Smoked Pineapple Cocktail
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.
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.
✅ 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.
🧊 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!
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!