Smoked Pineapple Cocktail

A refreshing pineapple cocktail in a clear glass filled with ice cubes, garnished with a large triangular slice of pineapple on the rim. The glass rests on a wooden coaster, and a textured pineapple decor piece is subtly visible in the background, set against a sleek grey countertop that contrasts with the vibrant yellow of the drink.

A Tropical Drink with a Smoky Twist

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, caramelized pineapple and a hint of smokiness—it’s the perfect balance of tropical freshness with a rich, warm depth of flavor. This Smoked Pineapple Cocktail takes your classic fruity drink to the next level by infusing grilled pineapple with a subtle smoky essence, creating a unique and unforgettable sip. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a summer BBQ, or just unwinding after a long day, this cocktail brings the perfect mix of sweetness, tang, and a little fire.

What makes this drink truly special is the way the smoky notes complement the juicy, tropical flavors without overpowering them. The pineapple is lightly grilled to enhance its natural sugars, then mixed with fresh citrus, your favorite spirit, and just a touch of smokiness for an irresistible finish. It’s a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that’s easy to make but feels like something you’d order at a craft cocktail bar. So grab your shaker, fire up the grill, and get ready to impress yourself (and your guests) with this bold and refreshing drink!

Smoked Pineapple Cocktail with ice and grilled pineapple garnish on a wooden table.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Pineapple Cocktail

There’s something about this Smoked Pineapple Cocktail that makes it unforgettable—a perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and citrusy flavors that come together in one refreshing drink. If you’re a fan of tropical cocktails but want something more complex and exciting, this is the perfect recipe for you. Unlike your standard piña colada or pineapple margarita, this cocktail brings in a smoky depth that makes each sip feel like a mini getaway to a high-end cocktail lounge or a beachside bonfire.

Not only does this drink look stunning, but it also delivers an incredible flavor experience. The grilling process caramelizes the pineapple’s natural sugars, giving it a rich, slightly charred sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky element. Whether you’re making this for a summer cookout, a date night in, or just because you want to treat yourself to something special, it’s guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s super easy to customize—switch up the spirits, add a little spice, or even turn it into a frozen slushie. However you enjoy it, one thing’s for sure: once you try this cocktail, it’ll become a go-to favorite.

Top-down view of a Smoked Pineapple Cocktail surrounded by grilled pineapple slices on a dark rustic tray.

What is a Smoked Pineapple Cocktail?

At its core, a Smoked Pineapple Cocktail is a tropical drink with a bold, smoky twist. It takes the naturally sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple and enhances it with a subtle smokiness, creating a well-balanced, refreshing, and slightly complex cocktail. This isn’t your average fruity drink—it’s a sophisticated blend of flavors that appeals to cocktail lovers who enjoy a mix of sweet, citrusy, and charred notes in their beverages.

The magic of this cocktail comes from grilled or smoked pineapple, which adds a deeper layer of flavor you won’t get from fresh pineapple alone. The heat caramelizes the fruit’s natural sugars, bringing out rich, almost toffee-like undertones while adding a slight charred essence. This pairs beautifully with a smoky spirit like mezcal or aged rum, but it’s also incredible with tequila, whiskey, or even vodka for a more neutral base. The smokiness can also be enhanced in different ways—using a smoking gun, torching the garnish, or even rimming the glass with smoked salt or spices.

This drink is perfect for those who love tropical cocktails but want something more refined and unique. It’s not overly sweet like some pineapple-based drinks; instead, it has a balanced complexity that makes it stand out. Whether you’re sipping it by the pool, serving it at a backyard BBQ, or making it as a signature drink for a party, the Smoked Pineapple Cocktail is guaranteed to impress. It’s the ultimate combination of vacation vibes meets craft cocktail sophistication, and once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been smoking your cocktails all along!

Try some of our other recipes!

Icy green cucumber lemon mint drink in a highball glass with fresh ingredients around.
Green Goddess Vodka Spritz Cocktail
Read More
Emerald Isle Gin Fizz cocktail with foam, lime, mint, and gold flakes on a marble bar top.
Emerald Isle Gin Fizz Cocktail
Read More
A Clover Club Lite Cocktail served on a polished wooden table, garnished with a lemon slice and raspberry.
Clover Club Lite Cocktail
Read More

Best Alcohol Choices for This Cocktail

Choosing the right alcohol for your Smoked Pineapple Cocktail can completely transform the drink. Since pineapple is naturally sweet and slightly tart, it pairs well with a variety of spirits, but the best choices enhance the smoky element while balancing the tropical flavors. Whether you want a smooth and mellow drink or something with a bolder kick, here’s how different alcohol choices affect the cocktail—and which one might be perfect for you.

