This Pineapple Vanilla Rum Cocktail will transport you straight to the Caribbean! It’s perfectly sweet and tropical with rich vanilla undertones and a smooth, creamy finish. A simple, delicious cocktail that tastes just like dessert in a glass!
Back in my early 20’s I traveled to the Caribbean, to the Island of Dominica. I spent about a week there, living with a Dominican family, enjoying the sunshine and the culture the beauty of the Caribbean Sea.
I ate the most deliciously fresh tropical fruits, tried amazing new Caribbean dishes, and… I learned just how much the Caribbean people like their rum. I’m pretty sure I drank rum punch like it was going out of style… as did they. (I had to keep up with the natives, right?)
Well, ever since that trip I’ve had a special place in my heart for rum cocktails. And there’s something about this Pineapple Vanilla Breeze that brings me right back. A simple combination of Malibu rum, pineapple juice, and bourbon vanilla extract, it’s everything you’d want in a tropical drink, with a creamy sweetness and rich flavor of vanilla.
It’s the perfect well-balanced cocktail, which has me wondering. Are vanilla rum cocktails truly the way to go for a unique twist on your favorite classic rum cocktail!? Vanilla Mojito? Vanilla Piña Colada? Vanilla Rum Punch? It all sounds delicious to me!
what you’ll need for this recipe
This simple yet flavorful drink has a short but sweet ingredient list:
Rum – This drink starts with a base of rum. I used Malibu, which is a sweet coconut flavored rum. Substitute regular rum (light or dark) for more of a traditional rum taste.
Pineapple juice – I used 100% pineapple juice, but a pineapple-orange blend would also be delicious.
Bourbon vanilla extract – Just a splash of vanilla extract brings out the vanilla notes of the rum and has a big impact on the overall flavor of the drink.
Pineapple – A fresh pineapple wedge makes the perfect simple garnish.
Recipe Variations
- Add lime juice for a twist on a classic daiquiri
- Add vanilla syrup to emphasize the vanilla flavor profile
- Add any of your favorite flavored syrups
- Add a spoonful of crushed pineapple
- Use orange juice, cranberry juice, or any fruit juice for a fun flavor twist
- Add simple syrup for extra sweetness (particularly if you use regular rum)
- Substitute vodka for the rum OR make it a mocktail without alcohol
- Add a splash of cream for an extra creamy cocktail
- Add spices like a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon
- Use more or less vanilla to taste (find your perfect balance of flavors!)
how to make a pineapple vanilla rum cocktail
Combine the ingredients. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the Malibu, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract.
Shake. Shake well to chill.
Strain. Strain into a cocktail glass with ice cubes OR serve it up in a chilled martini glass.
Garnish. Garnish with fresh pineapple wedge.
make a pitcher of it
This cocktail is sure to be a hit among guests, so I would definitely recommend making a pitcher of it for easy entertaining! In a large glass pitcher, combine 4 cups pineapple juice, 2 cups Malibu, and 2 1/2 Tablespoons vanilla extract. Chill and serve over ice.
More Rum Cocktail Recipes
Rum Cocktails are guaranteed to make you feel like you’re on a beach vacation. Here are some of our favorite recipes to try!
Pineapple Vanilla Rum Cocktail
Ingredients
- 4 ounces pineapple juice
- 2 ounces Malibu Rum
- 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla extract
- 1 pineapple wedge for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine Malibu, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract.
- Shake well to chill.
- Strain into a cocktail glass filled with fresh ice OR serve it up in a martini glass.
- Garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge.
Notes
Recipe Variations
- Add lime juice for a twist on a classic daiquiri
- Add vanilla syrup to emphasize the vanilla flavor profile
- Add any of your favorite flavored syrups
- Add a spoonful of crushed pineapple
- Use orange juice, cranberry juice, or any fruit juice for a fun flavor twist
- Add simple syrup for extra sweetness (particularly if you use regular rum)
- Substitute vodka for the rum OR make it a mocktail without alcohol
- Add a splash of cream for an extra creamy cocktail
- Add spices like a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon
- Use more or less vanilla to taste (find your perfect balance of flavors!)
I knowww right, I actually sat on my balcony in the sunshine yesterday! So good! Didn’t spot my neighbours yet but hey, there’s still time. These sound delicious, just what I needed yesterday 😉
Ahaha, it is so true about the neighbours and the cold weather! I am giving my neighbours a ton of food tonight, but I would be so happy to receive a glass of this! And it sounds like my kind of drink.
I always wish I was closer with my neighbors, but it makes me nervous…I’ve had bad experiences. But this cocktail – I want one RIGHT NOW!
Ohhhh wow, I could totally see myself sipping on that cocktail alllllll summer long!
I will take two please! Yum!
I am dreaming of the beach just thinking of drinking one of these!
I’m so excited to finally see my neighborhood come to life again, too! This cocktail sounds delicious, Cathy! I love the pineapple flavor in here. Just perfect to welcome spring with!
Wow! This cocktail sounds amazing! I could totally see me sipping on this on our back deck. 😉 And I am in love with Nielsen-Massey’s vanilla bean paste! My fave.
This is MY kind of cocktail! I love Nielsen Massey!
Looks like the perfect Summery cocktail! Thanks for shaing!
I bet that vanilla makes a huge difference in taste! I cannot wait for warmer weather and a few of these drinks!
Man these sound so good and refreshing – unlike my neighbors. Some of them are a little sketch ???? – you’re lucky you’ve got great ones!
Love the addition of vanilla her! NM is hands downs my favorite brand. This cocktail is also totally calling my name!
This looks so good – and easy and refreshing!! Perfect for spring entertaining season!
This sounds fantastic! I can’t wait for summer cocktails!
I’m actually having cocktails with my neighbor, Adam, tomorrow! Guess what I’ll be bringing. Happy spring.
Ooh, this sounds so tropical and delicious!
putting vanilla extract in a drink. yes!!!!
Looks super fun!
Close knit neighborhoods are the BEST! We got one when we moved and I love it! I think I should celebrate with one of these cocktails!
Pour me a drink!! The vanilla sounds like the perfect addition!
Let’s be neighbors! 😉 I haven’t tried these vanillas but I hear they are a good quality type vanilla!
Yay for neighbors and a special yay for this drink! I’ll take two 🙂
I used to love drinking Malibu Rum and pineapple juice years ago! This looks delicious with the vanilla flavor — this is perfect for summer!
Do you have any video of that? I’d love to find out more
details.
Fantastic!! I made these for a holiday BBQ, they were a hit. The vanilla bourbon cuts the acid in the pineapple just right.