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Malibu Sunset Cocktail Recipe


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

For One Serving:

  • 2 oz Malibu coconut rum

  • 4 oz pineapple juice (preferably fresh or 100% juice)

  • 1 oz grenadine

  • Ice (enough to fill your glass)

  • Garnishes:

    • Maraschino cherry

    • Pineapple wedge


Instructions

Step 1: Fill the Glass with Ice
Start by filling a highball or hurricane glass with plenty of ice. This not only keeps your drink refreshingly cold but also helps maintain the stunning layered effect.

Step 2: Add the Malibu Coconut Rum
Pour 2 oz of Malibu coconut rum directly over the ice. The coconut aroma is instantly inviting and sets the tropical tone for the cocktail.

Step 3: Add the Pineapple Juice
Slowly pour in 4 oz of pineapple juice. The juice blends gently with the rum to form a golden tropical base. Fresh pineapple juice is best for vibrant flavor, but a good-quality store-bought version works well too.

Step 4: Pour the Grenadine (Carefully)
Using the back of a spoon or gently tilting the glass, slowly pour 1 oz of grenadine down the side of the glass. Because grenadine is heavier, it will sink to the bottom, creating a beautiful red-to-gold gradient effect that mimics a sunset.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Add a maraschino cherry on top and perch a fresh pineapple wedge on the rim of the glass. For extra flair, you can add a small cocktail umbrella or a slice of orange for a more dramatic tropical feel.

Optional Twist: If you want to give it a little fizz, top the drink with a splash of soda water or lemon-lime soda after adding the grenadine.

Notes

The key to achieving the iconic “sunset” look lies in the pour. Pour grenadine last and do so gently—its density allows it to sink, creating the layered look. Stirring the drink will blend the colors and flavors, so always serve unstirred if you want to keep the visual effect intact. It’s as much about the aesthetic as it is about the flavor, so treat it like cocktail art in a glass.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Sodium: 6 mg
  • Protein: 0.5g