The Bourbon Pineapple Smash is a refreshing and tropical cocktail that combines the rich, smoky notes of bourbon with the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh pineapple and citrus. This easy-to-make drink is perfect for warm evenings, backyard gatherings, or any time you want a bold yet fruity cocktail with a hint of spice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and refreshing – A perfect balance of bourbon’s warmth and pineapple’s sweetness.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
- Versatile – Adjust the sweetness and strength to your liking.
- Great for any occasion – A fantastic summer cocktail or cozy winter drink.
- Customizable – Experiment with different fruit and herb additions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bourbon
- Fresh pineapple (chunks or juice)
- Fresh lemon juice
- Honey or simple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves
- Ice
- Club soda (optional, for a fizzy version)
Directions
Step 1: Muddle the Ingredients
- In a cocktail shaker, add fresh pineapple chunks, mint leaves, and honey/simple syrup.
- Muddle well to release the juices and flavors.
Step 2: Add Bourbon and Shake
- Pour in bourbon and fresh lemon juice.
- Add ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda if desired for a lighter, bubbly version.
Step 4: Garnish
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge, mint sprig, or lemon slice.
- Enjoy immediately!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1 cocktail
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Sweeter Version: Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
- Tropical Mix: Add a splash of coconut water for extra island vibes.
- Mocktail Version: Replace bourbon with ginger beer or iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.
Storage
- Freshly made: Best enjoyed immediately.
- Make-ahead: Mix all ingredients except ice and club soda, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice before serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, but fresh pineapple gives the best flavor. If using canned, opt for unsweetened juice.
What’s the best bourbon for this cocktail?
A smooth, slightly sweet bourbon like Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, or Bulleit works well.
Can I make this in a pitcher for a crowd?
Yes! Scale up the ingredients and serve in a pitcher with ice.
What’s the best way to muddle pineapple?
Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to press and extract juice from the fruit.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes! Lime juice adds a tangier, slightly more tropical twist.
What glass should I serve this in?
A rocks glass or tumbler is ideal for this cocktail.
Can I use a different spirit?
Yes! Rum or tequila also pair well with pineapple.
How do I make it less strong?
Reduce bourbon to 1 oz and top with more club soda for a lighter drink.
Can I add bitters?
Yes! A dash of Angostura bitters adds depth to the cocktail.
Is this drink served shaken or stirred?
Shaken, to fully mix the flavors and chill the drink.
Conclusion
The Bourbon Pineapple Smash is a bold, refreshing cocktail that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it strong and smoky or light and fizzy, this drink is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Try different variations and find your perfect mix!
PrintBourbon Pineapple Smash
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bourbon Pineapple Smash is a bold and refreshing cocktail made with smoky bourbon, sweet pineapple, zesty lime, and a hint of mint. The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and boozy, it’s great for sipping on warm days or serving at parties!
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 2 ounces pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 ounce lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup (or honey syrup)
- 3–4 fresh mint leaves
- 2–3 chunks fresh pineapple
- Ice (for shaking and serving)
- Club soda (optional, for topping)
For Garnish:
- Mint sprig
- Pineapple wedge
- Lime wheel
Instructions
- Muddle the flavors
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the pineapple chunks, mint leaves, and lime juice until well combined and juicy.
- Add the liquids
- Pour in the bourbon, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Strain & serve
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Optionally, top with a splash of club soda for a lighter finish.
- Garnish & enjoy
- Garnish with a mint sprig, pineapple wedge, or lime wheel.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Want it smokier? Use a smoked bourbon or add a splash of mezcal for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Make it sweeter? Add a dash of maple syrup or extra simple syrup.
- Batch it for a party: Multiply the recipe and serve in a pitcher with ice!
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