1. Mezcal – The Ultimate Smoky Choice

If you really want to lean into the smoky theme, mezcal is the way to go. Made from agave and traditionally roasted in underground pits, mezcal has a deep, earthy smokiness that complements the caramelized, grilled pineapple beautifully. This pairing creates a cocktail that’s rich, slightly spicy, and full of depth—ideal for those who love bold flavors. If you enjoy mezcal margaritas or smoky Old Fashioneds, this will be right up your alley.

2. Aged Rum – Smooth & Slightly Smoky

For a smoother, more tropical twist, an aged rum works wonders in this cocktail. Aged rums have notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel, which blend perfectly with the smoky-sweet pineapple. The result? A well-rounded, slightly smoky drink that feels elegant and easy to sip. If you love piña coladas but want something less creamy and more refined, try using an aged rum for your Smoked Pineapple Cocktail.

3. Reposado Tequila – A Balanced, Earthy Option

If you’re a tequila lover, reposado tequila is the best choice for this cocktail. Reposado (which means “rested”) is aged in barrels for two months to a year, giving it a mellow, slightly oaky character without losing the classic tequila bite. The light woodiness complements the grilled pineapple’s smoky notes without overpowering the drink. If you enjoy pineapple margaritas or tequila-based cocktails, reposado tequila will give you a familiar but elevated experience.

4. Bourbon – A Rich & Caramelized Twist

For those who like whiskey-based cocktails, bourbon is an unexpected but fantastic choice. Bourbon has natural caramel, vanilla, and spice notes, which enhance the smoky, grilled pineapple flavor beautifully. The richness of bourbon makes this cocktail feel a little deeper and more complex, with a warm, slightly sweet finish. If you love whiskey sours or Old Fashioneds but want something more tropical, this is the perfect way to shake things up.

5. Vodka – A Clean & Versatile Option

If you prefer a lighter, more refreshing version of this cocktail, vodka is the way to go. Since vodka doesn’t have a strong flavor of its own, it lets the grilled pineapple and smoky elements shine without interference. This choice is perfect if you want a crisp, easy-drinking cocktail that still feels fancy but isn’t too heavy. If you enjoy classic pineapple vodka cocktails, this will be a fresh take on your usual drink.

Bonus: How to Make It Even Smokier

Regardless of which spirit you choose, you can always boost the smoky flavor with these tricks:
🔥 Smoked ice cubes – Freeze water infused with smoked wood chips.
🔥 Smoked glass – Invert the glass over a burning wood chip before pouring the drink.
🔥 Smoked salt rim – Add a pinch of smoked sea salt for an extra kick.

Which One Should You Choose?

  • Want it extra smoky? Go with mezcal.
  • Want it smooth and tropical? Try aged rum.
  • Love tequila-based drinks? Use reposado tequila.
  • Want a rich, caramelized twist? Choose bourbon.
  • Prefer a light and refreshing version? Stick with vodka.

No matter which you choose, the Smoked Pineapple Cocktail is a drink that can be adapted to your personal taste. Experiment with different spirits and see which version becomes your new favorite!

Close-up of a Smoked Pineapple Cocktail in a textured glass with a grilled pineapple wedge and mint garnish.

How to Smoke Your Pineapple for the Perfect Cocktail

The secret to making a Smoked Pineapple Cocktail truly unforgettable lies in how you smoke your pineapple. Smoking enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness while adding a deep, caramelized richness and a subtle smokiness that elevates the drink from good to absolutely mind-blowing. If you’ve never smoked fruit before, don’t worry—it’s easier than you think, and there are several methods to achieve that perfect balance of sweet and smoky. Here’s everything you need to know to get it just right.


1. Grilling the Pineapple (Best for Caramelization & Subtle Smokiness)

🔥 Why it works: Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sugars and adds a light char, creating a slightly smoky but well-balanced flavor.

How to do it:

  1. Slice the pineapple into rings or spears about ½-inch thick.
  2. Lightly brush with honey or brown sugar (optional) to enhance caramelization.
  3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  4. Place pineapple slices directly on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the fruit softens slightly.
  5. Remove and let them cool before blending or muddling into your cocktail.

