Name: Pineapple Rum Swizzle
Prep time: 4 min
Ingredients: 2 oz spiced rum; 2 oz pineapple juice; 0.5 oz lime juice; 0.25 oz simple syrup; 5 fresh mint leaves; 3 dashes aromatic bitters (to top); Mint sprig and pineapple wedge (for garnish)

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The Pineapple Rum Swizzle is cool, tropical, and perfect for sunny days. It mixes smooth rum with fresh pineapple juice, a splash of citrus, and crushed ice for a drink that’s light, fruity, and easy to sip. Swizzled with a bar spoon until icy cold, it’s the kind of cocktail that keeps you refreshed without weighing you down. Whether you’re hanging out by the pool or just want a little taste of summer, this one hits the spot. It’s simple, bright, and brings a chill vibe to any moment. Serve it tall, cold, and with a slice of pineapple on top.

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Tasting Notes

The Pineapple Rum Swizzle is a lively Caribbean-inspired cocktail that harmonizes tropical sweetness with warm spice and herbal brightness. Spiced rum provides a robust foundation with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and clove, while pineapple juice adds juicy richness. Fresh lime juice introduces zesty acidity, and a hint of simple syrup balances the tartness. Mint leaves give a cooling, fragrant lift, and aromatic bitters float on top, adding complexity and a stunning visual. Light, refreshing, and deeply flavorful, this swizzle-style drink is perfect for sipping slowly under the sun or kicking off a spirited tropical evening.

Equipment and Glassware

Crafting a swizzle is simple but visually striking. You’ll need a muddler for releasing mint oils, a jigger for accurate measuring, and a bar spoon (or traditional swizzle stick) to mix ingredients and create layers of flavor. A shaker is optional if you prefer to pre-chill, though building in the glass is traditional. Serve in a Collins glass or tall tiki-style glass filled with crushed ice to showcase the color and chill factor. A dash bottle is helpful for applying the bitters evenly over the top.

Ingredients

2 oz spiced rum
2 oz pineapple juice
0.5 oz lime juice
0.25 oz simple syrup
5 fresh mint leaves
3 dashes aromatic bitters (to top)
Mint sprig and pineapple wedge, for garnish

Instructions

In a rocks glass or tiki glass, add mint leaves, lime juice, pineapple juice, simple syrup, and spiced rum.
Fill the glass with crushed ice. Insert a swizzle stick or bar spoon and rapidly spin between your palms to mix and chill the drink thoroughly.
Add more crushed ice to mound the drink, then dash aromatic bitters over the top.
Add a mint sprig or pineapple wedge for a festive finish.

Pro Tips

Use a high-quality spiced rum like Sailor Jerry, Chairman’s Reserve Spiced, or Kraken for bold flavor.
Gently muddle mint to avoid bitterness—just press lightly.
If you want extra depth, add a dash of falernum or ginger liqueur.
Always use crushed ice for proper swizzle technique—it chills quickly and dilutes evenly.
Float the bitters carefully over the top for a dramatic look and aromatic complexity.
Chill the glass beforehand to extend the frosty presentation.

When to Serve

Serve the Pineapple Rum Swizzle during summer parties, poolside lounging, tiki nights, or as a pre-dinner refresher. It’s ideal for beach barbecues, Caribbean-themed events, or any occasion that calls for something cooling, exotic, and fun. Its balanced flavors and approachable strength also make it perfect as a daytime cocktail or a brunch pick-me-up with flair.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For spiced rum, try Chairman’s Reserve Spiced, Plantation Original Dark with added spices, or The Kraken for bold, molasses-forward flavor. For pineapple juice, use cold-pressed or freshly juiced for natural sweetness. Stick with homemade simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water) and Angostura bitters for a reliable aromatic finish. Use fresh mint and juicy limes for the most vivid flavor and visual appeal.

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