Description
The Zombie Cocktail is a legendary tiki drink that’s as daring as it is delicious. A tropical rum-based cocktail with fresh citrus, rich sweetness, and a sneaky kick, it’s perfect for parties or any occasion that calls for bold flavors and flair.
Ingredients
- 1 oz light rum
- 1 oz dark rum
- 1/2 oz overproof rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz papaya or passionfruit juice (optional)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz grenadine
- 1/2 oz falernum
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1-2 drops absinthe or Herbsaint (optional)
- Crushed ice
- Fresh mint sprig (for garnish)
- Orange slice (for garnish)
- Maraschino cherry (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and prep your garnishes: slice the lime and orange, and have fresh mint ready.
- In a cocktail shaker, add the light rum, dark rum, overproof rum, lime juice, pineapple juice, papaya or passionfruit juice (if using), simple syrup, grenadine, falernum, and Angostura bitters. Optionally, add a tiny splash of absinthe or Herbsaint.
- Fill the shaker with crushed ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a tall glass or tiki mug filled with crushed ice. The drink should have a lovely color and frosty appearance.
- Garnish with a mint sprig, an orange slice, and a maraschino cherry. For extra flair, float a bit of overproof rum on top and light it (if desired, and always with caution!) for a dramatic presentation.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the adventure in every sip!
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace the rums with more pineapple, papaya, and lime juice, adding a dash of spiced syrup or almond syrup for complexity.
- To keep the drink balanced, don’t overdo the absinthe—just a few drops are enough for the haunting, herbal note.
- For prep in advance, mix the liquid ingredients in a large pitcher and refrigerate. Shake or stir over ice when ready to serve.