🔥 Best for: A subtle smoky flavor with a rich caramelized sweetness.


2. Using a Smoking Gun (Best for Infusing Smoke Without Cooking)

🔥 Why it works: A smoking gun allows you to infuse the pineapple with smoke without cooking it, preserving its fresh, juicy texture while adding intense smokiness.

How to do it:

  1. Slice your fresh pineapple into chunks or rings.
  2. Place the pineapple in a sealed container or bowl with a lid.
  3. Load your smoking gun with wood chips (hickory, applewood, or mesquite work great).
  4. Insert the smoking tube into the container, fill it with smoke, and seal it.
  5. Let the smoke infuse the pineapple for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Remove the pineapple and use it immediately in your cocktail.

🔥 Best for: A fresh, juicy pineapple flavor with a noticeable smoky aroma.


3. Smoking Pineapple on a Charcoal or Wood-Fired Grill (Best for Deep, Authentic Smokiness)

🔥 Why it works: Using a charcoal or wood-fired grill gives the pineapple a deep, natural smoky flavor without any fancy equipment.

How to do it:

  1. Light a charcoal or wood-burning grill and let it develop hot embers.
  2. Place wood chips or chunks (hickory, mesquite, or applewood) directly on the hot coals.
  3. Place whole or sliced pineapple on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat).
  4. Close the grill lid and let the pineapple slow-smoke for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Once it’s softened and lightly browned, remove it and let it cool before using.

🔥 Best for: A deeper, more authentic smoky flavor—perfect if you love bold, BBQ-style smokiness in your cocktails.


4. Torching the Pineapple (Best for Quick Caramelization & Light Smokiness)

🔥 Why it works: This method quickly chars the outside of the pineapple without fully cooking it, adding a slightly smoky, burnt sugar effect.

How to do it:

  1. Slice the pineapple into rings or spears.
  2. Place it on a heatproof surface.
  3. Use a culinary torch to char the surface, moving in circular motions until lightly blackened.
  4. Let it cool before adding it to your cocktail.

🔥 Best for: A fast, lightly charred effect that adds a touch of smokiness without a grill.


5. Making Smoked Pineapple Syrup (Best for Long-Lasting Smoky Flavor in Cocktails)

🔥 Why it works: Instead of smoking the fruit itself, this method infuses a homemade pineapple syrup with smoky elements, so you can use it anytime without extra prep.

How to do it:

  1. Combine 1 cup of pineapple juice, ½ cup of sugar, and ½ cup of water in a saucepan.
  2. Simmer over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Pour the syrup into a heatproof container.
  4. Use a smoking gun or a piece of burning wood to infuse smoke into the container, then seal it immediately.
  5. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then strain into a bottle for storage.

🔥 Best for: A convenient, smoky pineapple flavor that can be used in multiple cocktails without extra effort.


Best Wood Chips for Smoking Pineapple

The type of wood you use affects the final flavor of your cocktail. Here are the best choices:

🌲 Applewood – Mild and slightly sweet, enhances pineapple’s natural flavors.
🌳 Hickory – Strong and bold, adds a deep, almost bacon-like smokiness.
🔥 Mesquite – Intense and earthy, best for those who love a big, bold smoky flavor.
🌰 Cherrywood – A softer, fruitier smoke that blends well with pineapple’s sweetness.


Which Smoking Method Should You Use?

✔️ Want a quick, easy option? Torch it for a lightly charred effect.
✔️ Love BBQ-style smokiness? Smoke it on a charcoal grill for a deep, rich flavor.
✔️ Prefer a fresher pineapple taste? Use a smoking gun to infuse without cooking.
✔️ Need a make-ahead option? Make smoked pineapple syrup for easy mixing.

No matter which method you choose, smoking your pineapple takes this cocktail from good to extraordinary. It’s the key ingredient that makes the drink stand out, giving it that bold, smoky-sweet complexity you won’t find in a regular pineapple cocktail.

Now that you know how to smoke pineapple like a pro, you’re ready to create a Smoked Pineapple Cocktail that’s guaranteed to impress. 🍍🔥🍹 Cheers!

Overhead shot of a Smoked Pineapple Cocktail surrounded by grilled pineapple wedges on a round plate.

