Paul Kushner
The Malibu Sunset is a tropical favorite known for its vibrant layered look and smooth, fruity flavor. A blend of Malibu coconut rum, pineapple, and orange juices creates a beachy base, while a slow pour of grenadine adds sweetness and a stunning visual gradient just like a summer sunset in a glass. Garnished with maraschino cherries, it’s perfect for warm evenings, poolside lounging, or anytime you want a drink that tastes like vacation.
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Tasting Notes
The Malibu Sunset offers a sweet and refreshing blend of tropical fruit flavors with a light coconut base. Malibu coconut rum brings smooth sweetness, while pineapple and orange juices add bright, fruity notes that mix easily without being overpowering. The grenadine settles at the bottom, offering a touch of cherry flavor as it slowly blends into the drink. Served over ice, the texture is crisp and cool, perfect for casual sipping. The layered appearance makes it as visually appealing as it is tasty, with flavors that shift slightly as the grenadine merges into each sip.
Equipment and Glassware
Preparing a Malibu Sunset requires only a few basic tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for blending the juices and rum evenly. A jigger or measuring tool helps keep ingredient ratios balanced, and a bar spoon is useful for adding grenadine slowly to achieve the layered effect. Use a fine mesh strainer if you want a cleaner pour without pulp. For serving, a highball glass or any tall clear glass is ideal, allowing the drink’s gradient colors to show. Ice cubes help chill the drink and maintain its structure. A cocktail pick can be used for the cherry garnish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Malibu coconut rum
- 4 oz pineapple juice
- 2 oz orange juice
- 1 oz grenadine
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add Malibu coconut rum, pineapple juice, and orange juice to the shaker.
- Shake the ingredients until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice cubes.
- Slowly pour grenadine over the top of the drink. The grenadine will sink to the bottom of the glass, creating the sunset effect.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries.
Pro Tips
- Shake with cold, fresh ice for best results
- Use fresh-squeezed orange juice if available
- Pour grenadine slowly for a more distinct color separation
- Chill the glass ahead of time to help preserve layering
- Avoid over-shaking to prevent foam from forming
- Swap maraschino for fresh cherries if preferred
- Taste before serving adjust with more juice if needed
- For extra color contrast, pour grenadine along the side of the glass
- Avoid crushed ice, which can dilute the drink too quickly
- Garnish just before serving to keep it visually clean
When to Serve
The Malibu Sunset is an ideal drink for summer afternoons, poolside lounging, or beach-themed events. Its fruity taste and layered presentation make it a natural choice for casual get-togethers, brunches, or outdoor dinners. It’s also a fun option for parties, birthdays, or holiday gatherings where you want something that looks festive and tastes approachable. Because of its bright flavors and moderate alcohol content, it works well as an early evening drink or welcome cocktail. It’s best served cold and enjoyed when you’re in the mood for something light, colorful, and easy to sip.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Malibu
- Captain Morgan Coconut
- Parrot Bay Coconut Rum
- Don Q Coco
- Bacardi Coconut
- Blue Chair Bay Coconut
- Kōloa Kaua’i Coconut Rum
- Cruzan Coconut Rum
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz Malibu coconut rum
- 4 oz pineapple juice
- 2 oz orange juice
- 1 oz grenadine
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add Malibu coconut rum, pineapple juice, and orange juice to the shaker.
- Shake the ingredients until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice cubes.
- Slowly pour grenadine over the top of the drink. The grenadine will sink to the bottom of the glass, creating the sunset effect.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Pour the grenadine slowly for the best gradient it sinks and creates the layered “sunset” look.
- Use fresh orange and pineapple juice for a brighter flavor.
- For extra flair, add a pineapple wedge or orange slice to the garnish.
