Get ready to feel those island vibes with the Painkiller Cocktail – it’s like a tropical vacation in a glass. This refreshing drink is a dreamy combination of dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut. I can almost smell the sun lotion!
Funny story – my girls and I discovered this gem during a spontaneous trip to the Caribbean last year. We left our worries at the airport and stumbled upon this cute lil’ beach bar. The bartender told us all about the Painkiller, and one sip later we were HOOKED! Every time I make it now, it takes me straight back to those sunsets and endless laughs!
While the Painkiller shares some similar ingredients with the Piña Colada and Rum Runner – like rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream – it uniquely adds a splash of orange juice, distinguishing it with a twist of citrus that really sets it apart and gives it its own sun-kissed identity.
So, go on… treat yourself to a sip of island heaven.
Why You Will Love This Cocktail Recipe
- It looks as good as it tastes – think freshly grated nutmeg and a pineapple wedge (or a cherry, if you’re feelin’ extra).
- Our senses of taste and smell are so evocative. While there’s snow and cold winds outside your window, one sip of this drink and you’ll be transported to that summer beach getaway.
- It’s the perfect cocktail for entertaining by the pool. You can cool off by taking a dip in the water and cool off with a Painkiller.
- As a fan of everything coconut, I make it my business to seek out recipes that feature it. This one balances that creaminess with the fruit juices for a wonderful taste and consistency.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger (to measure liquids)
- Cocktail strainer (if not built into the shaker)
- Highball glass or tiki mug (preferably chilled)
- Grater (for nutmeg garnish)
Ingredients
- 2 oz. dark rum
- 4 oz. pineapple juice
- 1 oz. orange juice
- 1 oz. cream of coconut
- ice cubes
- nutmeg for garnish
- pineapple wedge or cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 20 seconds to blend the ingredients and chill the cocktail.
- Fill a highball glass or tiki mug with fresh ice cubes. Strain the cocktail mixture from the shaker into the glass or mug.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of grated nutmeg on top. You can also add a pineapple wedge or cherry.
Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Skimp On Quality: Go for a delicious dark rum and fresh fruit juices that’ll really make your cocktail pop. Pro tip: Upgrade to freshly squeezed OJ instead of the pre-packaged variety for added taste.
- Shake It Up!: Give that cocktail a serious shake for 20 seconds so everything mixes perfectly and it gets super chilled. Taste and texture are everything here.
- Let’s Talk Style: A gorgeous garnish is essential for a Painkiller Cocktail that should be a work of art once fully dressed. Freshly grated nutmeg, a pineapple wedge, a cherry, or even both will take your drink from basic to beautiful. Wanna slice up that pineapple like a pro? A stainless steel corer and slicer is your go-to tool.
- Make It YOURS!: Experiment with the ratio of fruit juices, cream of coconut, and rum to find your perfect match. Whether you love it a bit sweeter or stronger, it’s all about what rocks your taste buds!
FAQs
A typical Painkiller Cocktail has 300 to 350 calories – fruit juices and cream of coconut contain a lot of calories. The good news? You have options. Go lighter using less cream of coconut or a lower-calorie juice option.
To make ahead, mix the dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut in a large pitcher or container, and give it a good stir – but leave out the ice for now otherwise your Painkiller will get watery. To store, keep your Painkiller in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh up to a day or two. Give the mix a quick stir before serving.
Skip the dark rum and add a bit more pineapple juice or coconut water to make a mocktail version.
Variations
The classic Painkiller Cocktail is great, but why not mix it up a bit? Here are some easy twists you will love:
- Healthier Low-Carb Painkiller: Swap out the cream of coconut for coconut milk or unsweetened coconut cream, and choose lower-sugar pineapple juice. You can always add a splash of coconut water or a little stevia for that sweet touch.
- Spiced Painkiller: Use spiced rum instead of dark rum, and add a cinnamon stick for an extra cute garnish.
- Tropical Fruits Extravaganza: Go all out by blending in some mango or passion fruit purée. This will be your tropical heaven!
- Frozen Painkiller: Adding crushed ice is perfect for hot summer days and fancy nights in.
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