Perfect Garnishes & Presentation Tips for a Stunning Smoked Pineapple Cocktail

A great cocktail isn’t just about taste—it’s also about presentation. The right garnish and glassware can take your Smoked Pineapple Cocktail from a simple drink to an Instagram-worthy masterpiece. Since this cocktail has a bold, smoky, and tropical flavor profile, you’ll want garnishes that enhance both the visual appeal and the taste. Here’s how to make your drink look as amazing as it tastes.


1. The Classic Grilled Pineapple Wedge (A Must-Have!)

🔥 Why it works: A lightly charred pineapple wedge not only looks stunning but also reinforces the smoky, caramelized pineapple flavor in the drink.

How to do it:

  1. Slice a wedge or ring of fresh pineapple (about ½ inch thick).
  2. Lightly brush it with honey or brown sugar for extra caramelization.
  3. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until you see beautiful grill marks.
  4. Let it cool slightly, then place it on the rim of your glass.

🍍 Pro Tip: If you want to add a dramatic smoky effect, briefly torch the pineapple wedge right before serving to make it sizzle!


2. Fresh Mint Sprig (For a Pop of Color & Freshness)

🌿 Why it works: Mint adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky notes and makes the drink look incredibly vibrant.

How to do it:

  • Take a small sprig of fresh mint and clap it between your hands before adding it to the drink—this helps release its aroma.
  • Place it next to the pineapple garnish or let it float on top of the ice.

🍍 Pro Tip: For extra flair, you can use a smoked rosemary sprig instead of mint for an herbal, earthy aroma that complements the drink’s smoky depth.


3. Smoked Cinnamon Stick (For a Dramatic, Aromatic Touch)

🔥 Why it works: A torched cinnamon stick gives off a subtle smoky spice that enhances the overall experience of the cocktail.

How to do it:

  1. Take a whole cinnamon stick and lightly char one end with a kitchen torch.
  2. Drop it into the cocktail or let it rest on the rim.
  3. As the cinnamon burns slightly, it releases a warm, smoky aroma that pairs beautifully with the pineapple and grilled elements.

🍍 Pro Tip: If you really want to wow your guests, light the cinnamon stick on fire for a few seconds and blow it out just before serving—it’ll give off an incredible smoky scent.


4. Smoked Salt or Tajín Rim (For Extra Flavor & Aesthetic Appeal)

🧂 Why it works: A rimmed glass adds another layer of flavor to every sip, whether it’s a touch of saltiness or a bit of heat.

How to do it:

  1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass.
  2. Dip the rim into smoked sea salt, Tajín (chili-lime seasoning), or a mix of sugar and smoked paprika.
  3. Let it dry slightly before pouring in the cocktail.

🍍 Pro Tip: Smoked salt enhances the drink’s natural flavors, while Tajín adds a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple.


5. Dehydrated Pineapple Slice (For an Elegant Look)

🍍 Why it works: A thin, dried pineapple slice adds a sophisticated and exotic look to the drink while keeping the tropical theme intact.

How to do it:

  1. Slice a pineapple into thin rounds.
  2. Bake at 200°F (90°C) for 2-3 hours until it’s dried but still slightly flexible.
  3. Place it on top of the cocktail as a floating garnish or rest it on the rim.

🍍 Pro Tip: Dehydrated pineapple slices store well, so you can make a batch and use them for future cocktails!


6. Smoked Ice Cubes (For a Slow-Release Smoky Effect)

🧊 Why it works: Instead of infusing smoke directly into the drink, smoked ice cubes slowly release their flavor as they melt.

How to do it:

  1. Fill an ice cube tray with filtered water.
  2. Place the tray in a container and use a smoking gun to fill the container with smoke.
  3. Seal it and let the ice cubes absorb the smoke for about 10 minutes before freezing.

🍍 Pro Tip: Use large ice cubes instead of regular ones—they melt slower, keeping your drink cold without watering it down.


7. Torched Lime Wheel (For a Smoky Citrus Kick)

🔥 Why it works: Charring a lime wheel adds a hint of burnt citrus aroma and looks dramatic.

How to do it:

  1. Cut a thin slice of lime.
  2. Use a kitchen torch or grill to lightly char the edges.
  3. Rest it on the rim or float it on top of the cocktail.

🍍 Pro Tip: This technique works great if you’re using tequila or mezcal as your base spirit, enhancing the smoky citrus notes.


