Here’s a tropical tipple that’s perfect for the winter months, the Jack Frost cocktail.
When the name Jack Frost is mentioned, it probably means something different to each person who hears it. Some might think of the ancient myth, an offshoot of Old Man Winter that would bring about icy gales of freezing cold weather. Or some folks might be reminded of the classic cartoon from 1934 by Ub Iwerks, or the Rankin/Bass television special from 1979, both titled Jack Frost.
Others will smile at the memory of Martin Short playing the character in The Santa Clause films, while still scratching their heads at the bizarre Michael Keaton movie Jack Frost about an absent dad/blues musician who dies tragically and is reincarnated as a snowman. Seriously, that’s a weird movie. And of course, no teenager’s sleepover in the 1990s was complete without a raucous viewing of the straight-to-video horror masterpiece Jack Frost, featuring a murderous maniac that also gets brought back to life as a snowman, albeit a less musical one.
The older we get, though, our thoughts might also turn to a cocktail called the Jack Frost, which also happens to be tonight’s recipe. And unlike other cold-weather-inspired libations that are enjoyed during the blustery and snowy months of the year, this mélange is comprised of ingredients that would traditionally be in more summer-like elixirs, namely rum and coconut.
And it really doesn’t matter what time of the year you enjoy the Jack Frost. Everybody should be able to chill out whenever the mood strikes them.
What is the best rum to use in a Jack Frost Cocktail?
While you can always use a spiced or dark rum in this recipe, the best option for a balanced, crisp, delicious mixture is a white—or silver—rum, which is clear in color, unaged and features tropical notes of molasses and sugarcane, along with hints of banana and almonds. Bacardi, Don Q and Kōloa make some of my favorite silver rums, and each will mix up beautifully in the Jack Frost. The bitter citrus from the blue curaçao, along with the tangy pineapple juice, won’t overpower or disappear within the spirit, resulting in a refreshing, smooth and tart tipple.
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon light corn syrup for rimming
- 1/4 cup unsweetened flaked coconut for rimming
- 1 ounce light rum
- 1/2 ounce blue curaçao
- 1/2 ounce cream of coconut
- 1 ounce pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
Instructions
- Pour the corn syrup onto a small plate and spread the shredded coconut flakes on another small plate. Dip the rim of a rocks glass into the corn syrup, then press it into the coconut flakes to create a snowy rim.
- Add the light rum, curaçao, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, and ice to a blender. Blend on high until smooth.
- Pour the blended cocktail into your prepared glass and serve.
Nutrition
What glassware and garnish are used?
You’ll want a sturdy rocks or Old Fashioned glass to enjoy this snowy-looking cocktail. Once you’ve garnished the rim with coconut shavings, pour your blended concoction in and enjoy.
Can this cocktail be shaken?
Yes, just add the ingredients to a shaker along with some full ice cubes instead of crushed ice, and go to town until chilled. Pour over more chunks of frozen water and you’re all set.
Other seasonal cocktails worth trying
While there is a seemingly endless list of popular summertime beverages, the wintery season has its fair share of favorite libations as well. The Jack Frost is only one fine, chilly example, and if it piqued your interest in other drinks you can craft as the snow falls from the sky, check out some of these recipes below.
- Hot Rum Toddy – A warming and soothing sipper that also features some tropically-tinged rum.
- Hot Buttered Rum – Still in the mood for rum? Have this smooth and delicious treat.
- Mexican Mocha – Spice things up with this chocolatey and non-alcoholic drink.
- Boozy Hot Chocolate – Get hot with this spiked and strong cup of decadent bliss.
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