The Jamaican Purple Rain Cocktail is a must-have for any beach party or backyard gathering. A colorful fusion of tropical juices and sweet coconut rum, it dazzles both in looks and taste. The layered pour technique adds visual flair, while the flavors keep things fruity and refreshing with a punch of citrus and a smooth rum base. It’s easy to make, fun to serve, and sure to be a conversation starter.
Ingredients
- 1 oz coconut rum (like Malibu)
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- ½ oz grenadine
- Ice
- Lime wedge or cherry for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Fill a shaker with ice. Add coconut rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice.
Step 2: Shake well for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
Step 3: Fill a highball or hurricane glass with ice.
Step 4: Slowly strain the cocktail mixture into the glass.
Step 5: Slowly pour grenadine into the glass; it will settle to the bottom, creating a purple gradient effect.
Step 6: Garnish with a lime wedge or cherry.
Step 7: Serve with a straw and stir just before drinking to combine flavors.
Variation
- Frozen Version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy twist.
- Extra Boozy: Add 1 oz vodka for a stronger kick.
- Mocktail: Use coconut water, blue sports drink, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice.
COOKING Note
- For best color layering, chill all ingredients ahead of time.
- Use clear glassware to show off the gradient.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a hurricane glass with a cocktail umbrella.
- Pair with grilled pineapple skewers or coconut shrimp.
- Great for tropical brunches or pool parties.
Tips
- Pour grenadine slowly over the back of a spoon for better layering.
- Use fresh pineapple juice for brighter flavor.
- Rim glass with sugar for extra flair.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 5mg
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare a batch in advance?
A: Yes! Mix the liquid ingredients in a pitcher and pour over ice and grenadine when serving.
Q: What gives it the purple color?
A: The mix of blue curaçao and red grenadine creates a beautiful purple hue.
Q: Can I use light rum instead of coconut rum?
A: Yes, but you’ll miss that signature tropical coconut note.
Conclusion
Jamaican Purple Rain is more than just a drink—it’s a tropical experience in a glass. With its bold colors, layered flavors, and effortless charm, it’s the perfect addition to your cocktail lineup. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or dancing under the stars, this cocktail is sure to bring the island spirit to your party.
Jamaican Purple Rain Cocktail
- Total Time: 5 min
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 oz coconut rum (like Malibu)
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- ½ oz grenadine
- Ice
- Lime wedge or cherry for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Fill a shaker with ice. Add coconut rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and cranberry juice.
Step 2: Shake well for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
Step 3: Fill a highball or hurricane glass with ice.
Step 4: Slowly strain the cocktail mixture into the glass.
Step 5: Slowly pour grenadine into the glass; it will settle to the bottom, creating a purple gradient effect.
Step 6: Garnish with a lime wedge or cherry.
Step 7: Serve with a straw and stir just before drinking to combine flavors.
Notes
- For best color layering, chill all ingredients ahead of time.
- Use clear glassware to show off the gradient.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 0g