Final Presentation Tips for the Best Look

✔️ Use the Right Glass: Serve your Smoked Pineapple Cocktail in a lowball or rocks glass for a classic look or a tall highball glass for a more elegant feel.

✔️ Layer the Ingredients: Pour the pineapple juice first, then add the smoked spirit gently for a beautiful layered effect before stirring.

✔️ Serve with a Cocktail Pick: If you’re using multiple garnishes, thread them onto a cocktail pick for a neat, sophisticated presentation.

✔️ Add Smoke at the End: For a final wow factor, use a smoking gun or burning wood chip to add a swirl of smoke right before serving.


Garnish Like a Pro & Elevate Your Cocktail Game

The Smoked Pineapple Cocktail is already a showstopper, but with the right garnishes and presentation, it becomes a work of art. Whether you go for a grilled pineapple wedge, smoked cinnamon, or a torched lime wheel, each element enhances the drink’s flavor, aroma, and appearance.

Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite style—and don’t forget to snap a photo before sipping because this cocktail deserves a place on your Instagram feed!

Smoked Pineapple Cocktail on a bar counter with a grilled pineapple garnish and mint.

Best Food Pairings for This Smoked Pineapple Cocktail

A cocktail as bold and flavorful as the Smoked Pineapple Cocktail deserves food that can match its intensity. Since this drink combines sweet, smoky, and citrusy notes, the best pairings will either complement its flavors or contrast them in a way that enhances the drinking experience. Whether you’re sipping this cocktail at a backyard BBQ, a tropical-themed dinner, or a cozy night in, these perfect food pairings will take your cocktail experience to the next level.


1. Grilled Meats & BBQ (Because Smoke Loves Smoke) 🍖🔥

There’s a reason why smoky cocktails and grilled meats go hand in hand—the charred flavors from the grill enhance the smokiness in the drink, while the sweetness of the pineapple provides a refreshing contrast.

Best Pairings:

  • BBQ Ribs – The deep, smoky, caramelized glaze on ribs plays beautifully with the cocktail’s grilled pineapple notes.
  • Smoked Brisket – A slow-smoked, tender brisket with a rich, peppery crust is the perfect match for this bold drink.
  • Grilled Chicken with Citrus Marinade – The zesty citrus flavors cut through the smokiness, creating a refreshing balance.
  • Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa – The natural sweetness of pork works well with pineapple, and the added smoke ties everything together.

🍍 Pro Tip: Serve this cocktail at your next BBQ and watch it steal the spotlight from the beer cooler!


2. Spicy Mexican Dishes (Sweet Meets Heat) 🌶️🌮

Pineapple and spice are a match made in heaven. The cocktail’s natural sweetness cools down the heat, while the smoky notes complement the roasted, charred flavors in Mexican cuisine.

Best Pairings:

  • Tacos al Pastor – Pineapple-marinated pork tacos with fresh cilantro and onions are a perfect match for this drink.
  • Spicy Shrimp or Fish Tacos – The citrusy, smoky flavors in the cocktail balance out the heat from the tacos.
  • Chili-Lime Grilled Corn (Elote) – The creamy, spicy, tangy flavors of elote contrast beautifully with the drink’s tropical notes.
  • Chiles Rellenos – A smoky roasted pepper stuffed with cheese and meat pairs amazingly well with the pineapple’s sweetness.

🔥 Pro Tip: Add a Tajín rim to your glass for an extra Mexican-inspired kick!


3. Tropical & Asian-Inspired Dishes (Bright, Fresh & Flavorful) 🍍🥢

Since pineapple is a common ingredient in tropical and Asian cuisine, this cocktail fits right in with these dishes. The balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors enhances the drink’s depth.

Best Pairings:

  • Hawaiian Poke Bowls – Fresh tuna or salmon with soy sauce, sesame, and pineapple chunks make for an ultra-refreshing pairing.
  • Sweet & Sour Chicken – The tangy, slightly sweet sauce echoes the cocktail’s citrus-pineapple flavors.
  • Thai Grilled Chicken with Peanut Sauce – The rich peanut sauce contrasts the bright, smoky pineapple drink.
  • Pineapple Fried Rice – This dish already features grilled pineapple, making it a natural pairing.

🍍 Pro Tip: If you’re serving this cocktail with Asian dishes, try adding a dash of ginger syrup to the drink for an extra kick!


