best chilled with plenty of ice.

Final Thoughts

Planter’s Punch is more than a drink—it’s a celebration of Caribbean tradition, craftsmanship, and tropical flavor. With its rich rum base, fruity essence, and refreshing finish, it’s a cocktail perfect for relaxing at home, hosting a party, or adding an exotic touch to any occasion.