Refreshing but Risky: How to Make a Summer Poison Cocktail
When you think of summer cocktails, you probably imagine something bright, fruity, and packed with tropical flavors. This Summer Poison cocktail delivers all that and more! With its blend of coconut rum, blue curaçao, and pineapple juice, this drink is a beach vacation in a glass. And the strawberry puree gives it a beautiful, sunset-like swirl, making it as pretty to look at as it is to drink.
So, if you’re looking for the perfect summer sipper, Summer Poison is it. Let’s dive into how to make this deliciously dangerous drink!
Why You’ll Love This Summer Poison Cocktail
1. Tropical Vibes
The combination of coconut rum, blue curaçao, and pineapple juice gives this cocktail a truly tropical flavor that’s perfect for sipping poolside.
2. A Beautiful Cocktail
The vibrant blue from the blue curaçao contrasts beautifully with the red strawberry puree, creating a stunning drink that’s sure to impress your guests.
3. Quick and Easy
This cocktail comes together in just minutes with a few simple ingredients. No need for fancy bartending skills—just mix, pour, and enjoy!
Ingredients for Summer Poison
- 2 ounces coconut rum
- 1.5 ounces blue curaçao
- 1 ounce light rum
- ¾ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup strawberry puree
- Ice (enough to fill your glass)
How to Make Summer Poison
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
Start by filling your glass with ice. You’ll want enough ice to fill the glass about three-quarters of the way full, as this will help keep your cocktail perfectly chilled.
Step 2: Mix the Alcohols and Juice
In a shaker, combine the 2 ounces of coconut rum, 1.5 ounces of blue curaçao, 1 ounce of light rum, and ¾ cup of pineapple juice. Give it a good shake to mix all those tropical flavors together.
Step 3: Add Strawberry Puree
Pour ¼ cup of strawberry puree over the top of your cocktail. You can let it sink into the drink naturally for a gorgeous, swirled effect, or you can gently stir it in for a more even blend of flavors.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with a slice of fresh pineapple or a strawberry, if desired, and serve immediately. Your Summer Poison is ready to enjoy!
Tips for Making the Perfect Summer Poison Cocktail
1. Use Fresh Strawberry Puree
For the best flavor, use fresh strawberries to make your puree. Simply blend fresh strawberries until smooth, and you’re good to go. If you’re short on time, store-bought strawberry puree works too.
2. Adjust the Sweetness
If you like your cocktails a bit sweeter, you can add a splash of simple syrup to the mix. Likewise, if you prefer it a little more tart, a squeeze of lime juice can balance out the sweetness.
3. Go for Crushed Ice
While regular ice cubes work just fine, using crushed ice gives this cocktail an extra tropical feel and helps the flavors mix together more smoothly.
4. Layer for a Beautiful Look
For a stunning presentation, pour the blue curaçao and rum mixture first, then gently add the strawberry puree on top. This layering technique will create a beautiful contrast between the bright blue and red colors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Cocktail in Advance?
It’s best to make Summer Poison fresh, as the vibrant colors and flavors are at their peak right after mixing. However, you can prep the individual components (like the strawberry puree and rum mix) ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve.
What’s a Good Substitute for Blue Curaçao?
If you don’t have blue curaçao on hand, triple sec or any orange liqueur will work as a substitute. Just keep in mind that it will change the color of the cocktail.
Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version?
Yes! To make a mocktail version of Summer Poison, simply omit the alcohol and use coconut water or coconut-flavored soda in place of the rum. You’ll still get those tropical vibes without the booze.
Variations on the Summer Poison Cocktail
While this recipe is delicious as is, here are a few fun ways to switch things up:
1. Frozen Summer Poison
Turn this into a frozen cocktail by blending all the ingredients with ice. The result is a slushy, tropical drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
2. Citrus Twist
For a zesty twist, add a splash of orange juice or lime juice to the cocktail. The citrusy notes will complement the tropical flavors beautifully.
3. Mango Version
Swap out the strawberry puree for mango puree for a tropical mango version of this cocktail. The sweet, smooth mango pairs perfectly with the coconut and pineapple flavors.
4. Spicy Summer Poison
Add a few slices of jalapeño to your shaker for a spicy twist. The heat of the jalapeño will contrast nicely with the sweet, fruity flavors.
What to Serve with Summer Poison
Summer Poison pairs well with light, fresh foods that complement its tropical flavors. Here are a few snack ideas:
- Shrimp Cocktail: The zesty, tangy shrimp pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cocktail.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: Serve up a mix of pineapple, mango, and kiwi for a refreshing snack.
- Chips and Guacamole: A classic summer snack that complements the cocktail’s sweetness with a bit of savory goodness.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a summer barbecue, Summer Poison is the ultimate tropical cocktail to serve. With its vibrant colors and sweet, fruity flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something tropical and refreshing, give this Summer Poison cocktail a try—you won’t regret it!
Cheers!
Summer Poison
Ingredients
- 2 oz coconut rum
- 1 1/2 oz blue curaçao
- 1 oz light rum
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree
- ice enough to fill your glass
Instructions
- Start by filling your glass with ice. You’ll want enough ice to fill the glass about three-quarters of the way full.
- In a shaker, combine the 2 ounces of coconut rum, 1.5 ounces of blue curaçao, 1 ounce of light rum, and ¾ cup of pineapple juice.
- Pour ¼ cup of strawberry puree over the top of your cocktail.
- Garnish with a slice of fresh pineapple or a strawberry, if desired, and serve immediately. Your Summer Poison is ready to enjoy!