4. Seafood & Shellfish (Fresh, Light & Citrusy) 🦐🐟

Seafood and citrus-based drinks are always a winning combination. The sweet smokiness of the Smoked Pineapple Cocktail pairs beautifully with grilled fish and shellfish, bringing out the briny, fresh flavors of the ocean.

Best Pairings:

  • Grilled Shrimp Skewers – The charred seafood enhances the smoky pineapple notes in the cocktail.
  • Seared Scallops with Brown Butter – The richness of scallops gets balanced by the citrusy brightness of the drink.
  • Coconut Crusted Mahi-Mahi – The sweetness of coconut and pineapple together is a tropical dream.
  • Ceviche – The acidity from the lime and freshness of the seafood make this a refreshing, light pairing.

🍍 Pro Tip: Garnish the cocktail with a grilled citrus slice (like lime or orange) when serving it with seafood!


5. Cheese & Charcuterie (The Unexpected But Perfect Pairing) 🧀🍇

If you want to elevate your cocktail night, try pairing the Smoked Pineapple Cocktail with a cheese and charcuterie board. The mix of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors creates an incredibly sophisticated pairing.

Best Pairings:

  • Aged Cheddar – Sharp and nutty, cheddar balances the cocktail’s tropical sweetness.
  • Smoked Gouda – The smoky notes in the cheese amplify the drink’s depth.
  • Goat Cheese with Honey – The tanginess of goat cheese works beautifully with pineapple’s natural acidity.
  • Prosciutto & Salami – Salty, cured meats provide a contrast to the sweet-smoky cocktail.

🍍 Pro Tip: Serve the cocktail in short glasses over large ice cubes for a more sophisticated experience with a charcuterie board!


6. Desserts That Bring Out the Best in This Cocktail 🍰🍨

Yes, cocktails and desserts can be a thing! Since this drink has a naturally sweet and smoky profile, pairing it with tropical, caramelized, or spiced desserts makes for a perfect ending to any meal.

Best Pairings:

  • Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon & Honey – This enhances the cocktail’s pineapple-forward flavors.
  • Coconut Cream Pie – The rich, creamy coconut balances the drink’s acidity.
  • Churros with Spiced Chocolate Sauce – The smokiness of the cocktail complements the deep, spiced chocolate.
  • Mango Sorbet or Pineapple Ice Cream – A light, fruity dessert keeps the tropical theme going!

🍍 Pro Tip: Try adding a tiny scoop of pineapple sorbet directly into the cocktail for a frozen twist!

A coupe glass filled with a Smoked Pineapple Cocktail on a bar counter with condensation on the glass.
A refreshing pineapple cocktail in a clear glass filled with ice cubes, garnished with a large triangular slice of pineapple on the rim. The glass rests on a wooden coaster, and a textured pineapple decor piece is subtly visible in the background, set against a sleek grey countertop that contrasts with the vibrant yellow of the drink.

Smoked Pineapple Cocktail

Max Dennison
The Smoked Pineapple Cocktail is the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and refreshing flavors, making it a standout drink for any occasion. Fresh pineapple is grilled or smoked to bring out its natural caramelized sweetness, then mixed with citrus, a smoky spirit like mezcal or aged rum, and a hint of spice for depth. The result? A tropical yet sophisticated cocktail that feels just as at home at a backyard BBQ as it does at an elegant cocktail party. Whether you love bold flavors or just want to shake up your usual drink routine, this cocktail is guaranteed to impress.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Beverage, Cocktail, Drinks
Cuisine Tropical & Latin American cuisine
Servings 1
Calories 213 kcal

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker: To mix and chill the ingredients properly.
  • Jigger or measuring tool: For precise measurements of alcohol, juice, and syrup.
  • Strainer: To remove pulp and ice when pouring the drink.
  • Citrus juicer: For fresh lime juice (a handheld citrus press works best).
  • Knife & cutting board: To slice and prep the pineapple garnish.
  • Glassware: A rocks glass (short glass) or a highball glass works best.
  • Grill or grill pan: To caramelize and add a light smoky flavor to the pineapple.
  • Smoking gun: For infusing the cocktail with a deeper, aromatic smokiness.
  • Culinary torch: To quickly char the pineapple slices for a light smoky effect.
  • Wood chips (hickory, applewood, or mesquite): If using a smoker or smoking gun.

