Paul Kushner
The Tommy Bahama Key Lime Martini is a tropical twist on a classic dessert, served in a glass. This cocktail blends the tangy brightness of key lime with a smooth, creamy finish, offering a refreshing sip that’s both light and rich. It’s the kind of drink that brings to mind sunny beaches, warm breezes, and laid-back afternoons. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or kicking off a weekend gathering, this martini delivers a perfect balance of tart and sweet. Simple to make and easy to enjoy, it’s a go-to for anyone who loves key lime pie and cocktails.
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Tasting Notes
The Tommy Bahama Key Lime Martini is a decadent dessert cocktail that captures the creamy tang of Key lime pie in a perfectly chilled glass. Vodka offers a smooth base, while Key lime pie cream liqueur adds a rich, velvety sweetness. Licor 43 brings subtle vanilla and citrus warmth, and fresh lime juice sharpens the profile with a tart finish. Served in a graham cracker-rimmed martini glass and garnished with a lime wheel, this cocktail is creamy, tangy, and irresistibly indulgent—like sipping pie on a beachside veranda.
Equipment and Glassware
This Tommy Bahama Key Lime Martini cocktail requires a cocktail shaker to chill and blend the creamy liqueurs smoothly with the citrus components. A jigger ensures proper ratios, while a citrus juicer or reamer helps extract fresh lime juice. Use a plate to spread the crushed graham crackers and a martini glass to present the drink elegantly. A fine mesh strainer can be used for extra smoothness, especially if your shaker contains graham dust or citrus pulp. A garnish pick or cocktail skewer is optional for holding the lime wheel.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Vodka
- 2 oz Key lime pie cream liqueur
- 0.5 oz Licor 43
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- Lime wheel for garnish
- Finely crushed graham crackers for rimming
Instructions
- Spread the finely crushed graham crackers evenly on a plate.
- Wet the rim of a chilled martini glass with lime juice or water, then dip it into the crushed graham crackers, coating the rim.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, Key lime pie cream liqueur, Licor 43, and lime juice.
- Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Chill your glass in advance to keep the martini cool longer.
- Use fresh Key lime juice for authentic tanginess, and graham cracker crumbs mixed with a pinch of sugar for a sweeter rim.
- For added flair, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest or crushed graham crackers.
- Want a thicker texture? Use a creamier liqueur base or shake with a small spoon of vanilla yogurt.
- This cocktail can also be blended for a frozen pie experience.
When to Serve
This Tommy Bahama Key Lime Martini is a showstopper dessert drink perfect for after-dinner sipping, brunches, tropical-themed parties, or holiday celebrations. Its pie-inspired profile makes it great for summer soirées, Mother’s Day, or any occasion where you want something sweet, tangy, and indulgent. It’s also a fun, elevated option for those who enjoy creamy cocktails with a flavorful punch.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Choose a clean vodka like Grey Goose, Kettle One, or Reyka for a smooth foundation.
- For the Key lime pie liqueur, brands like KeKe Beach or Nooku Key Lime Cream work beautifully.
- Licor 43 is a must for its vanilla-citrus complexity—don’t substitute unless necessary.
- For graham crackers, go with classic Honey Maid, finely crushed, and use fresh limes or Key limes for the best juice.
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
- Fine strainer
- Plate
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Vodka
- 2 oz Key lime pie cream liqueur
- 0.5 oz Licor 43
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- Lime wheel for garnish
- Finely crushed graham crackers for rimming
Instructions
- Spread the finely crushed graham crackers evenly on a plate.
- Wet the rim of a chilled martini glass with lime juice or water, then dip it into the crushed graham crackers, coating the rim.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, Key lime pie cream liqueur, Licor 43, and lime juice.
- Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Notes
- For an even more authentic Key lime pie experience, add a dollop of whipped cream on top before serving.
- If you don’t have Key lime pie cream liqueur, you can substitute it with vanilla liqueur and add extra lime juice to maintain the tartness.
