Paul Kushner
The Amaretto Island Punch is a luscious, tropical escape layered with creamy, fruity indulgence. Sweet, nutty amaretto and coconut rum set a rich, exotic tone, while a vibrant mix of pineapple, orange, and lime juices infuses the drink with a refreshing, citrusy burst. Cream of coconut and coconut milk are blended separately to create a silky, decadent topper that floats elegantly over the fruity base. Gently layered and beautifully garnished with a melon ball and a wedge of melon or pineapple, this cocktail is perfect for beach parties, summer gatherings, or anytime you want to activate serious island vibes in a glass.
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Tasting Notes
The Amaretto Island Punch is a decadent, tropical-inspired cocktail that fuses sweet nutty flavors with creamy coconut and bright tropical fruit. Amaretto’s rich almond sweetness pairs beautifully with coconut rum’s tropical warmth. Pineapple and orange juices add a lively burst of fruitiness, while lime juice cuts through with a zesty brightness. A luxurious blend of cream of coconut and coconut milk creates a silky, cloud-like float atop the drink, making it both visually stunning and indulgently smooth. Garnished with melon balls and fruit wedges, this cocktail brings the easygoing spirit of an island paradise to every sip.
Equipment and Glassware
To create this island punch, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to chill and mix the base ingredients. A jigger ensures precise measurements to maintain balance between sweet, tart, and creamy notes. A bar spoon is key for layering the creamy float gently over the drink. Use a fine mesh strainer for a cleaner pour if desired. Serve in a tall tiki glass, hurricane glass, or a large highball glass to show off the layers and vibrant tropical garnishes. A melon baller and sharp knife are perfect for crafting picture-perfect melon or pineapple garnishes.
Ingredients
- 1 oz amaretto
- 1 oz coconut rum
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 1 oz cream of coconut
- 0.5 oz coconut milk
- Melon or pineapple wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- Shake the Base: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add amaretto, coconut rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and lime juice. Shake vigorously until chilled.
- Strain: Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Float the Creamy Layer: In a separate container, blend cream of coconut and coconut milk together. Slowly pour the mixture over the back of a spoon onto the drink to float it on top.
- Garnish: Add a melon ball and a melon or pineapple wedge for a festive, tropical finish.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately for the ultimate island experience.
Pro Tips
- Use cream of coconut like Coco Lopez for a rich, sweet tropical flavor, and shake the can well before using.
- For the float, blend the cream of coconut and coconut milk until silky and smooth—this ensures a stable, creamy layer that floats beautifully.
- Chill the coconut mixture slightly for easier layering.
- Shake the base ingredients vigorously to fully integrate the juices and spirits.
- Always use fresh lime juice for the brightest citrus pop.
- For an extra tropical flair, sprinkle a bit of toasted coconut or nutmeg on top of the creamy float.
When to Serve
The Amaretto Island Punch is perfect for summer pool parties, tropical-themed gatherings, luau nights, and backyard barbecues. It’s also a fantastic choice for brunches, beach weddings, and festive get-togethers where you want a drink that’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Its creamy top and fruity base offer the ultimate island experience, making it a standout for special occasions or casual afternoons when you simply want to escape to paradise with a cocktail in hand.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Use a classic amaretto like Disaronno for rich, authentic almond sweetness.
- For coconut rum, reach for Malibu, Cruzan Coconut Rum, or Parrot Bay.
- Choose high-quality pineapple and orange juices—freshly squeezed or cold-pressed if possible—for the brightest tropical flavor.
- For the cream of coconut, brands like Coco Lopez or Real Gourmet Cream of Coconut ensure a smooth, luxurious texture.
- Fresh melon or pineapple from local markets will create the most vibrant and juicy garnishes to complete the tropical look and feel.
Similar Cocktails
- Pineapple Coconut Mojito
- Blue Coconut Margarita
- Cottontail Margarita
- Neptune’s Nectar
- Blue Hurricane
Ingredients
- 1 oz amaretto
- 1 oz coconut rum
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 1 oz cream of coconut
- 0.5 oz coconut milk
- Melon or pineapple wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Shake the Base: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add amaretto, coconut rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and lime juice. Shake vigorously until chilled.
- Strain: Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Float the Creamy Layer: In a separate container, blend cream of coconut and coconut milk together. Slowly pour the mixture over the back of a spoon onto the drink to float it on top.
- Garnish: Add a melon ball and a melon or pineapple wedge for a festive, tropical finish.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately for the ultimate island experience.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest, richest float.
- For an extra visual effect, chill the creamy layer so it floats more distinctly.
- Add a tiny sprinkle of nutmeg on top for a lightly spiced tropical twist.