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 Fresh pineapple, peeled and cored
  • 1 Cup (240ml) Of your favorite rum
  • 1/4 Cup (60ml) Lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 Tbsp (30ml) Maple syrup
  • A dash of smoked paprika
  • Ice cubes
  • Mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Pineapple: Begin by slicing your pineapple into thick rings. If you have a grill, this is where the magic happens. Grill the pineapple slices over medium heat until they are beautifully charred. No grill? No problem! A well-heated cast-iron skillet will do the trick just fine.
  • Blend It Up: Once your pineapple has cooled slightly, chop it into smaller pieces and toss it into a blender. Add the rum, lime juice, maple syrup, and that dash of smoked paprika. Blend until smooth.
  • Strain for Smoothness: Using a fine mesh sieve, strain the mixture into a pitcher. We want our cocktail to be as smooth as silk.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Fill your glasses with ice, pour the cocktail over, and garnish with a mint leaf or a small grilled pineapple wedge. Raise your glass and take a moment to savor the smoky-sweet symphony.

Notes

If you’re planning to serve this Smoked Pineapple Cocktail at a party or just want to save time, you can easily prep ingredients ahead of time without losing flavor. Here’s how to make ahead and store each component for maximum freshness.

Make-Ahead Tips:

Grilled or Smoked Pineapple: Grill or smoke the pineapple up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use.
Smoked Pineapple Syrup: If using a homemade smoked pineapple syrup, make it up to 1 week ahead and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge.
Pre-mix the Cocktail Base: Mix the pineapple juice, lime juice, and sweetener ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Add alcohol and shake just before serving.
Smoke the Glass in Advance: If using a smoked glass effect, you can prep glasses ahead of time by smoking them and covering them with a coaster or lid to trap the aroma.

Storage Tips:

🥶 Leftover Cocktail Mix: Store any unused, non-alcoholic mix in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
🧊 Smoked Ice Cubes: Make smoked ice cubes ahead of time and keep them in the freezer for weeks for easy use.
🍍 Leftover Grilled Pineapple: Store extra grilled pineapple in the fridge for 2 days or freeze for longer storage (great for smoothies later!).
By prepping in advance, you’ll cut down on last-minute work and serve up bar-quality cocktails with ease. Cheers!
Keyword BBQ-Inspired Cocktail, Best Pineapple Cocktail Recipe, Easy Pineapple Cocktail, Grilled Pineapple Drinks, Pineapple Rum Cocktail, Smoked Mezcal Cocktail, Smoked Pineapple Cocktail Recipe, Smoky Pineapple Cocktail Recipe, Summer Cocktail with Pineapple, Tropical Cocktail with Pineapple
A classic Smoked Pineapple Cocktail with ice cubes and fresh mint on a bar counter.

A Toast to Bold Flavors & Unforgettable Moments

There’s something special about a cocktail that’s more than just a drink—it’s an experience. The Smoked Pineapple Cocktail isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about balancing flavors, embracing creativity, and elevating the moment. Whether you’re grilling up a feast with friends, unwinding after a long day, or simply indulging in a drink that feels like a mini vacation, this cocktail brings tropical warmth with a bold, smoky twist.

From choosing the right spirit to smoking the pineapple just right, to pairing it with incredible food, every step of making this cocktail is a chance to slow down, savor, and enjoy. The combination of sweet, smoky, citrusy, and refreshing flavors makes it perfect for any occasion—whether you’re throwing a backyard BBQ, hosting a dinner party, or just treating yourself to something extraordinary.

So, the next time you take a sip of this golden, smoky masterpiece, take a moment to enjoy it fully. Feel the warmth of the pineapple, the whisper of smoke, and the refreshing citrus kick. And if you love it as much as we do, don’t forget to share the recipe, snap a photo, and spread the love. Because great cocktails aren’t just meant to be enjoyed—they’re meant to be shared, celebrated, and remembered. Cheers!

Join Now!

Love this recipe? Don’t miss out on even more delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make recipes like this Smoked Pineapple Cocktail! By joining our email community, you’ll gain access to exclusive content, bonus recipes, and tips to make clean eating a breeze.

Enter your email & click below to subscribe and start receiving tasty inspiration right away. It only takes a minute to join our growing community of food lovers dedicated to making healthy eating delicious and fun.

Subscribe to our newsletter today to receive our exclusive printable weekly meal planner and recipe cards absolutely FREE.
Thank you for subscribing!
Close
Your custom text © Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.
Close