Name: Pineapple Upside Down Cake Martini
Prep time: 4 min
Ingredients: 2 oz vanilla vodka; 1 oz triple sec; 0.25 oz lime juice; 3 oz pineapple juice; 0.5 oz grenadine syrup; Maraschino cherry and pineapple wedge (optional, for garnish)

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The Pineapple Upside Down Cake Martini is a sweet and smooth dessert cocktail that brings the classic cake flavor into a glass. It’s made with vanilla vodka, pineapple juice, and a splash of grenadine to mimic that rich, fruity taste. The pineapple gives it a bright, tropical feel, while the vanilla adds a soft, cake-like finish. A cherry at the bottom adds the final touch just like the real dessert. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, perfect for parties or when you want something fun and a little nostalgic without actually baking a cake.

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Tasting Notes

The Pineapple Upside Down Cake Martini is a rich, fruity cocktail that channels the classic dessert in liquid form. Vanilla vodka provides a creamy, cake-like base, while pineapple juice brings bright, tropical sweetness. A splash of lime juice adds zesty balance, and triple sec deepens the citrus profile. Grenadine syrup, when added last, creates a beautiful red layer at the bottom—mimicking the cherry topping of its namesake dessert. This martini is luscious, smooth, and visually striking, with a flavor that’s both playful and indulgent. It’s the perfect after-dinner treat or celebration cocktail.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare this cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for chilling and blending the juices and spirits. Use a jigger for accurate measurements and a strainer to ensure a smooth pour. Serve in a chilled martini glass or coupe glass for an elegant presentation. For the grenadine layer, a bar spoon helps you pour slowly down the side of the glass to create that upside-down cake effect. A garnish pick is optional if you’d like to add a maraschino cherry or pineapple wedge for flair.

Ingredients

2 oz vanilla vodka
1 oz triple sec
0.25 oz lime juice
3 oz pineapple juice
0.5 oz grenadine syrup
Maraschino cherry and pineapple wedge (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Shake: In a shaker filled with ice, combine vanilla vodka, triple sec, lime juice, and pineapple juice. Shake vigorously until chilled.
Layer: Add grenadine to the bottom of a chilled martini glass.
Strain: Slowly strain the shaken mixture over the back of a spoon into the glass to create a gentle layered effect.
Garnish: Add a maraschino cherry and pineapple wedge if desired.

Pro Tips

Use chilled pineapple juice for maximum freshness and flavor.
To enhance the cake-like profile, opt for vanilla bean vodka or infuse your own with a vanilla pod.
For a bolder presentation, layer the grenadine carefully using a spoon.
Add a sugar rim or a caramel drizzle on the glass rim for extra decadence.
Garnish with a cherry dropped into the base to echo the classic dessert’s appearance. Always shake thoroughly for a smooth, frothy consistency.

When to Serve

Serve the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Martini at dessert hours, birthday celebrations, holiday dinners, or cocktail parties where a sweet signature drink will shine. It’s ideal as an after-dinner drink or for special occasions like brunches, bachelorette parties, or girls’ nights in. Its visual appeal and nostalgic flavors make it a crowd favorite that feels festive and indulgent.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Choose a quality vanilla vodka like Absolut Vanilia, Smirnoff Vanilla, or Stoli Vanil for a creamy, smooth foundation. For triple sec, go with Cointreau or Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao for depth and balance. Use fresh pineapple juice when possible, or high-quality bottled versions like Lakewood or Dole 100% Juice. For grenadine, opt for Liber & Co., Stirrings, or homemade for a natural, pomegranate-forward flavor.

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