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. With a hint of mint and a touch of honey or simple syrup, this drink is smooth, balanced, and perfect for warm evenings, backyard gatherings, or anytime you want a cocktail with a little Southern charm and island flair.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Balanced: Sweet, smoky, tangy, and refreshing all in one sip.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and no special bartending skills required.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on the rocks, as a frozen cocktail, or topped with club soda.
- Great for Bourbon Lovers: The pineapple enhances bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, strength, and garnish to your preference.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bourbon
- Fresh pineapple chunks
- Lemon juice
- Honey or simple syrup
- Mint leaves
- Ice
- Club soda (optional, for a lighter drink)
- Pineapple wedge and mint sprig (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Muddle the Pineapple and Mint
- In a shaker or sturdy glass:
- Add fresh pineapple chunks, mint leaves, lemon juice, and honey (or simple syrup).
- Muddle well to release the juices and flavors.
Step 2: Add Bourbon and Ice
- Pour in the bourbon.
- Add ice and shake well for about 10-15 seconds to chill and mix.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Optional: Top with club soda for a lighter, fizzy drink.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge and mint sprig.
Step 4: Enjoy!
- Serve immediately and sip slowly to enjoy the rich, tropical flavors.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1 cocktail
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeño while muddling for a spicy twist.
- Smoky Flavor: Use a smoky bourbon or add a dash of smoked bitters.
- Frozen Version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy-style cocktail.
- Tropical Upgrade: Add a splash of coconut water or mango juice.
- Non-Alcoholic: Swap bourbon for ginger ale or sparkling water.
Storage/Reheating
- Make-Ahead: Mix all ingredients (except ice and club soda) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Shake before serving.
- Leftovers: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the mixed drink in the fridge for a few hours.
- No Reheating Needed: Just shake, pour, and serve!
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh pineapple gives the best flavor. If using canned, choose unsweetened.
What type of bourbon is best?
A smooth bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes, like Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve, works well.
Can I make this in a large batch?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients and serve in a pitcher for easy entertaining.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?
Yes! Lime juice adds a slightly tangier taste.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce or omit the honey/simple syrup and let the pineapple’s natural sweetness shine.
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 whiskey instead of bourbon?
Yes! Rye whiskey will add a spicier kick, while Scotch will bring smoky notes.
What’s a good food pairing for this cocktail?
Try grilled meats, barbecue, tropical salads, or charcuterie boards.
Can I add bitters?
Yes! A few dashes of Angostura or orange bitters enhance the flavors.
Is this cocktail strong?
It has a good bourbon kick but is well-balanced by the fruit and citrus. Adjust to your taste!
Conclusion
The Bourbon Pineapple Smash is a tropical yet sophisticated cocktail that highlights the smooth warmth of bourbon with the bright, juicy flavors of pineapple and citrus. Whether you’re sipping it by the pool, at a barbecue, or winding down after a long day, this drink is a must-try for bourbon lovers and tropical cocktail fans alike. Cheers!
Print
Bourbon Pineapple Smash
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Category: Cocktails, Drinks
- Method: Muddling & Shaking
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
Description
A sweet, smoky, and citrusy cocktail, the Bourbon Pineapple Smash is the perfect mix of smooth bourbon, fresh pineapple, zesty lime, and mint. It’s a tropical twist on a classic whiskey smash, making it an ideal summer or year-round cocktail.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz pineapple juice (fresh is best!)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (or honey syrup for a richer taste)
- 3–4 fresh pineapple chunks
- 4–5 fresh mint leaves
- Ice (for shaking & serving)
- Club soda or ginger beer (optional, for topping)
- Pineapple slice & mint sprig (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Muddle the Flavors:
- In a cocktail shaker, add pineapple chunks, mint leaves, and lime juice.
- Muddle gently until the pineapple is crushed and releases its juice.
2. Add Bourbon & Shake:
- Add bourbon, pineapple juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
3. Strain & Serve:
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- If you like a fizzy finish, top with club soda or ginger beer.
4. Garnish & Enjoy:
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and a fresh mint sprig.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a smokier flavor, try using a smoked bourbon or grilling the pineapple before muddling.
- Want it sweeter? Increase the simple syrup to 3/4 oz or use maple syrup for added depth.
- Make it a frozen cocktail! Blend all ingredients with ice for a bourbon pineapple slushie.